Raccoon River Park
As the "crown jewel" of West Des Moines, this 631-acre park features a 232-acre lake, swimming beach, and an inclusive playground. It is a premier destination for outdoor recreation, sports complexes, and scenic trail loops.
Park Features
- Picnic Shelters: 4 rentable shelters featuring grills for public use.
- Inclusive Playgrounds: Separate structures for ages 2-5 and 5-12.
- Sports: Softball complex (5 fields) and a full soccer complex.
- Restrooms: Available seasonally from April 15 to October 15.
- Trails: Access to a 3.2-mile lake loop and regional biking paths.
- Dog Park: Fenced, off-leash exercise area (permit required).
- Archery Facility: Dedicated range for target practice (permit required).
- Boathouse: Seasonal rentals for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards.
- Blue Heron Lake & Beach: Swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating.
- Nature Lodge: Multi-purpose rentable facility for events and education.
- Boat Ramp & Fishing Pier: Easy access for electric and manual watercraft.
- Athene Pedestrian Bridge: Scenic connection to the Walnut Woods State Park.
- Public Art: Unique installations integrated throughout the park landscape.
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