Unveiling Local Park Charms

A Guide to Local Des Moines Area Parks

The Des Moines metro area is blessed with a plethora of parks, each offering its own unique features and opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. Let's take a tour of some of the most notable parks in the area and explore what makes each one special.

1. Gray's Lake Park - 102 45th St, Des Moines, IA 50320

Gray's Lake Park is a beloved destination in Des Moines, known for its stunning lake views and recreational opportunities. Visitors can rent paddleboats or kayaks to explore the lake, or simply stroll along the scenic walking and biking trail that encircles it. The park also features picnic areas and green spaces perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.

2. Water Works Park - 2201 George Flagg Pkwy, Des Moines, IA 50321

Stretching along the banks of the Raccoon River, Water Works Park is a sprawling green space offering a peaceful retreat from the city. The park features ponds and water features, as well as extensive walking and biking trails that wind through wooded areas and along the riverbank. It's a great spot for picnics, birdwatching, or simply enjoying nature.

3. Raccoon River Park - 2500 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50265

Located in West Des Moines, Raccoon River Park is centered around the picturesque Blue Heron Lake. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming in the lake, or explore the park's network of walking and biking trails. With its serene natural beauty and abundance of recreational opportunities, Raccoon River Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The playground design focuses on Universal Design, welcoming children and families of all abilities to learn, play, and grow together.

4. Walnut Woods State Park - 3155 Walnut Woods Dr, West Des Moines, IA 50265

For a more immersive outdoor experience, head to Walnut Woods State Park. This scenic park offers several hiking trails that wind through dense forests and along the banks of Walnut Creek. Visitors can also explore historic sites within the park, including remnants of an old grist mill and Native American burial mounds.

5. Ashworth Park - 102 45th St, Des Moines, IA 50320

Ashworth Park is a hidden gem in the Des Moines metro area, offering a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors. The park features walking trails through wooded areas and around a small lake, as well as playgrounds and picnic areas perfect for families. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a day of outdoor fun.

6. Union Park - 715 Guthrie Ave, Des Moines, IA 50316

Union Park is steeped in history and offers a range of attractions for visitors of all ages. The park features a historic carousel, rose garden, and duck pond, as well as walking trails and open green spaces. It's a popular spot for picnics, family outings, and special events throughout the year.

7. Greenwood Park - 100 45th St, Des Moines, IA 50312

Greenwood Park is a vibrant community hub offering a range of recreational amenities and activities. The park features sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas, as well as walking trails and scenic overlooks. It's a great place to get active or simply relax and enjoy the outdoors.

8. Ewing Park - 5300 Indianola Ave, Des Moines, IA 50315

Ewing Park is the largest park in Des Moines, spanning over 1,300 acres of natural beauty. The park features wooded areas, open green spaces, and a variety of recreational facilities, including sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It's a popular destination for hiking, birdwatching, and outdoor events.

9. MacRae Park - 1021 Davis Ave, Des Moines, IA 50315

MacRae Park offers stunning views of downtown Des Moines and the Des Moines River. The park features walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas, as well as a historic stone shelter and scenic overlooks. It's a great spot for a leisurely walk or a peaceful afternoon in nature.

10. Easter Lake Park - 2830 Easter Lake Dr, Des Moines, IA 50320

Easter Lake Park is a hidden gem on the southeast side of Des Moines, offering a tranquil escape from the city. The park surrounds the scenic Easter Lake, where visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming. It also features hiking trails that offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding woodlands.

11. Sargent Park - 3500 E Douglas Ave, Des Moines, IA 50317

Sargent Park is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Des Moines, offering a serene setting for outdoor recreation. The park features walking trails through wooded areas, as well as open green spaces and a playground. It's a great spot for a quiet afternoon picnic or a leisurely stroll.

12. Fort Des Moines Park - 7200 SE 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50315

Fort Des Moines Park offers a glimpse into the area's history, with remnants of the old fort still visible within the park. The park features walking trails, open green spaces, and a playground, as well as interpretive signs that provide insight into the fort's significance. It's a great spot for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

13. Johnston Commons - 6050 Morningside Drive, Johnston, IA 50131

Johnston Commons is a vibrant community gathering space offering a range of recreational amenities and events. The park features walking trails, playgrounds, and open green spaces, as well as a splash pad and amphitheater. It's a popular spot for outdoor concerts, festivals, and family fun.

14. Ashby Park - 3200 38th St, Des Moines, IA 50310

This park offers a range of amenities to cater to visitors of all ages and abilities. Highlights include an accessible playground featuring two toddler bucket swings and two fully accessible swings. Additionally, there are tennis and pickleball courts for sports enthusiasts, as well as a splash pool for cooling off on hot days. For those looking to enjoy a picnic, there are numerous picnic tables, benches, and charcoal grills available. Other conveniences include a drinking fountain, restroom facilities, and ample parking, including off-street options. Visitors can also explore the park's open space and nature trail for a peaceful outdoor experience.

15. Tower Park - 4900 Hickman Rd, Des Moines, IA 50310

Tower Park is a hidden gem nestled along the Des Moines River, offering a tranquil escape from the city. The park features walking trails that wind through wooded areas and along the riverbank, as well as picnic areas and scenic overlooks. It's a great spot for birdwatching, photography, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature.

16. Birdland Park - 2100 Saylor Rd, Des Moines, IA 50313

Birdland Park is a tranquil oasis along the Des Moines River, offering stunning views and abundant wildlife. The park features walking trails that wind along the riverbank, as well as picnic areas and scenic overlooks. It's a great spot for birdwatching, photography, or simply enjoying the serenity of nature.

17. Prospect Park - 1225 Prospect Rd, Des Moines, IA 50310

Prospect Park offers panoramic views of downtown Des Moines and the surrounding countryside. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and open green spaces, as well as a historic stone shelter and scenic overlooks. It's a popular spot for outdoor events, family gatherings, and enjoying the beauty of the Iowa landscape.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat, a place to explore nature, or a vibrant community gathering space, the parks of the Des Moines metro area have something for everyone. So grab your walking shoes, pack a picnic, and get ready to discover the beauty and adventure waiting right in your own backyard.

This list could go on and on. For a more detailed list, please visit the Des Moines Parks Directory located here. For a list of county parks, check out the website here. Also, visit the Iowa Department of Natural Resources list of parks located here.