Raccoon River Park: West Des Moines' Natural Oasis
Explore nature and recreation at Raccoon River Park in West Des Moines, offering trails, water activities, sports, and family fun.
Raccoon River Park, a 631-acre urban park in West Des Moines, Iowa, centers around the expansive Blue Heron Lake, offering a wide array of recreational activities and natural beauty. Once a mining site, the park has been transformed into a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
A brief summary to Raccoon River Park
- 2500 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, Iowa, 50265, US
- +1515-222-3444
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-10 pm
- Thursday 7 am-10 pm
- Friday 7 am-10 pm
- Saturday 7 am-10 pm
- Sunday 7 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Bring your swimsuit and beach gear to enjoy a refreshing dip in Blue Heron Lake during the summer months.
- Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard at the boathouse for a leisurely exploration of Blue Heron Lake.
- Take advantage of the park's extensive trail system for a scenic walk, run, or bike ride around the lake.
- Visit the all-inclusive playground, a 52,000 square foot wonderland, designed for children of all abilities.
- Check the park's event calendar for festivals, sports tournaments, and other community gatherings.
Getting There
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Walking
From West Des Moines City Hall at 4200 Mills Civic Pkwy, head west on Mills Civic Parkway for about 0.5 miles until you reach Grand Avenue. Turn left onto Grand Avenue. Continue for approximately 0.7 miles. Raccoon River Park will be on your left at 2500 Grand Ave. There are no sidewalks for a portion of Grand Avenue, so use caution. There is no cost for walking.
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Public Transport
From the West Des Moines Public Library at 4000 Mills Civic Pkwy, walk to the bus stop at Mills Civic Parkway and 50th Street. Take Bus Route 3 towards Valley West Mall. Get off at the stop near 50th Street and Grand Avenue. Walk south on Grand Avenue for about 0.5 miles to 2500 Grand Ave. Raccoon River Park will be on your left. A single ride fare on DART is $2.50.
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Driving
Raccoon River Park is located at 2500 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50265. From I-35, take the IA-28/US-69 exit. Head north on IA-28/US-69/S.E. 14th St. Turn left onto E Army Post Rd. Turn right onto S 68th St. Continue onto Grand Ave. The park will be on your right. There are multiple parking lots available throughout the park. Parking is free.
Discover more about Raccoon River Park
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