Raccoon River Park: West Des Moines' Natural Oasis
Explore nature, recreation, and community at Raccoon River Park in West Des Moines, Iowa's 631-acre urban oasis.
Raccoon River Park, a 631-acre urban park in West Des Moines, Iowa, centers around the 232-acre Blue Heron Lake, offering diverse recreational activities and natural beauty. From hiking trails and a swimming beach to sports complexes and a nature lodge, it's a vibrant hub for community and outdoor enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Raccoon River Park
- 2500 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, Iowa, 50265, US
- +1515-222-3444
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit the park during the fall for stunning views of the vibrant falling leaves along the trail.
- Borrow a free life jacket from the loaner station at the beach for safe swimming during the summer.
- Bring your dog to the fenced-in dog park, but remember to purchase a day pass or annual permit.
- Check out the Nature Lodge for environmental education programs and rental opportunities.
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. Raccoon River Park will be on your left after approximately 0.7 miles, at 2500 Grand Ave. There are no fees associated with walking to the park.
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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. Raccoon River Park will be on your left at 2500 Grand Ave. A single fare for a short trip on public transport is approximately $1.75.
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Driving
Raccoon River Park is located at 2500 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50265. From I-285, take exit 1 for Grand Avenue. Head south on Grand Avenue. The park will be on your left. There are plenty of parking lots available. Parking is free.
Discover more about Raccoon River Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
West Des Moines Iowa
3.1 km
Discover West Des Moines: Where history meets modern attractions, from Valley Junction's charm to Jordan Creek's shopping and Raccoon River Park's nature.
1908 Draught House
4.1 km
West Des Moines' top spot for sports, beer, and good times. Catch the game with friends and enjoy a wide selection of brews and tasty food.
West Glen Town Center
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Des Moines Funny Bone
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Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines
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Witmer House
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El Barco Méxican Restaurant
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Cobblestone Marketplace
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Mahnke House
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Middlesex Plat Historic District
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Girl Scouts
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Hidalgo Mexican Bar and Grill
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Des Moines University
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Spice Pot - Breads & Biryani
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Color Works Tattoo
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Taste of the Junction Music Festival
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Brown's Woods
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The Operating Room West Des Moines
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Des Moines Water Works Park
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Des Moines Art Center
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Des Moines Children's Museum
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Rose the mannequin
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Salisbury House & Gardens
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Blue Zoo Aquarium Des Moines
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Gray's Lake Park
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Terrace Hill Historic Site
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Essential places to dine
Fiesta Mexican Restaurant
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The Hall DSM
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Grand Junction Bar & Grill
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G Mig's 5th Street Pub
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Chuck Celsi's Tavern Restaurant
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Paula's Cafe
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Heavenly Asian Cuisine & Lounge
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Cooper's on 5th
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St. Kilda Collective
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El Toreado Restaurant Bar & Grill . EP True
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Valley Pub
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Maxie's Supper Club
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Fire Creek
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Metro Market Clothing Boutique
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Cindy's Boutique in Valley Junction
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MintL.A. Boutique
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A Okay Antiques
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Atomic Garage Valley Junction
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MoMere
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Happy DSM
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Ladder 13
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The Irish
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The Keg Stand
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Bradley's Inc
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The Ridgemont
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Tapz Pub
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tapz Pub in Clive, IA, where delicious grill favorites and refreshing drinks meet camaraderie.
Down Under Bar & Grill
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The Flying Moose
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