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Raccoon River Park/Sprayground/Beach/Dog park is a huge park with lots to offer – the playground has a unique ship shape, sand pit, and several structures. The trail going around the lake is over 3 miles long, and a mix of crushed rock and pavement. There are lots of wildflowers and wildlife to see along the trail, come back and cool off at the swimming beach.
Information:
Name: Raccoon River Park/Sprayground/Beach/Dog park
Address: 2500 Grand Avenue West Des Moines, IA 50265
Type: Places to play, get wet, hike, and take your dog
Bathrooms: Yes
Shade: Yes, shaded shelter and partially shaded trail
Playground: Yes
Trails: Yes, gravel and partially paved
Water: Yes, Blue Heron Lake/Beach and (currently closed) sprayground
Other notes: Sprayground is CLOSED/broken in 2016. Separate toddler playground, climbing net, sand pit. There is a fishing pier, boat ramp, and specific swimming beach. Reserve-able shelter. Soccer complex, softball complex, and a 3.2 crushed rock trail around the lake. Dog park and archery facility.
Official Website: http://www.wdm.iowa.gov/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/42/1433
DSMOF Blog posts:
Other things nearby of note:
If you’re looking for other places to get outside, check back-in with the interactive map!
Pictures:
[Picture courtesy of West Des Moines Parks & Rec}
Have you been here? Leave a comment and let people know what you think!