EXPLORE: Make a splash

By Sofia Legaspi Dickens

Cool off with water activities at these local parks and recreation areas.

LEDGES STATE PARK
1515 P Ave., Madrid
iowadnr.gov

A must-see nature destination for all Iowans, Ledges State Park includes a four-mile trail system offering scenic views from 100-foot-tall sandstone ledges overlooking the Des Moines River. Streamwalk Peas Creek, usually ankle-deep during the summer, as it runs through a stunning sandstone gorge along Canyon Road.

RACCOON RIVER PARK
2500 Grand Ave., West Des Moines
wdm.iowa.gov/government/parks-recreation

Iowa may be landlocked, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a day at the beach. The 500-foot-long beach at Raccoon River Park overlooks the 232-acre Blue Heron lake. The Raccoon River Boathouse opens for the season on May 27.

SEVEN OAKS RECREATION
1086 222nd Drive, Boone
sevenoaksrec.com

Float and paddle down seven miles of the Des Moines River and explore numerous sandbars and scenery along the way. You’ll pass under the 185-foot-tall Kate Shelley High Bridge — one of the world’s longest and highest double-track railway bridges. River floats take between two to four hours.

GRAY’S LAKE PARK
2101 Fleur Drive, Des Moines
dsm.city

Gray’s Lake Park allows visitors to rent various watercraft in the heart of Des Moines. Offerings include two- and three-person canoes, double kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, four-person pedal boats and row boats. Rentals and concession stands are located at the Christine Hensley Terrace on the southeast corner of the park (all rentals) and on the beach on the north side (paddleboards only).

SAYLORVILLE LAKE
6170 N.W. Polk City Drive, Polk City
saylorvillelakemarina.com

For even bigger watercraft rentals, head to the Saylorville Lake Marina. Choose between pontoons and tritoons, which can accommodate up to 14 passengers, and spend a day cruising and relaxing on the lake.

BIG CREEK STATE PARK
8794 N.W. 125th Ave., Polk City
iowadnr.gov

Near Saylorville Lake, you’ll find Big Creek State Park and the largest beach in Iowa’s state park system. Swim, fish or picnic — or take advantage of the boat and bike rentals available at the beach concessionaire.