Raccoon river annex shangra la

For those in Iowa seeking an exceptional outdoor experience without venturing far from the comforts of the Des Moines metropolitan area, Raccoon River Park stands as a true gem. Often referred to as the "crown jewel" of the West Des Moines parks system, this expansive 631-acre park is a dynamic hub for recreation, nature appreciation, and community engagement. While the provided name "Raccoon river annex shangra la" might sound like a secluded, hidden retreat, it seems to refer to a more informal or local designation within the much larger and well-known Raccoon River Park.

Raccoon River Park offers a remarkable blend of active recreational facilities and serene natural areas, all centered around the beautiful 232-acre Blue Heron Lake. It's a place where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature, engage in invigorating sports, or simply relax with family and friends. The park's diverse offerings make it a suitable destination for a wide variety of interests, from avid birdwatchers and serious athletes to families looking for a fun day out.

The park's history is rooted in its natural landscape. Originally a farmstead, the area was later purchased by Martin Marietta in the mid-1940s for mining operations, which eventually created the basin for Blue Heron Lake. In 1967, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources acquired the area, and later partnered with the City of West Des Moines to develop it into the incredible park it is today. This transformation highlights a commitment to providing quality outdoor spaces for the public, ensuring that this urban natural resource thrives for generations to come.

Raccoon River Park is strategically located in West Des Moines, Iowa, making it highly accessible for residents of Des Moines and the surrounding communities. Its address is:

H894+9C, Des Moines, IA 50321, USA (This appears to be a Google Plus Code, which translates to a specific geographical point within the park.)

For easier navigation, the general administrative address for Raccoon River Park is often listed as:

2500 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines, IA 50265

The park is easily reached via major roadways in the West Des Moines area. It's bordered by the Raccoon River to the south and east, and is in proximity to other significant natural areas like Walnut Woods State Park and Brown's Woods. This central location within the metro area ensures that a refreshing outdoor escape is always just a short drive away, providing a quick respite from urban life. The park is generally open from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM daily, allowing ample time for various activities.

Raccoon River Park provides a comprehensive array of services and facilities to enhance the visitor experience, catering to diverse needs and activities.

• Swimming Beach: A dedicated swimming beach on Blue Heron Lake is a popular spot during warmer months. The beach is open Memorial Day through Labor Day, from 10:30 AM until sunset.
• Beach Wheelchair Program: To ensure inclusivity, the park offers specialized beach-friendly wheelchairs for free rental, allowing individuals with mobility challenges to enjoy the beach and water.
• Boathouse & Rentals: A state-of-the-art boathouse provides restrooms and offers rentals for canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards, providing easy access to Blue Heron Lake.
• Picnic Shelters: Four open-air picnic shelters are available along the north end of Blue Heron Lake. These can be reserved for private use from April 15th to October 15th, making them ideal for family gatherings or events.
• Nature Lodge: The Raccoon River Park Nature Lodge is a versatile facility used for Parks & Recreation programs and is also available for rent for various events like weddings, family reunions, and business meetings.
• Modern Restrooms: Clean and accessible restrooms are located throughout the park, including at the boathouse and adjacent to picnic shelters and playgrounds.
• Softball Complex: A five-field, tournament-quality softball complex hosts adult softball and kickball leagues, as well as various tournaments.
• Archery Facility: The park boasts Iowa's first 12-lane archery facility with targets up to 40 yards, requiring permits for use.

Raccoon River Park is rich in natural features and recreational highlights that make it a premier destination for outdoor activities in central Iowa.

• Blue Heron Lake: The centerpiece of the park, this 232-acre lake is perfect for non-motorized boating, fishing, and swimming. Water quality is regularly monitored for safety.
• Multi-Use Trail System: The park features a 3.2-mile crushed rock/asphalt nature trail that loops around Blue Heron Lake, winding between the lake and the Raccoon River. This trail is perfect for walking, running, and biking, offering a natural experience rare in an urban setting.
• Fishing: Blue Heron Lake is home to various fish species, including crappie, bluegill, bullheads, catfish, carp, bass, and walleye, offering excellent fishing opportunities.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park's diverse habitats, including densely wooded bottomland along the Raccoon River, marshy areas, and grasslands, support over 180 confirmed bird species, making it a fantastic spot for birdwatching.
• Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds are available, providing engaging and safe play areas for children.
• Dog Park: A dedicated dog park allows canine companions to enjoy the outdoors.
• Seasonal Ice Rink: During the winter months, the park sometimes offers a seasonal ice rink, adding to its year-round appeal.
• Proximity to Raccoon River: While direct interaction with the Raccoon River within the park may be limited in some areas, its proximity provides a natural backdrop and contributes to the park's ecological richness.
• Future Developments: There are approved proposals for enhancements, such as a pedestrian bridge connecting the park with Walnut Woods State Park, further expanding the recreational network.

For more information about Raccoon River Park and its facilities, you can contact the West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department.

Address: 2500 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines, IA 50265

Phone: 515-222-3444 (West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Administrative Office)

Boathouse Phone: 515-440-4787

Email: ParkRec@wdm.iowa.gov

You can also visit the official West Des Moines Parks & Recreation website for detailed information on programs, facility rentals, and park updates.

Raccoon River Park is an exceptional and indispensable resource for locals in West Des Moines and the greater Des Moines metropolitan area. What might be informally known as "Shangri-La" to some, is truly a slice of paradise that offers a comprehensive outdoor experience right in their backyard. Its strategic location means that residents can easily access a vast array of recreational opportunities without the need for long drives or extensive planning, making it perfect for spontaneous outings or regular visits.

The park's diverse offerings cater to every age and interest, ensuring that there's always something to do for individuals, families, and groups. From the invigorating experience of paddling on Blue Heron Lake and casting a line for fish, to the peaceful enjoyment of walking or biking on well-maintained trails, Raccoon River Park promotes a healthy and active lifestyle. The presence of a dedicated swimming beach, complete with accessibility features, ensures that everyone in the community can enjoy the water safely.

For families, the playgrounds and open spaces provide endless opportunities for children to play and explore. Sports enthusiasts benefit from top-tier facilities like the softball and archery complexes, fostering community engagement through organized leagues and events. Even those simply seeking tranquility will find solace in the park's natural areas, perfect for quiet contemplation or wildlife observation.

The continuous efforts of the West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department to maintain and enhance these facilities, coupled with their commitment to water quality monitoring and accessibility, underscore the park's value as a community asset. Raccoon River Park is not just a place to visit; it’s a vital component of the local lifestyle, providing a convenient, beautiful, and engaging environment for Iowans to relax, recreate, and connect with nature. It truly is a local Shangri-La, offering a slice of natural paradise within an urban setting.

Raccoon river annex shangra la

H894+9C, Des Moines, IA 50321, USA