Raccoon River Park has a playground right next to the beach, which is perfect for summer fun. The park got a new playground in 2023.
Blue Heron Lake is 232 acres. The beach is open Memorial Day through Labor Day from 10:30 am until sunset. In addition to swimming, you can rent canoes, kayaks and paddleboards at the Raccoon River Park Boathouse.
In the swimming area, the water is quite shallow over halfway out, which is perfect for little kids. Water quality tests are conducted approximately every 3 weeks between Memorial Day and Labor Day with results posted on the City of West Des Moines website.
There are picnic tables scattered around, some of which are shaded. There are also shelters with picnic tables available. Restrooms are very close to the parking lot and playground area.
