There’s no better way to beat the summer heat and cool off than by taking a refreshing dip in a nearby lake. Des Moines is fortunate enough to be surrounded by beautiful lakes, ponds, and rivers, offering plenty of opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and other water activities. In this guide, we will take you on a tour of some of the best lakes and beaches in the Des Moines area. So, grab your sunscreen, pack a picnic, and get ready to jump in the water with us!
For even more ideas on things to do in Des Moines this summer, be sure to check out our Summer Fun Guide and Events Calendar.
Here are some spots where you can take a dip in a lake in the Des Moines area:
Swim Beaches in Des Moines
Big Creek State Lake in Big Creek State Park, 8794 NW 125th Avenue, Polk City, IA.
Blue Heron Lake in Raccoon River Park, 2500 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines, IA.
Gray’s Lake in Gray’s Lake Park, 2121 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA.
Lake Ahquabi in Lake Ahquabi State Park, 16510 118th Avenue Indianola, IA.
Rock Creek Lake in Rock Creek State Park, 5627 Rock Creek East, Kellogg, IA.
Tips: Be sure to check out the park website for hours, admissions and for beach closures.
Boat Rentals in Des Moines
Big Creek State Lake in Big Creek State Park, 8794 NW 125th Avenue, Polk City, IA.
Blue Heron Lake in Raccoon River Park, 2500 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines, IA.
Gray’s Lake in Gray’s Lake Park, 2121 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA.
Lake Ahquabi in Lake Ahquabi State Park, 16510 118th Avenue Indianola, IA.
Saylorville Lake Marina at Saylorville Lake, 6170 NW Polk City Drive, Polk City, IA.
Tips: You will want to be familiar with all the Iowa boating rules and regulations that apply to the type of boat you will be renting.
Fishing Spots in Des Moines
Annett Nature Center and Park, 15565 118th Avenue, Indianola, IA.
Copper Creek Lake Park, 4390 E. University Avenue, Pleasant Hill, IA.
Maffitt Reservoir in Water Works Park, 2201 George Flagg Pkwy, Des Moines, IA.
Thomas Mitchell Park, 4250 NE 108 Street, Mitchellville, IA.
Westside Park, 599 SW State Street, Ankeny, IA.
Tips: All Iowa residents and nonresidents 16 years and older are required to have a valid fishing license on their person while fishing. You can purchase a fishing license on-line or from a licensed vendor.
Water Skiing & Wakeboarding, Sailing and Scuba Diving in Des Moines
Water Skiing and Wakeboarding
Saylorville Lake, 6170 NW Polk City Drive, Polk City, IA.
Lake Red Rock, 811 146th Avenue, Knoxville, IA.
Sailing
Saylorville Yacht Club Sail School provides fun safe sailing instruction for people of all ages in the Des Moines area at Gray’s Lake Park, Big Creek State Park, and Saylorville Lake.
Scuba Diving
STC Dive Center offers Snorkeling and SCUBA Instruction at local pools and lakes for the open water portion of training.
Where does your family like to jump in a lake during the warm summer months?
