Were you looking for the best outdoor spaces and places for your dog? Check out the top dog parks in Des Moines and all they have to offer!
Des Moines, IA, is a great place to live if you're a pet parent. This city has tons of fun things to do with your dog. And with the weather getting nicer out, it's time for a little fresh air and sunshine with your furry best friend. So let's talk about dog parks.
If you're looking for a dog park in Des Moines, you've come to the right place! We'll give you a list of all the top places to take your pup where they can run around, blow off some steam, and play with other crazy canines. And we'll even tell you a little bit about each park and what features they have to offer.
Some dog parks just have water stations and waste stations. But others will go the extra mile and provide water features, hiking trails, canine agility equipment, picnic pavilions, and much more! So make sure to read the list below to find your new favorite dog park.
And if you're looking for other dog-friendly activities in Des Moines, we've got a list of those too! What about lunch? You can take your fur baby out for a doggy lunch date because there are many dog-friendly restaurants, bars, and breweries in Des Moines, IA. More and more restaurants are providing pet-friendly patios to well-behaved dogs. So your pooch can join you and your friends for a meal or a beer at your favorite eatery.
And while you're looking for places that can take care of all your dog's needs, don't forget about finding the best pet care possible for your precious pup. Click here to enter in your zip code, and we'll help you find the best dog walkers, cat sitters, pet groomers, and more... All in and around the city of Des Moines, IA.
But if you're ready to get outdoors and run around with your four-legged friend, check our list of top dog parks below.
The 12 Best Parks, Dog Parks, and Off-Leash Areas in Des Moines, IA:
17th Street Dog Park
Ames Dog Park
Ankeny Dog Park
Ewing Dog Park
Grandview Park
Gray's Lake Park
Kinship Brewing Company & Dog Park
Paws & Pints
Raccoon River Dog Park
Reno Memorial Dog Park
Riverwalk Dog Park
Windsor Heights Dog Park
17th Street Dog Park — 851 17th Ave SW, Altoona, IA 50009
17th Street Dog Park is located on the northeast side of Des Moines in the Altoona area. It is a fully fenced-in, off-leash dog park with lush green grass surrounded by beautiful evergreen trees. There are benches for the humans and lots of fun canine agility equipment. And there is a playground for the kiddos right outside of the dog park fence.
Ames Dog Park — 605 Billy Sunday Rd, Ames, IA 50010
Ames Dog Park is located north of Des Moines. This fully fenced-in, off-leash dog park offers off-street parking, a walking path, drink fountains, waste stations, biodegradable dog poop bags, water stations, benches, kiddie pools, and plenty of grass for your dog to run around on with their canine friends. There aren't many shade trees, but there are plenty of trees outside of the fenced-in area.
Ankeny Dog Park — 1155 SW Ankeny Rd, Ankeny, IA 50023
Ankeny Dog Park is a 7.5-acre dog park that is entirely fenced-in so that dogs can run around off-leash. This park also offers a half-acre pond for dogs to splash and swim in, plenty of green grass to run around, and separate fenced-in spaces for small and large dogs. You must register online for a dog park pass ahead of time. And once you purchase your yearly pass, you will receive a code to enter at the gate entrance. This helps to keep everyone safe.
Ewing Dog Park — 4660 Indianola Ave, Des Moines, IA 50320
Ewing Dog Park is a fully fenced-in, off-leash dog park. You will find some shade trees, benches for the humans, waste stations, and water stations. Outside the fenced-in space is a playground for the kids, a paved walking trail, and picnic pavilions with barbeque grills. The dog park has two separate sections; a 1-acre space for the small dogs and a 7-acre area for the large dogs. And this park is open from May through October.
Grandview Park — 3220 Easton Blvd, Des Moines, IA 50317
Grandview Park is a hidden gem with a vast open space that encourages dogs to exercise and play. Its unique feature is the scenic view it offers of the city skyline, making it a picturesque spot for evening walks.
Gray's Lake Park — 2101 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, IA 50315
Gray’s Lake Park is not exclusively a dog park, but it's incredibly dog-friendly. What makes it special is the beautiful lake and the opportunity for leashed walks along the well-maintained trails. Dogs can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, while owners can take in the stunning views and participate in various water activities. The park also hosts events throughout the year, which adds to its charm.
Paws & Pints — 6218 Willowmere Dr, Des Moines, IA 50321
Paws & Pints may be the most versatile spot in town! It's a dog park/restaurant/bar/daycare/dog spa and more! Paws & Pints is beloved by the pups and the pet parents in Des Moines since it opened in 2022. There is over 20,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor space. In nice weather, there is also 3.5 additional acres of natural grass! Humans can enjoy great food, drinks, TVs, WiFi, and much more. This spot is a must go!
Kinship Brewing Company & Dog Park — 255 NW Sunrise Dr, Waukee, IA 50263
Kinship Brewing Company is a brewery and dog park all in one! They actually call their dog park Lois Park and ask that everyone sign a waiver before using this dog park. Your dog may join you on the outdoor patio space while you enjoy some great beer and pub food. Or they can play with the other dogs inside the fenced-in Lois Park off-leash space.
This dog park is a half-acre in size and has rock features, canine agility equipment, waste stations, water stations, and plenty of human seating. Lois Park dog park does require an affordable membership fee to help maintain the park. This bar and dog park is open Monday - Friday from 3 pm - 10 pm, Saturday from 11 am - 11 pm, and Sunday from 11 am - 9 pm.
Raccoon River Dog Park — 2500 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50265
Raccoon River Dog Park is located within Raccoon River Park. The park at large offers a softball complex, nature lodge, soccer fields, restrooms, picnic shelters, beach, playground, and more! The dog park is fully fenced-in with plenty of shade trees and does require a permit to be purchased ahead of time online. Make sure to bring your own water and dog water bowl. And if your dog enjoys going for a stroll through the woods, you can walk them on a leash on the nature trail.
Reno Memorial Dog Park — 3325 Hubbell Ave, Des Moines, IA 50317
Reno Memorial Dog Park is a fully fenced-in, off-leash dog park that is 4 acres in size. This park has plenty of green grass, shade trees, picnic tables, and benches. This peaceful dog park also provides water stations, waste stations, and a paved half-mile walking trail throughout. And this park is open daily from 6 am to 10 pm.
Riverwalk Dog Park — 1111 Illinois St, Des Moines, IA 50314
Riverwalk Dog Park is a 3-acre, fully fenced-in, off-leash dog park with picnic tables, benches, portable restrooms, and off-street parking. Permits are required for this dog park and can be obtained online. The annual cost is only $20 and can be used at Ewing Dog Park, Reno Memorial Dog Park, and Riverwalk Dog Park. This dog park has two separate fenced-in areas for small and large dogs, plus waste stations and easy access to the Principal Riverwalk and nearby trails. Just make sure to bring your own water and bowl.
Windsor Heights Dog Park — 6601 Center St, Windsor Heights, IA 50324
Windsor Heights Dog Park is a fully fenced-in, off-leash dog park surrounded by wooded areas and has plenty of shade trees. You'll find picnic tables, benches, waste stations, and canine agility equipment. Just make sure to bring your own water and dog water bowl. There is also a paved walking trail outside the fenced-in space where you can walk your pup on a leash.
Dog-Friendly Des Moines
Des Moines, IA, has more than enough gorgeous dog parks to choose from, with an array of different features and amenities at each one. Try them all one by one until you find your pup's new favorite stomping grounds. And then you both can enjoy a little fresh air, sunshine, and the chance to make a few new friends.
For more great articles about dog-friendly activities and pet-parenting advice, check out the Blog at LocalPetCare.com.