Des Moines, Washington, is located along the Puget Sound. This city, located just south of Seattle, boasts an impressive array of parks that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers alike. With its stunning waterfront views, lush greenery, and diverse recreational opportunities, Des Moines is a destination that invites exploration and relaxation. Whether one seeks a peaceful retreat or an active adventure, the parks in Des Moines offer something for everyone.
The city’s commitment to preserving natural spaces and enhancing community well-being is evident in its well-maintained parks. From sandy beaches to forested trails, Des Moines’ parks provide a perfect backdrop for picnics, hiking, and family gatherings. This article will delve into some of the city’s most amazing parks, highlighting their unique features and the experiences they offer.
Saltwater State Park
Location: 25205 8th Place S, Des Moines, WA 98198
Saltwater State Park is a stunning 137-acre park that offers visitors a blend of forested campsites, sandy beaches, and breathtaking views of Puget Sound. This park is a popular spot for camping and various recreational activities such as hiking, swimming, and scuba diving. The park features an artificial underwater reef that attracts divers eager to explore its vibrant marine life.
Visitors can enjoy the park’s expansive beach area, wading in the shallows, building sandcastles, or exploring tide pools filled with fascinating sea creatures. For those interested in hiking or biking, Saltwater State Park offers several trails that wind through lush forests and along scenic waterfronts. With picnic shelters available for reservation and numerous picnic tables scattered throughout the park, it is an ideal location for family gatherings and outdoor events.
Des Moines Beach Park
Location: 22030 Cliff Ave SDes Moines, Washington 98198
Des Moines Beach Park is a beloved local destination known for its beautiful sandy beach and stunning views of the Olympic Mountains. This park provides a perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. The expansive grassy areas are perfect for picnics or simply relaxing while enjoying the fresh sea breeze.
One of the highlights of Des Moines Beach Park is its walking path along the shoreline, which offers breathtaking views of the water and surrounding landscape. The park also features a playground for children and ample parking facilities. Seasonal events and festivals often take place here, making it a vibrant hub of community activity throughout the year.
Kiddie Park (Des Moines City Park)
Location: 2323 Kent Des Moines Rd, Des Moines, WA 98198
Kiddie Park is designed for young children and families seeking a safe and engaging play environment. This small but charming park features a variety of play structures that cater to different age groups. The surrounding greenery provides shade and a pleasant atmosphere for parents watching their children play.
In addition to play areas, Kiddie Park offers picnic tables where families can enjoy lunch together amidst nature. The nearby walking trails allow for strolls while taking in the sights and sounds of this inviting space. For families with young children seeking a fun day out, Kiddie Park is an excellent choice.
Water Tower Park
Location: 504 S 208th StDes Moines, Washington 98198
Water Tower Park is known for its unique feature: an old water tower that has become a local landmark. This park offers panoramic views of the surrounding area from the tower’s hill. Visitors can enjoy walking paths that wind through beautifully landscaped gardens while taking in scenic vistas.
The park also includes picnic areas with tables and grills for public use. It is a great spot for community gatherings or quiet afternoons enjoying nature. Water Tower Park’s combination of history and natural beauty makes it a must-visit location in Des Moines.
Barnes Creek Trail
The Barnes Creek Nature Trail begins as a wide, unpaved path that follows the course of Barnes Creek, passing near residential backyards for a short distance. After less than a quarter mile, the trail briefly transitions to a sidewalk along 15th Ave S before re-entering the woods.
At about half a mile in, the trail turns left into a small stand of trees and eventually leads to S 223rd St. Hikers must navigate some county roads to reconnect with the trail. This discontinuity raises questions about potential creek crossings that may have hindered a continuous path.
Continuing on, the trail crosses a bridge and gains elevation. Its surface consists of forest litter and wood chips, although some underlying fabric is exposed. The trail concludes approximately 1.4 miles from the start, where it meets a parking area on S 216th St.
From this point, hikers can access a branch of the Des Moines Creek Trail, which begins as a paved path before transitioning to dirt as it descends towards the creek. This section allows for further exploration of the area’s natural beauty, providing an easy and scenic hiking experience.
Des Moines’ parks are more than just green spaces; they embody a commitment to community well-being and environmental stewardship. Each park offers unique experiences—from tranquil retreats by the water’s edge to vibrant playgrounds filled with laughter—catering to diverse interests within this dynamic city.
Exploring these parks enhances physical health and fosters connections among residents who gather together amidst nature’s beauty—creating lasting memories along the way. For locals and visitors alike seeking outdoor adventures or peaceful escapes from daily life—Des Moines’ amazing parks provide endless opportunities waiting to be discovered!
Sources: parks.wa.gov, seattlesouthside.com Des Moines Beach Park, seattlesouthside.com Kiddie City Park, seattlesouthside.com Water Tower Park, wta.org
Header Image Source: seattlesouthside.com
