Athene North Shore Recreation Area

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Athene North Shore Recreation Area

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Accessible. Welcoming. Recreation. Fish, boat, swim or simply play knowing you have access and support to do so fully.

Those are the guiding principles that are driving Polk County Conservation’s efforts to create the most universally designed waterfront in Iowa – maybe even America. This will be a place where people of all ages and abilities can feel the spray of water on their face and the soft sand between their fingers or toes. The Athene North Shore Recreation Area is where you can enjoy nature on your own terms – not in spite of your limitations, but in full acceptance and celebration of them.

10/29/2026

Now that the scorching heat of summer has subsided, it's time to focus on your autumn outdoor activities!

Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll with friends or an invigorating multi-mile bike ride, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors and get excited. According to the University of Vermont Health, walking outside can enhance your circadian rhythm, improve your sleep, boost your emotional well-being, and walking with friends is a fantastic way to strengthen social connections.

Plan your next adventure at Easter Lake Park where you can enjoy the views and boost your mood.

10/27/2026

Reminder, water is shut off for the winter at Easter Lake Park.

The main restroom building will be closed for the winter months, the all-season restroom on the North side of the concessions building will remain open.

10/23/2026

Colorful lights and engaging sounds invite kids to play this dynamic back-and-forth game, fostering social skills and hand-eye coordination. Check out the Pulse Table Tennis at Athene North Shore Recreation Area today!

10/18/2026

Throw back to hosting Polk County Senior Services and a wonderful group of seniors for Senior Fishing Day at the lake in collaboration with Polk County Conservation Environmental Education.

Fishing at Athene North Shore Recreation Area is the best ❤️

Image description: series of four images of seniors fishing at Easter Lake Park.

10/14/2026

Get into the spooky season by learning about hungry plants with the Greater Des Moines BOOtanical Garden! Carnivorous plants have adapted to survive nutrient-poor environments by trapping and digesting insects and small animals. Learn about different carnivorous plants, how they hunt, and their importance in nature.

When: October 21, 1-2pm
Where: Easter Lake Event Center
Ages: 12+
This event is free and no registration required.

Image description: solid blue background with text on top that says "Older Wiser Livelier Seniors, Carnivorous Plants with" and the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden logo below. A cut out image of a Venus Flytrap in the bottom left corner.

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

10/09/2026

Fossils are a great way to learn more about the past, so why not have some fun with them?

Learn from a naturalist about some of Iowa’s fossils and geological past before a hands-on fossil activity. Come with curiosity and leave with some fun fossil facts!

When: October 17 from 10am to 11am
Where: Easter Lake Event Center
No registration required and all ages welcome!

Image description: graphic of a dark blue background with orange large text that says "Fossil Fun" below in white text "at Athene North Shore Recreation Area. October 17, 10am - 11am, No registration, all ages welcome".

10/04/2026

A new school year has started, which means a new year of high school and college seniors. Be ahead of the crowd and book your graduation party at Easter Lake Event Center.

With views of the lake, accessible parking and access, and a kitchenette to help host, Easter Lake is the perfect place to celebrate your accomplishment!

Click the link in the comments to book the Easter Lake Event Center!

Image Description: inside of the Easter lake Event Center, with a group of chairs and tables on one side and three large windows with a view of Easter lake beach.

10/01/2026

Take a walk, stroll, or ride across the pedestrian bridge this fall. Watch as the leaves start to change and reflect across the expansive Easter Lake.

Image description: fall foliage surrounding the red/brown colored Pedestrian Bridge over Easter Lake.

09/29/2026

Kids can stretch, breathe, and grow, right alongside nature.

Polk County Conservation invites children ages 8–11 to a playful yoga class designed to build strength, balance, coordination, and confidence through fun games, creative sequences, and supportive partner poses. Participants will also learn healthy ways to manage stress and practice kindness, all while spending meaningful time outdoors. Children should bring a yoga mat or clean beach towel.
To ensure a free and comfortable space, parents are asked to remain on-site but are welcome to explore the Nature Center and outdoor areas during the program.

When: October 10 at 10am
Where: Jester Park Nature Center
Registration required by Oct. 9, register at the link in the comments.
Cost: $5 | Ages 8–11

09/29/2026

Have you checked out the playgrounds at Easter Lake Park near shelter 1 and 5? They're perfect for families looking to enjoy a fun day outdoors! With equipment for all ages, including swings, slides, and climbing structures, kids can engage in imaginative play.

Whether you're picnicking or relaxing in the shade, these playgrounds keep little ones entertained.

We'd love to hear your favorite memories from these playgrounds!

Address

2883 E Watrous Avenue
Des Moines, IA
50320

Website

https://maps.app.goo.gl/TKjVRRbifDUcuAQd6, http://NorthShoreRecArea.org/

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