Park and Recreation - In and On the Water

Quick Links

Main Parking Lot Closed at Dog Park
If you are heading out to the Ewing Dog Park, use the McKinley Ave parking lot for access. Road construction has closed the main lot along Indianola Avenue. Please use the temporary bridge built across Yeader Creek to access the dog park while the permanent bridge is underway.
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Pool Passes
Passes may ONLY be purchased at the Park and Recreation Department Administrative Office, located at 3226 University Avenue, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Click below for more info.
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Rate Info
2012 Native Plant Sale
Native Landscaping uses less water, less chemicals and is lower maintenance reducing harmful impacts on our urban ponds, streams and wildlife. Visit Gray's Lake and talk to the experts on how to choose native plants suitable for different types of sites from rain gardens to dry areas. Visit to buy or sign-up to volunteer at parksvolunteer@dmgov.org
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Info to plan your trip
We've Moved!
Please Note! Our New Address is:
3226 University Ave Des Moines, IA 50311
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Contact Us
Have More Fun for Less Money
Greater Des Moines Recreational Activity Scholarship Program(GRASP) is the program formerly known as “Experience Greater Des Moines.” The GRASP card is your ticket to reduced costs for Park and Recreation programs, as well as other community activities and programs. Income guidelines do apply.
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Get Your GRASP Card
Birding Basics
Wednesdays through May 25, lunch hour basic birding sessions will meet either at the beach or in the southeast parking lot for viewing of songbirds including warblers, vireos, thrushes, and sparrows. Binoculars are encouraged, though a few extra pairs will be provided if you forget yours. This spring program is free and open to all ages.
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More Info
Canoeing Classes
Get out and enjoy summer by participating in canoeing classes.The classes, held at Grays Lake and local rivers, will teach the basics of canoeing including basic strokes, small boat safety and much more. These classes are designed for both beginners and intermediate skill levels.
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Registration Info
iEarth Camp!
Have a blast with fun, safe, and supervised activities this summer! Sign up to have a chance to explore the world around you through geocaching, printmaking, sand sculptures, ecology, fort-building and many more activities.
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Registration Info

Gray's Lake lighten bridge at dusk with downtown in the distance

Gray's Lake - Fun On and Near the Water

Over one million people visit Gray's Lake Park every year. Gray's Lake is a 96 acres freshwater lake with a maximum depth of 14.2 feet with a mean depth of 9.6 feet. Gray's Lake is open April through October from 5 AM to 12 midnight and 6 AM to 10 PM November through March.

Gray's Lake allows electric trolling motor only. Sailboats maximum height must not exceed 24 foot due to high overhead voltage. Sailboats must remain 30 feet from the bridge. Visitors may gain access to the lake from a hard surface boat ramp.

Fishing

Gray's Lake hosts an unusual combination of fish - those typically found in rivers as well as those found in lakes and, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, is one of the best cat fishing spots in central Iowa. The Lake offers many good fishing access points from shore for the fishing enthusiast who does not have a boat. Fishing is permitted in all areas except the pedestrian bridge and on the boat rental dock when it is open for rentals. The major species of fish include channel catfish, crappies and largemouth bass.

Sailing and Canoeing

Bring your sail boat or canoe to beautiful Gray's Lake for a day-long or early evening sail or canoe outing. Visit Gray's Lake Concessions for boat rentals from 10:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. Paddleboats, canoes, sailboats, kayaks, catamaran kayaks, and hydro bikes are available for $ 5.00 per 1/2 hour rental. Rentals begin in mid April.

Learn to Sail - Intro to Sailing

Learn Canoe Basics - Canoe Lessons

Swimming

Swimming is allowed in designated beach area only. No lifeguard is on duty but life jackets are provided free of charge. Glass containers, dogs and smoking are not allowed at the beach. Consumption or possession of alcoholic beverages is not allowed within the Park.

Gray's Lake Park Rules