Riverwalk Dog Park - Des Moines, IA
Riverwalk Dog Park – A Top Choice for Dog Owners in Des Moines, Iowa
Riverwalk Dog Park is a popular and well-maintained dog park conveniently located in downtown Des Moines, Iowa, at 1111 Illinois Street. Known for its spacious, clean grounds and friendly local canine community, this park welcomes dogs and owners looking for a secure, fun, and pet-friendly environment. The park features a single, large open space where small and large dogs can play together, making it a unique spot for dog owners who enjoy socializing their pets with a diverse group.
Key amenities include secure six-foot fencing, agility equipment (such as tunnels, ramps, hoops, and gates), shaded picnic tables, sun and shade options, water fountains with special dog bowl attachments, compostable poop bags and waste bins, and new ample parking at the south end. The park is wheelchair accessible and requires a valid Des Moines dog license and park pass for entry, providing added security and a well-regulated environment. If you’re looking for a dog-friendly adventure in downtown Des Moines, Riverwalk Dog Park is a must-visit!
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, dogs are allowed off-leash inside the fenced area.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? Yes, the park is securely fenced with a six-foot perimeter.
- Are there water fountains or bowls for dogs? Yes, there is a water fountain with a dog bowl attachment.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, there are shaded areas and picnic tables under cover.
- Are poop bags or waste stations provided? Yes, compostable poop bags and disposal bins are available.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, picnic tables and other seating are provided.
- Is there a separate area for small and large dogs? No, all dogs share one large area.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, there are wheelchair accessible entrances and parking.
- Is there a fee or membership required to enter? Yes, a Des Moines dog license and dog park pass are required for access.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, reviewers mention a clean and well-maintained facility.
- Is there agility equipment for dogs to play on? Yes, there are several pieces of agility equipment.
- Where is the best place to park? New parking is available at the south end of the park.
Reviews
Went there with our French Bulldog and permit in hand to find a locked gate. Unbelievable… What’s the deal Des MoinesNULL I bought this pass so we could enjoy a dog park and a locked gate is what we found. I would give zero star if I could…
I travel all around the country and have only recently encountered these locked dog parks, that you have to register for to get in. It is really a terrible experience for people from out of town. It will ensure that when I travel, I will not be bringing my business to these areas. I understand if people in the community want to have their own space, but 1) it should be advertised better on Google and other Map apps, and 2) It was literally empty when I went. I could have paid a daily fee to enjoy it without bothering anyone.
It would have been nice to know that you had to sign up to get into the park. Des Moines didn’t mention it on the map. We’re travelers and we were there on Sunday. We could not get a permit. Other than that it looked like a nice park I wish we could have visited.
Clean space, lots of room to roam with or without socializing with other dogs! Area is not segregated by dog size, one large open space.
Some dog agility equipment (tunnel, adjustable gate, ramp, hoops, etc.), picnic tables, shade and sun. 1 portapotty, water fountain with dog bowl fountain, compostable bags and composting disposal. Secure 6 foot tall fencing with multiple entrances and new parking added at South end. Must purchase dog license and dog park pass from the city to get access code. Access works at multiple Des Moines dog parks for the calendar year.
The Riverwalk Dog Park is one of the best dog parks to take your dog to that is part of the city pass system. It definitely is worth the ?. I take my dog to this park regularly and she loves it. It is not separated like the other parks and so little dogs and big dogs play together, but there is usually a good group of both. There is also an obstacle course and long grass and short grass area. Definitely worth it!