Ashawa Park

Play & Recreation

Nestled across 13 acres of green space, this charming neighborhood park has something for everyone in your family.

Kids will light up at the sight of the playground area - there's a larger setup that school-age children will love, plus a smaller area perfectly sized for the little ones. With monkey bars, creative play structures, and both regular and baby swings, the playground is well-suited for children between 1-10 years old.

Feeling sporty? Shoot some hoops on the full, painted basketball court or grab your mitt for some casual innings at the open baseball field. The sprawling green areas aren't just pretty to look at - they're excellent for frisbee, tag, or even kite flying. The natural wind patterns here make it a good spot for flying kites.

Hangout Spots

When it's time to refuel or just relax, head over to the shaded picnic shelter. With multiple tables, it's an excellent home base for birthday parties, family reunions, or just a lunch break with friends.

You'll also find plenty of benches and additional picnic tables scattered across the park, many thoughtfully placed in shaded areas. Planning to stay for dinner? Fire up the grill and enjoy a proper cookout under the open sky.

Practical Stuff

When nature calls, you'll appreciate the clean, well-maintained seasonal restrooms. There's also a water fountain to keep everyone hydrated during those warm Iowa afternoons.

Dog lovers, feel free to bring your furry friends along - just keep them leashed, as this isn't designated as an off-leash park.

Learning Through Play

One of the coolest things about Ashawa is its connection to learning. The park features the final leg of a storywalk that begins at the West Des Moines Library, letting you combine a good read with your outdoor adventure.

A trail connects the park to both the library and a nearby lake, and yes - it even passes through a tunnel that kids (and kids at heart) find particularly exciting.

History buffs might appreciate knowing you're standing where the former Ashawa township once existed, adding a layer of local heritage to your visit.

The Setting

The park strikes that perfect balance - easily accessible just off George Mills Civic Parkway, yet still feeling like a neighborhood retreat. The grounds are consistently well-kept and clean, offering a peaceful setting to escape the daily grind.

With its variety of amenities and relaxed atmosphere, the park is popular with locals - especially families with young children.