Photo: Walker Johnston Park
Photo: Balaji Kota
Photo: Walker Johnston Park
Walker Johnston Park
★4.7(655 reviews)FreePark
🕑 3-5 hours👶 Best for all ages, birth through teens. Toddlers and preschoolers love the splash pad and playground areas, elementary-aged kids enjoy the fishing pond and sports fields, while tweens and teens gravitate toward the skateboard park and tennis courts.🧡 Saved by 200+ families
About
Walker Johnston Park is Urbandale's premier family destination, offering something for every age across its expansive grounds. From the popular splash pad that provides relief on hot Iowa summer days to the skateboard park, fishing pond, and multiple playgrounds, families can easily spend an entire day exploring this well-maintained recreational hub.
Highlights
- ✓Splash pad with multiple water features for cooling off in summer
- ✓Skateboard park for older kids and teens
- ✓Fishing pond stocked for family-friendly angling
- ✓Multiple playground structures for different age groups
- ✓Extensive walking and biking trails throughout the park
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on summer weekends to snag a picnic shelter near the splash pad,they fill up quickly by late morning
- 2.Pack fishing gear and an Iowa fishing license (free for kids under 16) to try your luck at the well-stocked pond
- 3.Bring extra clothes and towels if you're visiting during splash pad season (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day)
- 4.The walking trails are stroller-friendly and perfect for burning energy before or after playground time
- 5.Look for the restaurant on-site for convenient meal options without having to leave the park
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) offer the best experience with smaller crowds and cooler temperatures in summer. The splash pad is most enjoyable June through August, while spring and fall are perfect for hiking trails and fishing without the heat.
What to Know
The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM with free admission and ample parking. An on-site restaurant provides food options, though many families pack picnic lunches to enjoy at the numerous shelters and tables throughout the grounds.
Seasonal Notes
The splash pad typically operates Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting. Spring and fall offer beautiful foliage along the trails, while winter months may limit some outdoor activities. Sports fields host youth leagues throughout spring and summer seasons.
Nearby Eats
The park features an on-site restaurant for convenience, but nearby Douglas Avenue also offers family-friendly chains and local eateries within a short drive for additional dining options after your visit.
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