Pickleball Courts Near Des Moines IA: Where to Get Your Paddle On

Pickleball Courts Near Des Moines IA: Where to Get Your Paddle On

ByRally Racket

Are you looking for a fun way to stay active in Des Moines? Pickleball might be just the game for you! This fast-growing sport mixes elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It’s easy to learn and great for all ages.

A group of pickleball courts nestled among trees in Des Moines, IA. Players engaged in friendly matches under the glow of the setting sun

You can find many pickleball courts near Des Moines, IA. The city and surrounding areas offer a mix of indoor and outdoor options. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, you’ll find a court that fits your needs. Get ready to grab a paddle and join the pickleball craze in Iowa’s capital city!

1) Raccoon River Park

The sun sets over the pickleball courts at Raccoon River Park, casting long shadows on the green surface as players engage in lively matches

You’ll find a great spot for pickleball at Raccoon River Park in West Des Moines. This park is known as the “crown jewel” of the West Des Moines parks system.

With 631 acres of parkland, Raccoon River Park offers plenty of space for various activities. The park is open from 6 a.m. to midnight, giving you lots of time to enjoy a game of pickleball.

While pickleball courts aren’t specifically mentioned, the park has many recreational facilities. You might find suitable areas for playing pickleball or courts that can be used for multiple sports.

The park also has natural areas and wildlife, so you can enjoy some nature before or after your pickleball game. It’s a great place to spend a day outdoors with friends and family.

Remember to check the park’s website or call ahead to confirm if there are dedicated pickleball courts or multi-use areas where you can play. You might want to bring your own net and equipment just in case.

2) Windsor Heights Family Aquatic Center

The pickleball courts at Windsor Heights Family Aquatic Center are bustling with activity, surrounded by lush greenery and bathed in warm sunlight

Looking for a fun place to play pickleball in Des Moines? Check out the Windsor Heights Family Aquatic Center. This spot offers more than just swimming pools.

You’ll find pickleball courts here that are perfect for a quick game or a longer session. The courts are well-maintained and ready for your next match.

Bring your paddle and some friends for a great time. The center’s friendly atmosphere makes it ideal for players of all skill levels.

You can enjoy pickleball here during the warmer months. It’s a great way to stay active and have fun outdoors.

Remember to check the center’s schedule before you go. Court availability might change depending on other activities or events.

Don’t forget to bring water and sunscreen. Playing pickleball can be a workout, especially on sunny days.

3) Ashby Park

A sunny afternoon at Ashby Park pickleball courts, surrounded by greenery and a clear blue sky. Players enjoy the game on the vibrant green courts

Ashby Park is a great spot to play pickleball in Des Moines. You’ll find two outdoor pickleball courts here, perfect for enjoying a game in the fresh air.

The courts at Ashby Park are hard surface and share space with tennis courts. This means the net might be a bit taller than you’re used to for pickleball, but it adds a fun challenge to your game.

Located at 3200 38th St in Des Moines, Ashby Park is easy to get to. You can find plenty of parking nearby, making it convenient for you and your pickleball buddies.

Besides pickleball, you can enjoy other amenities at the park. There’s a playground, splash pool, and picnic areas if you want to make a day of it.

Remember to bring your own equipment, as the park doesn’t provide paddles or balls. It’s a good idea to call ahead or check online for any updates on court availability or maintenance.

4) West Des Moines Library Park

The pickleball courts at West Des Moines Library Park, surrounded by greenery and located near Des Moines, IA, are filled with players enjoying a game on a sunny day

Looking for a fun spot to play pickleball in West Des Moines? You might want to check out West Des Moines Library Park. This park offers a nice setting for your pickleball games.

While the park itself doesn’t have dedicated pickleball courts, you’ll find other amenities that make it a pleasant place to visit. You can enjoy the green spaces and walking paths before or after your game.

If you’re set on playing pickleball, you might want to bring your own portable net and equipment. The park has some open areas where you could set up a temporary court.

Remember to be respectful of other park users and follow any local rules about using the space. It’s always a good idea to check with the park officials about their policies on setting up temporary pickleball courts.

For dedicated pickleball courts in West Des Moines, you might want to try Valley View Park. It has 8 outdoor hard courts specifically for pickleball.

5) Smash Park Indoor-Outdoor Facility

A group of pickleball courts at Smash Park Indoor-Outdoor Facility near Des Moines, IA, with players enjoying a game on a sunny day

Looking for a fun place to play pickleball near Des Moines? Smash Park in West Des Moines has you covered! This awesome spot offers 6 asphalt courts for you to enjoy.

You’ll find 4 indoor courts and 2 outdoor courts at Smash Park. These are dedicated pickleball courts with permanent lines and nets, so you don’t have to worry about setting anything up.

Want to reserve a court? No problem! Smash Park lets you book courts in advance. Keep in mind that there’s a one-time fee to play, but it’s worth it for the great facilities.

Smash Park is open from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to fit in a game. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, you can get your pickleball fix here.

But wait, there’s more! Smash Park isn’t just about pickleball. You can also enjoy cornhole, arcade games, and even axe throwing. It’s a perfect spot for a fun day out with friends or family.

Best Times To Play

Pickleball courts in Des Moines IA bustling with players on a sunny afternoon, with competitive matches and friendly games in progress

Picking the right time to play pickleball in Des Moines can make a big difference in your experience. You’ll want to consider the weather and how busy the courts get at different times.

Seasonal Considerations

Des Moines has four distinct seasons, which affect pickleball play. In spring and fall, you’ll enjoy mild temperatures perfect for outdoor games. Summer can get hot, so early mornings or evenings are best. Winter is tricky for outdoor play, but don’t worry!

You can still play year-round at indoor courts like Dinks Pickleball. They offer climate-controlled comfort no matter the weather outside.

For outdoor play, aim for May to October. These months give you the best chance of good weather. Always check the forecast before heading out.

Peak Hours

Knowing when courts are busiest helps you plan your games better. Weekday mornings, especially from 9 AM to noon, are popular with retirees and flexible workers.

After-work hours, typically 5 PM to 8 PM, see a surge in players. Weekends are busy all day, with peak times from 10 AM to 2 PM.

To avoid crowds, try playing:

  • Weekdays between 2 PM and 4 PM
  • Early mornings before 8 AM
  • Late evenings after 8 PM

Some places like Pioneer Columbus Recreation Center have specific drop-in hours. Check with your local courts for their busiest times.

Pickleball Court Types

A group of pickleball courts in Des Moines, IA, with players engaged in matches

Des Moines offers a variety of pickleball court options. You’ll find both indoor and outdoor courts with different surface materials to suit your playing style and preferences.

Indoor vs Outdoor Courts

You can play pickleball year-round in Des Moines thanks to indoor courts. Dinks Pickleball has 13 indoor courts, perfect for those chilly Iowa winters. These courts protect you from wind and weather, giving you consistent playing conditions.

Outdoor courts are popular in warmer months. You’ll find them in parks and recreation areas across the city. Valley View Park in West Des Moines has 2 tennis courts lined for pickleball with lights for evening play.

Some outdoor courts are multi-use, sharing space with tennis. Birdland Sports Complex in Des Moines has 5 lined pickleball courts on tennis courts.

Surface Materials

Court surfaces can affect your game. In Des Moines, you’ll encounter several types:

  • Hard courts: The most common in the area, with 10 locations offering this surface.
  • Wood courts: Available at 5 locations, providing a different feel underfoot.
  • Concrete courts: Found at 4 locations, including some at Dinks Pickleball.

Each surface type offers unique playing characteristics. Hard courts give you consistent ball bounce, while wood can be easier on your joints. Concrete is durable and low-maintenance.

You might want to try different surfaces to see which you prefer. Some players find they perform better on certain materials.

Rules and Etiquette Tips

A group of players observe court rules and etiquette in a game of pickleball in Des Moines, IA

Pickleball combines fun with sportsmanship. Knowing the basics helps you enjoy the game and get along with other players.

Basic Rules

The serve must be made underhand and below the waist. You need to hit the ball diagonally across the court. After the serve, let the ball bounce once on each side before volleys are allowed.

The non-volley zone, or “kitchen,” is the area within 7 feet of the net. You can’t step into this zone to hit a volley. Only enter it to play a bounced ball.

Games are usually played to 11 points, and you must win by 2. Points are scored only by the serving team.

Double bounce rule: The receiving team must let the ball bounce before returning, and then the serving team must let it bounce before hitting it back.

Court Manners

Be a good sport no matter what. Shake hands or paddle-tap with your opponents after the game, win or lose. Remember, pickleball is just for fun.

Call the score clearly before each serve. If you’re not sure about a call, give your opponents the benefit of the doubt.

Don’t argue about calls. If there’s a disagreement, replay the point.

Be mindful of noise. Avoid loud outbursts or excessive chatter that might distract other courts.

If you’re playing on temporary courts, bring your own net. Some Des Moines locations need you to set up.

Clean up after yourself. Don’t leave trash or empty water bottles on the court.

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