Big Creek State Park

About this park

Big Creek State Park, just north of Des Moines in Polk City, is centered on Big Creek Lake and is home to the largest beach in Iowa's entire state park system, making it one of the most heavily used parks in the state during summer months. Its close proximity to the Des Moines metro area makes it a go-to spot for day trips rather than extended stays. The park connects directly to the paved 27-mile Neal Smith Trail, a rail-trail that links Big Creek to Saylorville Lake and downtown Des Moines, making it a popular staging point for cyclists tackling long-distance rides. An 18-hole disc golf course adds another recreational draw, and the lake itself supports fishing and non-motorized boating. Unlike many Iowa state parks, Big Creek does not offer camping, positioning it instead as a day-use park focused on swimming, trail access, fishing, and picnicking. Its combination of a large beach, extensive trail connections, and easy highway access from Des Moines makes it one of the busiest state parks in the system despite its relatively modest size.