Some parks become part of your family’s rhythm, and for me, West Lake Park in Scott County, Iowa, has become one of those places.

We’ve gone there enough times that I’ve lost count. Part of why we keep going back is that it’s clean, well-maintained, and keeps evolving. There’s a butterfly garden that’s interesting and a great way to learn about local butterflies. The park also has modern playgrounds for the kids and mowed nature trails that I can manage on good days when I’m able to walk longer distances. And thankfully, there are accessible bathrooms which is a small but crucial detail for families like ours. They even have a beach wheelchair, which is a huge plus for accessibility and inclusion.

For me, though, the heart of West Lake Park has always been the lake itself.

Some of my earliest memories live here. Our family reunions were held at West Lake Park every summer, with tables full of potluck food and lots of cousins running wild. I remember swimming at the beach with my cousins; though I’d rather forget the time my older cousin left me stranded in the showers with soap in my eyes because I was being annoying. (Looking at you, Erin 🤪.)

West Lake Park also boasts a modern campground and ADA accessible cabins available by reservation.

As an adult, it’s been wonderful to watch West Lake Park become part of my kids’ memories, too. In July 2019, the park drained the lakes for repairs, and my wife and the kids explored the empty lake beds together. That was a surreal adventure none of us will ever forget. And speaking of unforgettable, we’ll always remember the spectacular tumble my wife, Thy, took on her way down into the lake bed!

We’ve swum, fished, rented paddle boats, and just relaxed on the beach. The sand is soft, the water’s usually clear, and the lake has a gently sandy floor with little to no algae growing in the swimming areas, which makes it especially nice for wading and playing. With how clear the water is, you can easily spot the tiny fish darting around your feet, which is both hilarious and slightly unnerving when they decide to nibble your toes. My daughter Raeleigh, who’s 15, got some weird looks from the lifeguards when she started threatening to toss the fish into the deep end if they didn’t stop nibbling her.

This summer, we checked out the new inflatable ninja course floating out on the water. Channing, my 11-year-old, and my nephew Kingston, who’s 12, dove right in and absolutely loved it. But be warned: there are a lot of rules. You’ll have to remove all jewelry, wear a park-provided life jacket, and meet certain age and height requirements.

There are lifeguards on duty, which gives me some peace of mind, but they do a 10-minute safety break every hour where everyone has to get out of the water. My kids have very dramatic feelings about this enforced break from fun.

The lake itself gets deeper very gradually, which is perfect for younger kids or for days when I don’t have the energy for deep water swimming. Life jackets are allowed, which is helpful for my peace of mind as a mom who knows how fast things can change around water. I’m especially grateful for Royce’s toddler life jacket, which flips him safely onto his back if he tips over.

Amenities are solid: a clean shower house, shaded loungers for resting, and a concession stand with cold drinks and surprisingly affordable rentals.

A few things to keep in mind if you go:
• Entry Fee: It’s $6 per person for beach and swimming access (even for toddlers), which can add up quickly for larger families. There’s no fee just to visit the park itself.
• Swim Diapers: If your little one isn’t potty trained, swim diapers are required.
• Hourly Breaks: Plan for those 10-minute lifeguard breaks every hour. Great for safety, slightly tragic for impatient kids.
• Fish Nibbles: Consider yourself warned, the fish might try a taste of your toes.
• Food & Drinks: If you want to save some money, pack a cooler with drinks and snacks. There are grassy picnic areas where you can set up and enjoy your own food. Just remember, no glass bottles, alcohol, or smoking is allowed.

Even with a few things to plan for, West Lake Park is absolutely worth it. It’s fun, affordable, and family-friendly; a place where my kids can run wild, my body can rest when it needs to, and our unique family can soak up all the joy that summer has to offer.

❤️🌿 Mimi