Beach at Big Creek State Park - Polk City, Iowa

 

Big Creek State Park has a large wooden playground right next to the beach, which is perfect for kids.  There are several restrooms in the area, easy parking and many shaded picnic tables.

Be sure to check Iowa State Parks' Beach Monitoring page before swimming.

We like Big Creek, but not as much as other beaches in the area such as Raccoon River Park, which is much cleaner.

The large wooden playground has a toddler-friendly area and baby swings.  

There are picnic tables available all around the playground and beach area.

Big Creek Marina is also in the beach area and offers boat rentals and has concessions.