Playing Here
Trails
The expansive trail system includes over 25 miles of hard-surfaced trails for walking, running, and biking, connecting scenic spots like the Des Moines River Valley, Rosedale Rapids, and Kennedy Park. These trails are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of wayfinding signs and resting areas along the routes.
Parks
There are some beautiful parks to experience, including Dolliver Park, which has many canyons, bluffs, and flatlands over a four-hundred-and-fifty-acre area. Many local parks offer access to the beauty of the area for outdoor enthusiasts. A system of trails, including the local Soldier Creek Nature Trail, connects hikers to Iowa’s well-developed state trail system. Brushy Creek State Park and John F. Kennedy Memorial Park are two great locations for campers and outdoor adventurists. There are over 10,000 acres in public parks in Webster County, so there is a location to fit every desire.
Check out the City of Fort Dodge Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Department or Webster County Conservation for more information.
Waterways
The area's water trails span 65 miles, offering opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing along the Des Moines River and Lizard Creek. The waterways provide serene views and an escape into nature, making them popular for family outings or peaceful solo adventures. The water trail system is well-marked with put-in and take-out points, and offers varied difficulty levels for paddlers of all skill levels.
Aquatic Centers
For those who love aquatic fun, the Rosedale Rapids Aquatic Center and Olsen Park Splash Pad offer exciting water activities for all ages. Whether you're looking to swim, slide, or splash, these facilities provide the perfect place to cool off and enjoy time with family and friends.
Largest OHV Park in Iowa!
The Gypsum City OHV Park is located on the southeast corner of Fort Dodge. The park is approximately 800 acres in size and includes 60 miles of trails for use by ATV's, side by sides and off-road motorcycles. The park also includes a 1.5 mile motocross track, an amateur supercross track, a .4 mile kids' track, a beginner circle track, and a skills development course. Trails within the park range from open prairie for novice riders to heavily timbered areas for more advanced riders and include water crossings and mudding areas. Trail head signs within the park will indicate what machines are allowed on certain trails.
Fort Dodge Fine Arts Association
The Blanden Memorial Art Museum
The Blanden Memorial Art Museum is a cornerstone of Fort Dodge's cultural heritage, offering a diverse array of visual art exhibitions, educational programs, and events for all ages. Housed in a historic Beaux-Arts building, the museum features both regional and national art collections, showcasing a range of mediums and artistic styles. With a mission to inspire and educate, the Blanden invites art lovers, students, and the community to explore creativity, engage in workshops, and experience the beauty of fine art in a welcoming environment. Discover a world of artistic inspiration at the Blanden Memorial Art Museum.
Check Out Visit Fort Dodge's Website for More Exiting Things To Do!
