Athene North Shore Recreation Area

09/14/2026

Thank you for contributing to our vibrant community! With over 650,500 visitors to Easter Lake Park this year, Polk County Conservation and the Athene North Shore Recreation Area team appreciate your support. Every visit to Athene North Shore fosters a welcoming environment where nature and recreation thrive for everyone. 🌳💙

09/11/2026

Whether you're a complete beginner or have tried a bit of watercolor and want to expand your skills, this watercolor class at Athene North Shore Recreation Area in Easter Lake Park is for you! 🎨

We will start with the basics, discussing paints, brushes, paper, and technique before moving on to painting our first work of art. Class includes instructor, paints, brushes, spray bottle, paper, and art board. Pack a sack lunch, as we will take a short lunch break half way through the class.

When: September 27, 10am-3pm
Registration: Required by September 18, the link to register is at the link in the comments.
Cost: $45
Ages: 16+

09/10/2026

Athene North Shore Recreation Area is back open! After strong flooding, the beach and playground are back open to the public, enjoy your weekend at Easter Lake Park!

09/10/2026

The Athene North Shore Visitor Experience Survey closes this Friday, September 11.

If you've visited the park, this is your last chance to help Polk County Conservation improve Athene North Shore Recreation Area and plan future park and recreation projects throughout the county.

The survey takes about 10 minutes to complete, the link to share your experience is in the comments.

Thank you to everyone who has already participated!

09/09/2026

09/06/2026

Come learn about one of the world’s most talked about butterflies, the monarch, and what makes them unique at Athene North Shore Recreation Area at Easter Lake Park!

Try your hand at catching and tagging monarchs as they migrate to their winter home in Mexico. Come prepared to move around and have some fun!

Where: Easter Lake Event Center
When: September 19, 1-2:30pm
This event is free, all ages, and no registration required.

09/06/2026

Interested in trying yoga?

This hatha-style yoga class is designed for participants exploring yoga for the first time, as well as for continuing participants who want to enhance their skills and dive deeper into the nuances of a holistic yoga practice. Explore essential yoga poses while connecting to the mind and breath. Build strength, flexibility, and a greater sense of inner stillness. Come and learn something new while feeling immersed in nature.

Suitable for all participants who can transition to and from the floor without assistance. Please bring your own yoga mat and blocks (optional).

This Rooted in Nature program is offered in sponsorship with UnityPoint Health - Des Moines

Where: Easter Lake Event Center
When: September 12, 9-10am

This event is FREE, no registration required, for ages 12 and up.
Space is available until the room reaches full capacity.

09/03/2026

Take a refreshing dip in the lake this Labor Day weekend! ☀️

Great news! the swim advisory for Easter Lake has been lifted, so you can jump into swimming, fishing, and all your favorite water activities this weekend. Be sure to visit the North Shore website for the latest test results.

Remember, this is your final opportunity for rentals, so don’t miss out! Reserve your kayak, canoe, or other gear at Athene North Shore Recreation Area this Labor Day weekend!

09/02/2026

Last chance for rentals this weekend, book yours now!

The Rentals and Concessions building close September 7 for the season. Rent a kayak, canoe, paddle board, trike, bike, fishing pole, or beach wheel chair at Athene North Shore Recreation Area at Easter Lake Park.

09/01/2026

Unfortunately the splash pad at Athene North Shore Recreation Area will be closed for the rest of the season due to repairs. We are thrilled that it has recieved so much love this season and can't wait for more spash pad fun next year at Easter Lake Park!