Des Moines Beach Park

Pick your pleasure at the park. Whether it's walking the trail, splashing in the water, or a picnic with a view, there's an outdoor experience for the old and young alike. Find a play area, natural area with trails, a walking path, creek, picnicking area, a beach with scenic views and much more.

The Beach Park formerly Covenant Beach is the birthplace of Des Moines and as such has had a rich history. In 1872, land which became the Town of Des Moines was claimed by John Moore, who homesteaded and improved 154 acres including the park and downtown. In the late 1880s a sawmill was operated at the mouth of the Des Moines Creek at the park site. The first primitive road connecting Des Moines to Seattle (now a walking path) is located at the north edge of the park.

Herman “Daddy Draper” bought the grounds in 1917 to use as a playground and beach for orphanage children. Later it became a park for private picnicking and camping. In 1931, the park was sold to the North Pacific Conference of the Evangelical Covenant Church. The buildings remaining at the site today were constructed by the church in the rustic camp style with strong elements of Swedish design. This attraction is located about 3.0 miles from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.