Parks & Recreation
Our Parks… Our Pride… Our Future…
Mission Statement: “To enhance a city wide park and recreation system which improves the quality of life and promotes safe and enjoyable outdoor activities for all citizens of Spencer.”
General Information
The Park System in Spencer offers many opportunities for all types of citizens. We have a campground and enclosed shelter house at East Leach Park. Ice skating, summer band concerts, picnics, family reunions, etc. are held at East Leach. It is also one of the sites of the Summer Playground Program which is a great activity for kids for some summertime fun!
A beautiful nature area for fishing, hiking and bird watching is available at Stolley Park. Hundreds of kids and adults alike enjoy baseball and softball at Pederson Park. There are fields that are used extensively from May-September by patrons of all ages. During those months, the population equivalent of Spencer goes through Pederson on a weekly basis! Talk about a busy place!
Other Parks within the Spencer Park System include DeWolf, North School, Pete’s Pond, Sunset, Westview Memorial, Fairview, Waterway, C. Earl Page, and West Leach Park totaling 256 acres. We feel fortunate to have such a variety of Park options here in our beautiful City. The Park Department operates year-round with Supt. Bob Fullhart at the helm. Summer part-time employees are the major labor source in the care of our parks. We also have a very active volunteer Park Board that has put in countless hours toward improving our entire Park System. It is fitting, therefore, that the mission statement established by the Spencer Park Board is “To enhance a city wide park and recreation system which improves the quality of life and promotes safe and enjoyable outdoor activities for all citizens of Spencer.”
Recreational Parks
East Leach Park
Address: 225 4th Street SE
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Location: Located on the south side of the Little Sioux River, just east of Grand Avenue.
Description: Nestled along the Little Sioux River, East Leach Park is Spencer’s largest and most active park. It offers a wide variety of amenities, including direct access to the paved trail system, fishing opportunities, a large playground featuring the park’s well-known “Rocket Slide,” and a spacious covered picnic area with tables and grills. Visitors can also enjoy a skate park, sand volleyball courts, and a unique bandshell for performances. The park is home to the East Leach Park Event Center, which offers two indoor spaces available for reservation, making it an ideal location for gatherings and events.
Amenities: Playground, trails, covered picnic area, picnic tables, grills, 2 sand volleyball courts, portable restroom, East Leach Rental Facility, Bandshell, and Skate and Bike Park
Accessibility info: Access includes a gravel parking lot with a paved sidewalk connecting to the park. The site provides easy access to the Spencer Trail System, which is paved. A covered picnic area is easily accessible, and the play area is surrounded by a paved sidewalk; however, the play surface itself is uneven.
Amenities of surrounding area: East Leach Event Center, Spencer Bandshell, Spencer Skate and Bike Park, Rocket slide, Little Sioux River, Spencer Aquatic Center, SMU Family Splash Pad.
East Leach Park Event Center (Available to Rent)
Address: 305 4th Street SE
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Location: The East Leach Event Center is situated on the far eastern edge of East Leach Park, beyond the playground, picnic shelter and primary parking area.
Description: The Leach Rental Facility, built in 1998 and fully renovated in 2024, provides a modern and welcoming space for gatherings year-round. Equipped with heat and air conditioning, the facility features two rental rooms:
- East Room capacity: 50
- West Room capacity: 100
Amenities: Men’s/Women’s restrooms with shower (only available to Event Center rental guests); Two separate rental rooms.
Amenities of surrounding area: East Leach Park, Spencer Bandshell, Spencer Skate and Bike Park, Rocket slide, Little Sioux River, Spencer Aquatic Center, SMU Family Splash Pad.
Riverview Tennis Courts
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Address: 612 4th Street SE
Location: Inside Riverview Park Complex. Directly south of the Spencer Aquatic Center and Splash Pad, next to the parking lot.
Description: 8 tennis courts that were last resurfaced in 2014.
Accessibility: A paved parking lot that connects directly to the tennis courts. Paved pathways link the parking area to the courts, allowing smooth and easy access for wheelchairs, strollers, and other mobility devices.
River View Park Complex
Acres: Nearly 60 acres
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Address: 612 4th Street SE
Location: From Highway 18, turn north onto 4th Avenue SE; the complex is located just to the east. From Grand Ave., turn east onto 8th St. SW and continue for approximately six blocks.
Description: Riverview Park Complex is a recreational destination in southeast Spencer, offering a wide variety of amenities for all ages. The Spencer Aquatic Center features a 10,000-square-foot pool with zero-depth entry, spray features, a body slide, and a tube slide. Additional amenities include a concession stand, shower house, interior and exterior restrooms, and green space within the fenced area. The complex also includes eight tennis courts, with one court lined for pickleball. An 18-hole disc golf course winds through the park, and Moose Pond features two one-acre ponds and more than 20 acres of wildlife area with access to the Spencer Trail System. The historic Freeman Township Schoolhouse is also located on-site. Looking ahead, the Spencer Splash Pad is planned for completion in 2027. Located next to the aquatic center, it will feature a 1,800-square-foot interactive play area and a separate 1,000-square-foot toddler zone for ages 2–5, along with shaded seating. Construction is expected to begin in 2026.
Amenities: Aquatic center with showers and restrooms, Splash Pad, Riverview Tennis Courts, Splash Pad, Moose Pond, Disc golf, walking trails
Accessibility: Paved parking area with direct access to the paved trail system throughout the complex, providing smooth and accessible routes between amenities and activity areas for wheelchairs, strollers, and other mobility devices.
Fairview Park
Acres: 6
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Address: 1406 5th Avenue E.
Description: Basketball Court, Children’s Playground, Hiking Trail, Neighborhood Park, Tennis Courts.
Location: Adjacent to Fairview Elementary School on the east side.
Description: Fairview Park features a covered picnic area with tables and grills, a large open green space, and a walking trail. It is located next to Fairview Elementary School, giving visitors easy access to additional amenities, including a playground, basketball court, and soccer goals.
Amenities: Covered picnic area, large green space.
Accessibility: This park features off-street parking with wide paved areas for easy wheelchair and stroller access. Visitors can comfortably connect to the paved trail system and main park amenities using smooth, accessible pathways.
Deerfield Park
Address: 1501 W. 15th Street
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Location: Between West 15th & 16th Street, two blocks east of 18th Ave. West.
Description: Locally known as the “Green Park” for its green playground equipment, this neighborhood park is a favorite for active play. It features a ½-mile walking trail, a covered picnic area with tables and grills, a half-court basketball area, and a baseball backstop. A portable restroom is also available. The playground is a highlight, with a fun zipline and a large netted climbing structure that kids love. With a mix of open space and unique play features, it’s a great spot for both recreation and relaxing outdoors.
Amenities: Playground, trails, covered picnic area, picnic tables, grills, half-court basketball, baseball backstop, portable restroom.
Accessibility: Includes a paved walking trail suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, an accessible picnic area with level surfaces and accessible seating, and a wheelchair-accessible swing.
Dennis Price Courts
Address: 1400 10th Ave. East
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Location: Directly east of Spencer Middle School on the far east edge of town, sharing the same parking lot as the school.
Description: These courts include four newly constructed tennis courts that were built in 2023 as part of a joint project with the Spencer Community School District. The courts are lined for both tennis and pickleball, allowing for multiple types of play on the same surfaces. They provide a modern, shared-use facility designed for school and community recreation.
Amenities: Tennis courts with pickleball lines, NO RESTROOMS.
Amenities Nearby: Spencer Middle School, Spencer Soccer Complex and Pederson Memorial Park (baseball/softball fields).
Accessibility: Includes cutouts from the paved parking lot for convenient entry, a paved pathway leading directly to the tennis courts, and smooth court surfaces suitable for wheelchair and stroller access.
DeWolf Dog Park
Address: 3605 24th Avenue
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Location: Travel east on Highway 18 past Del’s Garden Center. The park is located on the southwest corner of Highway 18 & County Road M50 (240th Ave). Turn right onto M50; the parking lot will be on the east side of the road.
Description: Established in 2019, this spacious dog park offers a safe and enjoyable environment for dogs of all sizes. The park features two separate fenced areas—one for small dogs (under 30 lbs) and one for large dogs (over 30 lbs)—allowing pets to play safely and comfortably. Visitors will find ample parking, portable restrooms, picnic benches, and convenient dog waste receptacles. Please note that water is not available on-site, so visitors should bring water for their dogs. Surrounded by mature trees and open green space, the park provides a beautiful setting for both pets and their owners. The park is open daily from dawn to dusk.
Amenities: Two separate fenced areas for large and small dogs, picnic benches located inside fenced-in area, portable toilets available.
Amenities Nearby: Spencer Middle School, Spencer Soccer Complex and Pederson Memorial Park (baseball/softball fields).
Accessibility: Includes cutouts from the paved parking lot for convenient entry, a paved pathway leading directly to the tennis courts, and smooth court surfaces suitable for wheelchair and stroller access.
DEWOLF DOG PARK RULES
- Park closed during inclement weather.
- Tobacco, alcohol, narcotics, and glass containers are prohibited.
- Only dogs are allowed; no other pets.
- Wheeled “vehicles” (bikes, wagons, strollers) are not allowed, except those needed for disability access.
- All persons and their dogs use the park at THEIR OWN RISK. Dog owners are legally responsible for their dog’s actions and are liable for any injuries caused by their dog to other dogs or humans.
- Clean up after your dog. Place waste in designated dog waste receptacles. Dispose of trash in garbage containers.
- Keep dogs leashed prior to entering and when exiting the fenced area. Keep leash(es) with you at all times.
- Gates must remain closed at all times.
- Do not leave dogs unattended in the fenced area.
- No children under 16 are permitted unless accompanied by an adult. Bringing small children and infants into the dog park is not recommended.
- Do not bring human food into the fenced area; only small training treats are allowed.
- Shoes are required for all users.
- Fill any holes your dog digs; excessive or unsafe digging must be corrected by the owner.
- Dogs must be under control at all times.
- Dogs must be kept within appropriate size-designated areas (large and small dog areas must be followed as posted).
- It is recommended to limit use to no more than two dogs per person; all dogs must remain under the owner’s direct control at all times.
- Dogs must be current on vaccinations and parasite prevention (flea/tick control).
- Dogs must wear identification collars/tags at all times. No choke, pinch, or spike collars allowed.
- Aggressive dogs are not permitted. Dogs must be removed at the first sign of aggression.
- Dogs must be at least four months old to enter the park.
- Owners assume all liability and risk for toys brought into the park is permitted, under discretion of the owner, as other dogs may share and they may not be returned in good condition.
Accessibility info: Access includes gravel parking, with a paved sidewalk connecting the parking area to the dog park entrance. Within the park there are no paved pathways; surfaces are unpaved and uneven.
West Leach Field & Green Belt along the Little Sioux River
S. Grand Bridge & 4th St. SW
Acres: 8
Description: Children’s Playground, Fishing, Neighborhood Park, Picnic Tables, Canoe Ramp
Waterway Park
1501 Grand Plaza Drive
Acres: 10
Description: Basketball Court, Children’s Playground, Neighborhood Park, Picnic Tables, Shelter House
West Leach Field & Green Belt along the Little Sioux River
S. Grand Bridge & 4th St. SW
Acres: 8
Description: Children’s Playground, Fishing, Neighborhood Park, Picnic Tables, Canoe Ramp
North Lookout Park
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Location: Two blocks west of Grand Avenue on West Park Street, just west of Gary’s on the River.
Description: This area features a scenic overlook on the north side of the Little Sioux River, offering some of the best river views in town. The site includes benches for seating and relaxation, a carry-down river access for kayaks and canoes, and serves as a connection point between the Spencer Trail System and the off-street trail network.
Amenities: Benches/seating area; kayak & canoe carry-down river access.
Accessibility: Features off-street parking with wide paved areas for easy wheelchair and stroller access. Visitors can comfortably connect to the paved trail system and main park amenities using smooth, accessible pathways.
North School Park
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Address: 1103 1st Ave West
Location: Two blocks west of Grand Avenue on West Park Street, just west of Gary’s on the River.
Description: North School Park, established in 1980 on the former site of North School (demolished in 1975), features a playground added in 2005, a large covered picnic area with tables and grills, a full basketball court, and plenty of green space. The park also connects to the North School Trail, which extends north and provides a path for walking and biking.
Amenities: Playground, covered picnic area, picnic tables, grills, full-court basketball, portable restroom.
Accessibility: On-street parking on the north and east sides. From these access points, visitors can connect to a paved trail that loops around and runs through the park, offering smooth and accessible travel for walking, strollers, and mobility devices.
Oxbow Wildlife Area
Address: 2901 W 4th St.
(Description coming soon)
Pedersen Memorial Park
Acres: 35
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Address: 1203 E. 9th Street
Location: On the far east edge of Spencer along 10th Avenue East, just south of Spencer Middle School.
Description: This complex serves as the primary baseball and softball facility for Spencer youth programs. It includes 10 total fields: five softball fields, four youth baseball fields, and one small T-ball field. The park also features a playground and a concession stand.
Amenities: Covered picnic area with tables & grills, public restrooms open during softball/baseball season.
Accessibility: Access is partially supported by a paved roadway and select paved sidewalks in certain areas, which provide smoother travel between key points. Many routes between parking areas and individual fields include uneven terrain, which may make navigation more challenging for some visitors, especially those using wheelchairs or strollers.
Spencer Aquatic Center
For more information, click to visit our Aquatic Center Page
Acres: 35
Admission: Call (712) 262-3782 or click to view the Spencer Family YMCA Page
Hours: Varies: See posted hours @ location
Address: 612 4th St SE
Location: Directly inside Riverview Park, in the southeastern part of Spencer, just east of South Grand Avenue.
Description: The Spencer Aquatic Center features a 10,000-square-foot pool with zero-depth entry, spray features, a body slide, a tube slide, concession stand, and green space within the fenced area.
Accessibility: A zero-entry design allows gradual, step-free access into the water. Handicap accessible women’s / men’s restrooms located inside pool area. Easy access from paved parking lot.
SMU Splash Pad
For more information, click to visit our Splash Pad Page
Acres: 35
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Address: 612 4th Street SE
Location: Inside River View Park, the SMU Splash pad is directly south of the Spencer Aquatic Center.
Description: Scheduled for completion in 2027, the community project will include an 1,800-square-foot interactive splash pad area designed for all ages, along with a separate 1,000-square-foot toddler zone for children ages 2–5 years. The site will also feature shaded seating areas for visitors to relax and supervise play. Construction is expected to begin in 2026.
Amenities: Men’s/Women’s restrooms and showers are available at the Spencer Aquatic Center, located directly north of the Splash Pad and within a short walking distance.
Accessibility: The splash pad will be located next to a paved parking lot, providing convenient and accessible entry. The design includes a zero-entry, level surface with no standing water, allowing easy access for wheelchairs, strollers, and visitors of all mobility levels. The open, even layout supports safe and inclusive use of the splash area.
Stolley Park & Pond
Address: 2906 W. 18th Street
Acres: 109.5 in total, with a 40-acre stocked fishing pond
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Location: On the far northwest side of town along West 18th Street. It sits west of the fairgrounds and near the airport, adjacent to the industrial park and just south of the community’s transfer station.
Description: This unique park, formerly a large gravel pit donated to the city, has been transformed into a scenic outdoor destination. It features a one-mile trail loop and connects to the Spencer Trail System, making it a great spot for walking and exploring. The park offers excellent access to the water, including a fishing pier, a kayak launch, and carry-down access to the Little Sioux River. The water is stocked with trout, making it a popular location for fishing.
Amenities: Fishing pier, kayak launch, covered picnic areas with tables and grills.
Accessibility info: This park features a paved walking trail loop that connects directly to the paved Spencer Trail System, providing accessible opportunities for walking and recreation. Interior park roads within Stolley’s are gravel and may present uneven surfaces for some visitors using mobility devices.
Sunset Park
W. 7th St. & 11th Ave. W.
Acres: 2
Description: Basketball Court, Children’s Playground, Neighborhood Park, Picnic Tables, Shelter House
Stolley Park & Pond & Green Belt along the Little Sioux River
W. 18th St. & 32nd Ave. W.
Acres: 80
Description: Recreational Trail, Fishing, Picnic Tables
Westview Memorial Park
Acres: 5
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Address: 906 W. 9th Street W. 9th St. & 11th Ave. W.
Location: Located directly west of Johnson Elementary School on West 9th Street.
Description: West View Memorial Park features the Deegan Pavilions (2015), an outdoor performance space with three pergolas made of glass, steel, and wood. The park also includes a scenic, tree-filled setting that serves as an unofficial arboretum, along with a ¾-mile trail and sidewalk that wraps around Johnson School for walking and recreation.
Amenities: Outdoor performance area, paved walking paths, benches, year-round portable toilet.
Accessibility info: Off-street parking with a paved sidewalk throughout the park.
C. Earl Page Park
Acres: 1
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Location: Between 13th and 14th Ave. West and between West 13th and West 16th Streets, near the south end of the block.
Description:This small neighborhood park—often called a pocket park —features a picnic shelter with a table, a single basketball hoop, and a berm that’s popular with children for play.
Amenities: Picnic shelter, basketball hoop.
Accessibility info: Access includes curbside/off-street parking and unpaved walking surfaces.
Description: Basketball Court, Children’s Playground, Neighborhood Park, Picnic Tables.
Aquatic Center
612 4th Street S.E.
712-580-7275
Deerfield Park
Acres: 5
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Address: 1501 W. 15th Street
Location: Located between West 15th and 16th Street, two blocks east of 18th Ave. West.
Description: Locally known as the “Green Park” for its green playground equipment, this neighborhood park is a favorite for active play. It features a ½-mile walking trail, a covered picnic area with tables and grills, a half-court basketball area, and a baseball backstop. A portable restroom is also available. The playground is a highlight, with a fun zipline and a large netted climbing structure that kids love. With a mix of open space and unique play features, it’s a great spot for both recreation and relaxing outdoors.
Amenities: playground, trails, covered picnic area, picnic tables, grills, half-court basketball, baseball backstop, portable restroom
Accessibility info: Access includes a paved walking trail suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, an accessible picnic area with level surfaces and accessible seating, and a wheelchair-accessible swing.