Badger Creek Recreation Area

Badger Creek Recreation Area offers a hard surface boat ramp providing access to Badger Creek West and the adjacent 276-acre lake. Located in Van Meter, this ramp is one of two access points (east and west sides) serving the recreation area, making it convenient for launching kayaks, canoes, and small motorboats. The facility features a well-maintained ramp suitable for various watercraft types.

The lake operates under a no-wake speed restriction for all motorboats, creating a calmer paddling environment ideal for kayakers and canoeists. Beyond water activities, the 700+ acre recreation area supports fishing, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. On-site amenities include accessible facilities, restrooms, picnic areas, fishing jetties, and an accessible pier—making this a well-developed access point for a full day of recreation. The west-side ramp location offers paddlers a good alternative if the east ramp is crowded or inaccessible.