It is no secret the central Iowa area offers plenty of things to see and do year-round. Museums, music, art, shopping, food — all this and more is available, so the list of possibilities is long, no matter the time of year.

There are also a number of great parks in the area where visitors can enjoy a host of outdoor-related activities. Jester Park, located on the western shore of Saylorville Lake and operated by Polk County Conservation, is one place worth exploring.

Established in 1958, Jester Park is an easy, 30-minute drive from downtown Des Moines and long-ago solidified its reputation as a popular haven for people seeking outdoor fun and...