Hidden away in northeast Ames, River Valley Park is a public park located off of the Skunk River and offers horseshoes pits, sand volleyball and a nature area.

The Skunk River attracts various wildlife, and visitors can observe ducks and other birds, deer and tadpoles.

The park is open year round and offers seasonal activities such as hiking and fishing in the summer months and cross-country skiing in the winter. Horses and motorized vehicles are prohibited in the park.