Lake Riley- Eden Prairie

Throughout my life, I had spent a lot of time at this park swimming, playing beach volleyball, and at the park. Yet, I hadn’t visited in several years. You can imagine my surprise when we stopped there recently, only to discover that the park had been updated. Not just a little update, but into such a beautiful setting! Lake Riley has always had it all…sand volleyball courts, tennis courts, a walking trail, disc golf, a swimming beach, basketball courts, a fishing pier, a large pavilion for gatherings or picnics, and a playground. Now, it also boasts pickleball nets with lines set up, a beautiful beach with a nice sand area, sitting areas in the shade and in the sun, and a completely new unique park. We took a picnic to the beach and took a quick swim one afternoon. The kids loved the water and the beach area. Later that week, they asked if we could go to the park where they enjoyed the unusual pieces of equipment that allowed them to climb, run, jump, slide, hang, swing, and explore. My only wish is that there were more safe opportunities for play for my youngest child (1). Playground pieces are definitely geared more towards preschoolers and up. While we played on the park, my oldest also, requested a game of pickleball with my husband. They are always pumped to find pickleball courts. As a side note, there are only port-a-potties at the park. Overall, Lake Riley is a park to visit! Bring your suits, sand toys, volleyball, pickleball racquets, and kids ready to burn off some energy!