What is Johnson Park like?
Johnson Park is one of 292 PDGA-listed courses in Iowa, and one of 1 in Van Meter itself. Across 2,007 ft the course fits 9 holes at par 27, which works out to around 223 feet per hole. That is short enough that a putter and a mid-range will cover most of the round.
The terrain is prairie/open — wide open prairie fairways, which puts the emphasis on big arms and wind management. Exposed prairie layouts let you throw everything you have, but a crosswind will move a disc thirty feet off line before it lands.
ThrowSpot rates the course forgiving overall, making it a good first course or a relaxed round. Shorter holes and open landing zones mean errant throws are usually recoverable, which is exactly what a newer player needs. Most groups finish in about 45 minutes, though a busy weekend morning can add half an hour of waiting on the tee.
What discs should you bring to Johnson Park?
For a course like this, a putter and one or two mid-ranges covers the majority of shots. Leave the high-speed drivers in the car. There is rarely room to use them, and a controlled mid-range will out-score a driver you cannot place.
If you are not sure what matches your arm speed, the disc selector converts your throwing distance into a speed ceiling and specific mold recommendations. Because the fairways are open here, it is also worth checking the wind calculator before you play on a breezy day.
Cost and access
Johnson Park charges $3 to play. Pay-to-play courses are the minority in disc golf, and the fee usually reflects better maintenance, dedicated staff, or private land. Check the course signage or the local club for how payment is collected. Most park courses are open dawn to dusk; hours can change seasonally, so it is worth checking locally before a very early or late round.
Amenities at Johnson Park
Amenity information comes from PDGA course records and may not reflect recent changes. If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.
Getting to Johnson Park
Van Meter, IA — free parking is listed for this course.
Other disc golf courses near Johnson Park
More disc golf near Van Meter
Johnson Park is the only PDGA-listed course in Van Meter, but Iowa has 292 in total. See the nearby courses above, or browse every course in Iowa.
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is Johnson Park?
Johnson Park has 9 holes with a total par of 27. The course measures 2,007 ft, averaging about 223 feet per hole.
Is Johnson Park free to play?
No. Johnson Park charges $3 to play. Check course signage or the local club for how the fee is collected.
Is Johnson Park good for beginners?
Yes. It is rated beginner difficulty, with wide open prairie fairways and forgiving landing zones, which makes it a reasonable first course.
How long does it take to play Johnson Park?
About 45 minutes for a typical group on 9 holes. Solo players move faster; busy weekend mornings can add 20 to 30 minutes of waiting.
Where is Johnson Park located?
Johnson Park is in Van Meter, Iowa, at coordinates 41.52335, -93.96521. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to Johnson Park?
For this layout, a putter and one or two mid-ranges covers most shots. Leave the high-speed drivers in the car. There is rarely room to use them, and a controlled mid-range will out-score a driver you cannot place.