Facilities

Ashton Wildwood Park is composed of 113 acres of upland oak-hickory woods. Walking trails down the forested slopes provide a viewing of a wide variety of spring wild flowers. There is a self-guided ½ mile trail that is interpreted by a brochure found at the trailhead. Many of the large oak trees in the park predate the arrival of the pioneers by hundreds of years. Picnicking, camping, and softball facilities are available at Ashton Park. An Astronomical Observatory is located at Ashton Wildwood Park. A list of campground rules may be obtained here. The observatory is open for free public programs and observing dates can be given by calling 641-792-9780. You can find Ashton Park by taking Highway F-17 seven miles west of Baxter and turning south on W 122nd Street N Look for the park entrance next to the Ashton Chapel.

Enjoy a virtual tour of Ashton.

The telescopes at the Ashton Observatory are run by the Des Moines Astronomical Society (DMAS). They have an excellent website for astronomy enthusiasts at The Des Moines Astronomical Society website as well as a complete schedule of events.