Peterson Park is a 200-acre park situated along the Skunk River Greenbelt.  This is an old mining area containing three gravel pits suitable for fishing, a 31-acre lake, and both prairie and woodland areas.  Park entrances are located on the east and west sides of the Skunk River.  Activities and scenic areas include: swimming beach (West Peterson), picnicking, bird watching, boating, hiking and equine trails, canoe access, fishing, and hunting. No target practice is allowed.

1.75 miles east of Highway 69 on 180th Street; approximately four miles north of Ames between Highway 69 (Grand Avenue) and Dayton Road.