Des Moines Paintball Park at Archery Field and Sports is located in Altoona, Iowa, just northeast of Des Moines, operating as the paintball division of the long-standing Archery Field & Sports facility.
A Field Built for Action
The paintball fields at this venue are thoughtfully designed and consistently well-maintained. Multiple field layouts feature a variety of bunkers, barriers, and natural obstacles that create dynamic cover and strategic depth. Players can expect a mix of open sightlines and tighter engagement zones, making every match feel fresh. The fields support several game modes including speedball for fast-paced competition, woodsball for more tactical, nature-infused play, and scenario games that immerse participants in objective-based missions. Standard games include capture the flag, team deathmatch, attack and defend, and elimination — each offering a different flavor of paintball action.
Games for All Ages and Skill Levels
While standard paintball is available for players aged 10 and up, the park also offers low-impact paintball for younger participants. This version uses smaller, lighter markers and slower paintballs with roughly half the impact of standard paintball, making it a great introduction for kids. In addition to paintball, the venue features Archery Tag — a blend of dodgeball and archery using bows and foam-tipped arrows. Archery Tag is offered both indoors and outdoors, with individual and group lesson options available for those looking to sharpen their skills or just have fun with friends and family.
Built for Groups and Celebrations
Des Moines Paintball Park is especially well-suited for group events. Bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthday celebrations, school functions, and company outings are all welcome here. Groups can reserve a private field with their own dedicated referee, ensuring a personalized experience. The facility operates on a reservation-only basis for paintball, so calling ahead is required. Whether it is a corporate team-building day or a weekend gathering of friends, the park provides a structured yet flexible environment for groups of all sizes.
Knowledgeable Staff and a Welcoming Atmosphere
The staff and referees at Des Moines Paintball Park are known for being professional, accommodating, and genuinely helpful. Newcomers to the sport receive patient guidance throughout the games, while experienced players find the referees respectful and fair. The on-site pro shop is well-stocked with paintball equipment, accessories, and repair services. For those who do not own their own gear, rental equipment is available at reasonable prices and is kept in top condition. The facility is field-paint-only, meaning players must use paint purchased on-site.
More Than Just Paintball
Because the paintball park operates within Archery Field & Sports — a business with over 38 years of experience — visitors have access to a broader sporting goods environment. The venue includes a lounge area and recreation space where players can relax between matches. The indoor archery range, one of the largest in Iowa, adds another dimension for those interested in trying something different on the same visit. The entire facility is designed to accommodate walk-in players as well as scheduled groups, with a comfortable staging area that makes the experience feel organized and welcoming from start to finish.