Walnut Woods State Park, Southeast Iowa Travel Guide

4.6 (686)

Discover Iowa's natural beauty at Walnut Woods State Park: hiking trails, camping, birdwatching, and the state's largest black walnut stand.

Home
Travel Guides
Iowa
Southeast Iowa
Walnut Woods State Park

Walnut Woods State Park, located in West Des Moines, Iowa, is a 260-acre haven featuring the state's largest stand of black walnut trees. Offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, it's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape near the city.

A brief summary to Walnut Woods State Park

3155 Walnut Woods Dr, West Des Moines, Iowa, 50265, US
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 4 am-10:30 pm
Tuesday 4 am-10:30 pm
Wednesday 4 am-10:30 pm
Thursday 4 am-10:30 pm
Friday 4 am-10:30 pm
Saturday 4 am-10:30 pm
Sunday 4 am-10:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Walnut Woods State Park.

Reservations are required for camping and highly recommended, as the campground is popular and fills up quickly.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially during the spring and fall migration seasons, to spot a variety of songbirds, hawks, and owls.
Pack insect repellent, especially during the summer months, as the wooded areas can be buggy.
Check river conditions before planning water activities, as water levels can fluctuate.
Visit in the fall to witness the vibrant colors of the changing foliage, particularly the black walnut, oak, and hickory trees.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Terrace Hill Historic Site

Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

Dodge House-Historic General

Jesse James Historical Site

Plum Grove Historical Site

Explore Walnut Woods State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Walnut Woods State Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Walnut Woods State Park is located at 3155 Walnut Woods Dr, West Des Moines, IA 50265. From Interstate 35, take exit 68 (IA Hwy 5), then exit 102 and follow the signs to Walnut Woods. From Iowa Hwy 5, take exit 102 and follow signs to the park. Parking is available within the park. There are no parking fees.
Walking

The Great Western multi-use trailhead is located approximately 3 miles from Walnut Woods State Park. This paved trail links Des Moines and Martensdale and is 16.5 miles long. From the trailhead, follow the paved path towards the park entrance. Once inside the park, follow the main road to access various trails and facilities.

Discover more about Walnut Woods State Park

Walnut Woods State Park, a 260-acre park in West Des Moines, Iowa, offers a unique natural experience with its diverse ecosystems and rich history. The park is renowned for housing the largest surviving natural stand of black walnut trees in North America, creating a shady and picturesque environment. These trees, along with oak and hickory, contribute to the park's lush woodlands, providing a habitat for various flora and fauna.Originally recognized as a potential park in 1923, the area was purchased in 1925 and initially named Elbert State Park before being renamed Walnut Woods State Park in 1933. During the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a crucial role in developing the park, deepening a former Raccoon River channel to create an artificial lake and constructing buildings and trails. The CCC-era lodge, renovated in the 1970s, stands as one of the park system's finest examples of this architectural style and can be reserved for events.Today, Walnut Woods State Park offers a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can explore over two miles of hiking trails that meander through the wooded bottomland along the Raccoon River. Birdwatching is a popular activity, with over 90 species identified in the park. The Raccoon River provides opportunities for fishing and canoeing, with a boat ramp available for easy access. In the winter, the trails are popular for cross-country skiing. The park also features a campground with electric and full hook-up sites, modern restrooms, and a dump station.