Walnut Woods State Park: A Natural Oasis Near Des Moines
Escape to nature in West Des Moines! Discover towering walnut trees, scenic trails, and outdoor adventures at Walnut Woods State Park.
Walnut Woods State Park, located in West Des Moines, Iowa, is a 260-acre haven known for its impressive stand of black walnut trees, the largest in North America. Offering a variety of outdoor activities along the Raccoon River, it's a perfect escape for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility close to the city.
A brief summary to Walnut Woods State Park
- 3155 Walnut Woods Dr, West Des Moines, Iowa, 50265, US
- +1515-285-4502
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially during the spring and fall migration seasons.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the scenic picnic areas.
- Check the Iowa DNR website for seasonal events and guided nature walks.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking, as the trails can vary in terrain.
Getting There
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Driving
Walnut Woods State Park is located at 3155 Walnut Woods Dr, West Des Moines, IA 50265. From Des Moines, take I-235 W and merge onto I-80 W. Take exit 137 for 50th St and turn right onto 50th St. In about 1 mile, turn left onto Walnut Woods Dr, and the park entrance will be on your right. Parking is available on-site. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
To reach Walnut Woods State Park by public transportation from downtown Des Moines, use the DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit) system. Take a bus to West Des Moines, specifically looking for routes that serve the 50th St area. From the nearest bus stop on 50th St, it is approximately a 20-minute walk to the park entrance at 3155 Walnut Woods Dr. A single ride on DART costs $1.75.
Discover more about Walnut Woods State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
West Glen Town Center
3.9 km
Experience a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment at West Glen Town Center in West Des Moines – your lifestyle destination.
1908 Draught House
4.1 km
West Des Moines' top spot for sports, beer, and good times. Catch the game with friends and enjoy a wide selection of brews and tasty food.
Des Moines Funny Bone
4.2 km
A premier comedy club in West Des Moines featuring stand-up comedians, a full menu, and a vibrant atmosphere for a fun night out.
West Des Moines Iowa
4.8 km
Discover West Des Moines: Where history meets modern attractions, from Valley Junction's charm to Jordan Creek's shopping and Raccoon River Park's nature.
Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines
5.4 km
A comfortable and convenient hotel in West Des Moines, offering easy access to shopping, dining, and local attractions.
Des Moines University
6.2 km
Explore the educational legacy at Des Moines University, a premier medical school located in the heart of West Des Moines, Iowa.
El Barco Méxican Restaurant
8.2 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors and a vibrant atmosphere at El Barco in Urbandale, IA. Fresh ingredients, generous portions, and friendly service await!
Cobblestone Marketplace
8.3 km
Experience local culture at Urbandale's Cobblestone Marketplace, offering unique shops, diverse dining, and vibrant community events.
Girl Scouts
8.4 km
Explore the enriching world of the Girl Scouts of Iowa, where leadership and friendship empower young girls to reach their full potential.
Witmer House
8.5 km
Discover the rich history and unique antiques at the Witmer House, a must-visit historical landmark in Des Moines, Iowa.
Hidalgo Mexican Bar and Grill
8.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine in Urbandale, IA, with flavorful dishes, refreshing drinks, and a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere at Hidalgo Mexican Bar and Grill.
Machine Shed Restaurant Urbandale
8.6 km
Experience Midwestern hospitality and farm-fresh flavors at Machine Shed Restaurant in Urbandale, Iowa. Dedicated to the American Farmer.
Hotel Renovo Des Moines Urbandale Tapestry by Hilton
8.7 km
Experience modern farmhouse charm and convenient access to Des Moines attractions at Hotel Renovo Urbandale, Tapestry Collection by Hilton.
Spice Pot - Breads & Biryani
8.7 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors at Spice Pot - Breads & Biryani in Urbandale, IA, offering a diverse menu of biryanis, breads, and classic dishes.
Color Works Tattoo
8.7 km
Urbandale's top-rated tattoo studio offering custom designs, a welcoming atmosphere, and award-winning artists dedicated to bringing your vision to life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Raccoon River Park
1.9 km
Explore the beauty of nature at Raccoon River Park, a perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and families in West Des Moines.
Jordan House
2.2 km
Explore the rich history of West Des Moines at the captivating Jordan House Museum, where the past comes alive through interactive exhibits and engaging tours.
Brown's Woods
3.2 km
Discover Iowa's largest urban forest in West Des Moines: Hike scenic trails, observe wildlife, and escape into nature at Brown's Woods.
The Operating Room West Des Moines
4.0 km
West Des Moines' unique arcade bar with a medical twist, offering games, drinks, and fun for everyone.
Taste of the Junction Music Festival
4.2 km
A vibrant multicultural festival in West Des Moines' Historic Valley Junction, celebrating community, culture, and cuisine through music and arts.
Rose the mannequin
4.7 km
Experience the whimsical charm of Rose the Mannequin in West Des Moines, an iconic tourist attraction perfect for a memorable photo op.
Blue Zoo Aquarium Des Moines
5.7 km
Explore an underwater world at Blue Zoo Aquarium Des Moines: interactive exhibits, diverse marine life, and fun for the whole family!
Des Moines Children's Museum
6.2 km
Explore the Des Moines Children's Museum for a fun-filled, educational adventure that inspires creativity and curiosity in every child.
Greenwood - Ashworth Park
6.6 km
Explore the enchanting Greenwood - Ashworth Park in Des Moines, Iowa, a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and family-friendly fun.
Des Moines Water Works Park
6.7 km
Explore 1,500 acres of natural beauty, recreation, and community events at Des Moines Water Works Park, an urban oasis in Des Moines.
Clare and Miles Mills Rose Garden
6.8 km
Discover over 200 rose varieties in a serene Des Moines garden, a vibrant and fragrant escape within Greenwood Park.
Des Moines Art Center
6.9 km
Explore world-class art and architecture at the Des Moines Art Center, a cultural hub with free admission and stunning collections.
Salisbury House & Gardens
7.2 km
Explore the exquisite Salisbury House & Gardens, a cultural treasure in Des Moines, Iowa, blending historic architecture with stunning gardens.
Living History Farms
8.7 km
Explore 300 years of farming history at Living History Farms, a captivating outdoor museum in Urbandale, Iowa, perfect for families and history buffs alike.
Gray's Lake Park
8.9 km
Experience the tranquility of Gray's Lake Park, a beautiful urban oasis in Des Moines, offering stunning views, outdoor activities, and a perfect escape.
Essential places to dine
Fire Creek
3.0 km
Discover the taste of America at Fire Creek in West Des Moines—where succulent steaks meet warm hospitality.
Fiesta Mexican Restaurant
3.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Fiesta Mexican Restaurant in West Des Moines - where every meal feels like a celebration.
Urban Cellar - Wine Bar, Grille, And Market
3.1 km
Discover Urban Cellar: A premier wine bar and grille offering exquisite cuisine and an extensive selection of wines in West Des Moines.
El Toreado Restaurant Bar & Grill . EP True
3.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at El Toreado Restaurant Bar & Grill in West Des Moines - where every meal is a fiesta!
Valley Pub
3.4 km
Discover flavorful dishes and refreshing drinks at Valley Pub in West Des Moines – where every meal is a celebration.
Eggs and Jam
3.5 km
Discover delicious brunch at Eggs and Jam in West Des Moines – where breakfast favorites meet culinary creativity.
Grand Junction Bar & Grill
3.6 km
Experience delicious American cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Grand Junction Bar & Grill in West Des Moines.
The Hall DSM
3.7 km
Discover The Hall DSM: A vibrant beer hall in West Des Moines with delicious pizza and a lively atmosphere perfect for gatherings.
SALT of the Hearth
3.9 km
Experience culinary artistry at SALT of the Hearth in West Des Moines – where local flavors meet creative dining.
Banana Leaf
4.0 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and exquisite sushi at Banana Leaf in West Des Moines - a culinary delight for every food lover.
Anna Dolce Ristorante
4.0 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Italy blended with American classics at Anna Dolce Ristorante in West Des Moines.
Irina's Steak & Seafood
4.1 km
Discover Irina's Steak & Seafood - where exquisite steaks meet fresh seafood in an elegant setting perfect for any occasion.
The Pelican Post Bar & Grille
4.2 km
Experience delicious grilled cuisine at The Pelican Post Bar & Grille in West Des Moines – where flavor meets fun!
Wellman's Pub & Rooftop
4.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Wellman's Pub & Rooftop in West Des Moines - where delicious food meets vibrant nightlife in an unforgettable setting.
G Mig's 5th Street Pub
4.2 km
Experience the best of Valley Junction at G Mig's 5th Street Pub - where great food meets lively atmosphere in West Des Moines.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Worn West Glen -A Resale Boutique
4.0 km
Explore Worn West Glen, a premier resale boutique in West Des Moines, offering unique clothing, shoes, and handbags for the eco-conscious fashionista.
Look @ you
4.0 km
Discover the latest fashion trends at Look @ You in West Des Moines—your destination for stylish clothing and accessories.
Style Encore Des Moines
4.1 km
Discover stylish women's clothing and accessories at Style Encore Des Moines, where fashion meets sustainability and affordability.
give.
4.1 km
Explore give. Gift Shop in West Des Moines for a unique selection of locally crafted gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of Iowa.
Metro Market Clothing Boutique
4.2 km
Explore unique styles at Metro Market Clothing Boutique in West Des Moines, where fashion meets local charm and personalized service.
Cindy's Boutique in Valley Junction
4.2 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Cindy's Boutique in Valley Junction, where style meets local charm in the heart of Iowa.
MintL.A. Boutique
4.2 km
Discover unique women's fashion at MintL.A. Boutique in Valley Junction, a must-visit shopping destination for trendy styles.
A Okay Antiques
4.2 km
Discover unique treasures and vintage finds at A Okay Antiques in West Des Moines, a must-visit for all antique lovers and history enthusiasts.
Atomic Garage Valley Junction
4.2 km
Explore Atomic Garage Valley Junction for a unique blend of vintage clothing and costumes in a lively shopping atmosphere.
MoMere
4.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at MoMere, West Des Moines' charming gift shop in Valley Junction.
The Vinyl Studio
4.3 km
Explore The Vinyl Studio, where fashion meets music in a boutique experience you won't forget!
Sisters
4.3 km
Explore Sisters Boutique in Valley Junction for unique apparel, jewelry, and gifts that embody local artistry and creativity.
Memory Lane
4.3 km
Discover unique vintage treasures at Memory Lane, a charming antique store in West Des Moines, perfect for history lovers and collectors.
The Spice & Tea Exchange of West Des Moines
4.3 km
Discover a world of exotic flavors at The Spice & Tea Exchange of West Des Moines, where spices and teas inspire culinary creativity.
Heart of Iowa Market Place
4.3 km
Explore the Heart of Iowa Market Place for unique gifts, gourmet groceries, and local treasures in the charming Valley Junction of West Des Moines.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
BeerStyles Taproom & Gastropub
3.9 km
Discover the perfect blend of gourmet cuisine and craft beer at BeerStyles Taproom & Gastropub in West Des Moines.
Shotgun Betty's
4.0 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Shotgun Betty's in West Des Moines, where country vibes and dancing create an unforgettable experience.
Tonic Bar
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Tonic Bar in West Des Moines, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.
The Irish
4.2 km
Discover The Irish in West Des Moines: your go-to bar for classic Irish drinks, hearty fare, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Winchester Public House
4.4 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance and exquisite cocktails at Winchester Public House in Valley Junction, a must-visit cocktail bar for all travelers.
Champions Hideaway
4.5 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Champions Hideaway, a cozy bar in Valley Junction with a welcoming atmosphere and delightful drinks.
Ladder 13
4.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious offerings at Ladder 13, West Des Moines' favorite bar for fun and relaxation.
Cattoors On Grand
4.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cattoors On Grand, a karaoke bar in West Des Moines where unforgettable nights and great company await.
Sully's Irish Pub
5.5 km
Sully's Irish Pub: A lively Irish bar in West Des Moines offering delicious food, a vast drink selection, and vibrant live entertainment.
The Keg Stand
5.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of The Keg Stand, a premier bar in West Des Moines, offering a wide selection of drinks and tasty pub fare.
Bradley's Inc
6.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and extensive drink selection at Bradley's Inc, the heart of nightlife in West Des Moines, Iowa.
Vista Pub
7.6 km
Experience the vibrant local nightlife at Vista Pub in West Des Moines, where friendly service and affordable drinks await.
Tapz Pub
8.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tapz Pub in Clive, IA, where delicious grill favorites and refreshing drinks meet camaraderie.
The Flying Moose
8.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Flying Moose, a top bar in Clive, Iowa, featuring cocktails, karaoke, and a lively atmosphere.
Down Under Bar & Grill
8.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled delights at Down Under Bar & Grill in Clive, Iowa, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Beach Girls
4.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Beach Girls, West Des Moines' top adult entertainment club, where every night is filled with fun and excitement.
Ambia Latino Club
6.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Ambia Latino Club in West Des Moines, where lively Latin rhythms and electrifying dance floor await.
XCaret Club And Lounge
6.3 km
Discover the electrifying ambiance of XCaret Club And Lounge, a top night club in West Des Moines, perfect for unforgettable nights out with friends.
Miss Kitty’s Country Bar Dance Nightclub and Honky Tonk
7.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Miss Kitty's Country Bar, where live music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable moments in Clive, IA.
Yacht Club
8.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of the Yacht Club in Des Moines – a perfect bar for relaxation and socialization with great drinks.
Noce
10.1 km
Experience soulful jazz and exquisite cocktails at Noce, Des Moines' premier jazz club and cocktail bar in the heart of downtown.
Jeannie's Bottle
10.6 km
Experience a night of fun and music at Jeannie's Bottle, the ultimate karaoke bar in Des Moines, Iowa. Enjoy drinks, singing, and new friends!
Voodoo Lounge Des Moines
11.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Voodoo Lounge in Des Moines, where eclectic music and signature cocktails create unforgettable evenings.
AJ's on East Court
12.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of AJ's on East Court, a karaoke bar in Des Moines perfect for an unforgettable night of music and fun.
The Republic on Grand
12.1 km
Experience upscale dining and unique cocktails at The Republic on Grand in Des Moines, a perfect blend of restaurant, bar, and lounge.
Buddy's Corral
12.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Buddy's Corral, a welcoming gay bar in Des Moines' East Village, with karaoke nights and inclusive entertainment.
The Garden Nightclub
12.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Garden Nightclub in Des Moines – a premier venue for live music, dancing, and inclusive fun.
El Malecon Event Center
12.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Des Moines at El Malecon Event Center, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments await.
Back Roads Lounge
12.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of grilling, sports, and vibrant nightlife at Back Roads Lounge in Johnston, Iowa.
The Fremont
12.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Fremont, a top bar and grill in Des Moines, offering delicious food and an extensive drink menu.
