Walnut Woods State Park
00 review3155 SE Walnut Woods Drive, West Des Moines, Iowa, 50265, United States
Walnut Woods State Park
$11.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$17.00
Hookup Site Fee$25.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$5.00
Fees range from $11 for electric hook-up only, to $25 for full hook-up sites. Reservations are made through Reserve America and incur an additional fee.
About this campground
Just minutes from Des Moines' urban bustle lies Walnut Woods State Park, a tranquil sanctuary where towering trees create a natural cathedral of shade and serenity. Here, campers discover an unexpected escape where the sounds of the city fade into birdsong and rustling leaves. Whether you're seeking a quick weekend retreat or a peaceful basecamp for exploring central Iowa's attractions, this woodland haven offers the perfect blend of accessibility and authentic outdoor immersion.
Walnut Woods State Park offers a range of camping options, including RV sites with full hookups, tent camping, and group camping areas.
Historical SignificanceStep into the park's rustic lodge and you'll journey back to the 1930s, when skilled craftsmen shaped local timber and stone into this enduring landmark. Beyond the park boundaries, Iowa's rich heritage beckons. The romantic covered bridges of Madison County, immortalized in literature and film, lie within easy driving distance. Time your visit for August and you'll find yourself perfectly positioned to experience the legendary Iowa State Fair, where butter cows, corn dogs, and agricultural traditions create memories that last a lifetime.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Walnut Woods in dramatically different hues. Spring awakens the forest floor with wildflowers while overhead, migrating warblers fill the canopy with song. Summer's warmth brings lush greenery and evening firefly displays, though visitors should pack bug spray for the occasional mosquito. Autumn transforms the massive walnut trees into a golden spectacle, drawing photographers and leaf-peepers alike. Winter strips the forest to its elegant bones, offering stark beauty and solitude, though campers should note that water access and some restroom facilities may be limited during freezing months.
ElevationNestled in the gentle river valley where the land meets the Raccoon River's meandering course, Walnut Woods occupies the rich bottomlands that have nurtured its famous trees for centuries. The park's terrain follows the river's ancient patterns, creating a landscape of subtle rises and fertile floodplains that support the magnificent forest ecosystem.
Natural Features and SceneryWalnut Woods harbors a living treasure – the continent's largest remaining natural stand of black walnut trees. These majestic giants, some centuries old, create a cathedral-like canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The Raccoon River winds lazily along the park's edge, its waters reflecting the overhanging branches and providing a serene backdrop for contemplation. This rare woodland ecosystem, thriving in the river's fertile bottomland, offers visitors a glimpse of Iowa's pre-settlement landscape, where massive trees and pristine waterways defined the prairie's edge.
Geological RegionCarved by millennia of the Raccoon River's patient flow, this forested bottomland represents one of Iowa's most precious ecological remnants. The rich alluvial soils deposited by countless floods have created the perfect nursery for North America's most impressive natural black walnut grove. This unique geological setting, where river meets forest in the heart of the prairie state, has preserved a pocket of wilderness that tells the story of Iowa's natural heritage through every ring in its ancient trees.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park includes handicap-accessible features such as parking and restrooms, as listed in its amenities. However, user reviews do not provide detailed evaluations of accessibility.
Sites SizeSites are described as generous and spacious, with concrete pads and patios. One reviewer stated, 'Sites are concrete and level with a large patio.'
Sites PrivacySites are shaded by old-growth trees, providing some degree of privacy, but they are not explicitly described as secluded. The park's proximity to Des Moines ensures a mix of natural and urban accessibility.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites with full hookups are recommended. Avoid sites prone to water accumulation.
Best CampsitesSpecific site numbers are not provided. Some user reviews suggest that full hookup sites are preferable.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in times are not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out times are not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Campers can stay for a maximum of 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number of guests allowed per site is unspecified.
Groups
No specific group camping features or capacities are detailed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are shaded, concrete-padded with options for electrical or full hookups.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round but water and restroom buildings are closed during winter until April 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are made through Reserve America.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are reservation-only; walk-up availability is not explicitly stated.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled through Reserve America policies. Specific penalty rules are not provided.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Walnut Woods State Park offers a range of activities catering to nature enthusiasts and families, including birdwatching, hiking, river-based recreation, and winter sports. The park is particularly noted for its birdwatching opportunities, with over 90 bird species identified.
Hiking
The park offers 2 to 3 miles of trails along the Raccoon River, which are popular for hiking and birdwatching. These trails are also used for cross-country skiing during the winter. One user review highlighted 'nice walking paths' as a positive feature.Fishing
Fishing from the riverbank is available, and there is a boat ramp for launching boats. The Raccoon River is a venue for river activities; however, no specific details about fish species or fishing quality are provided.Biking
The Great Western paved multi-use trail, located approximately 3 miles from the park, links Des Moines and Martensdale. It spans 16.5 miles and is ideal for biking.Boating
Boating and canoeing are popular activities on the Raccoon River. A boat ramp is located on the west end of the park. Most canoe trips require pre-planned vehicle shuttling to other access points.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching is a highlight, with a bird observation station and sightings of migrating warblers, flycatchers, hawks, and owls. The park's natural wooded setting also provides opportunities for viewing other wildlife.Winter Activities
The park's trails are popular for cross-country skiing during the winter months.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are supported on the Raccoon River. The park includes a boat launch ramp for watercraft.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted at picnic areas with fire grills.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are prevalent during summer months. Some sites collect water due to poor drainage. Bathrooms have been reported as dirty and spider-filled.
Active alertsWater and restrooms are unavailable until April 15th during winter.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Hospital and medical clinic within 10 miles (Des Moines area). Ranger station located within the park (contact number: 5152854502).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season occurs May to September, when firewood sales and other amenities are operational.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available within the facility. However, there is no specific information about recycling facilities or pickup schedules.
Proximity to water featuresClose to the Raccoon River, which offers fishing and canoeing opportunities.
Common complaintsLack of showers, poor drainage at some sites, prevalence of mosquitoes in summer, and outdated restroom facilities.
HostCampground hosts sell firewood and provide T-shirts during peak season. Hosts are described as friendly and accommodating.
Campground Map
3155 SE Walnut Woods Drive, West Des Moines, Iowa, 50265, United States
Driving directionsFrom Iowa Hwy.5 take exit 102 and follow signs to Walnut Woods. From Interstate 35 take exit 68(IA Hwy 5) then exit 102 and follow signs to Walnut Woods.
The campground is easily accessible via major highways, including Interstate 35 and Iowa Highway 5. Roads are paved and navigation appears straightforward.Nearby places
West Des Moines (approximately 5 miles), Des Moines City Center (approximately 10 miles), Winterset (approximately 35 miles).
Nearby supplies
Retail stores, fuel stations, and camping supplies available within 10 miles in the Des Moines metropolitan area.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Walnut Woods State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the peaceful and well-maintained environment of the campground, its proximity to Des Moines, and its affordability. However, the absence of showers and mosquito issues are common complaints.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Peaceful environment, full hookups, concrete and level campsites, beautiful natural setting, and proximity to Des Moines attractions. One user review stated, 'Campground laid out well, peaceful...
Show more
Common Concerns
Mosquito infestation during warm months, lack of showers, outdated restrooms, and limited availability of campsites. A user mentioned, 'Prepare to be inundated with mosquitoes,' while another noted...
Show more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons. Bring mosquito repellent, particularly in warmer months. Plan for the lack of shower facilities by bringing your own portable solutions...
Show more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are highlighted as ideal seasons for birdwatching and enjoying the natural setting. Mosquito problems are more severe during summer months, while some amenities are limited during...
Show more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Very small campground considering it's next to a big city.' 2. 'Sites are concrete and level with a large patio.' 3. 'Very nice wooded park with wide RV camping areas.' 4. 'Campground is...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites with full hookups are preferred; one reviewer recommended them highly. No specific site numbers were identified as best or worst.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are noted in the official description but are not explicitly reviewed by users.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at Walnut Woods, but specific user feedback on pet experiences is not provided.
Last updated August 10, 2025