Walnut Woods State Park Campground

For Iowans seeking a peaceful and accessible escape into nature, Walnut Woods State Park Campground in West Des Moines offers a truly unique and appealing destination. Nestled within Iowa's largest remaining natural stand of black walnut trees, this campground provides a serene and beautiful setting that feels far removed from urban life, yet is incredibly convenient for residents across central Iowa. Visitors consistently praise its tranquility, with one reviewer noting how they "super enjoyed coming here for the night" because it was "super quiet" and the "hiking trail was nice! So so SOOOO many birds! It was beautiful!"

Walnut Woods State Park, spanning approximately 250 acres of wooded bottomland along the meandering Raccoon River, is a preserved natural gem. The campground seamlessly integrates into this environment, offering a comfortable and immersive experience for both tent and RV campers. While the restrooms might be described as "outdated" by some, the overall value, especially with concrete pads and spacious sites, is highly regarded. As one satisfied camper put it, the very low price (around $21.50-$25 a night for a full hookup site) for such a well-maintained park makes it an excellent choice, particularly for those with self-contained RVs.

This park is not just a place to sleep; it's a vibrant ecosystem. Over 90 species of birds have been identified within its boundaries, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The extensive trails invite exploration, whether you're interested in a brisk hike, a leisurely stroll, or cross-country skiing in the winter. Walnut Woods State Park Campground truly provides a tranquil and enriching outdoor experience right in the heart of our state.

Walnut Woods State Park Campground is ideally situated at 3155 Walnut Woods Dr, West Des Moines, IA 50265, USA. Its location is a significant advantage for Iowans, being just "12 to 15 minutes away from everything" in the greater Des Moines metropolitan area. This means you can easily transition from your daily life to a natural retreat without extensive travel time.

Access to the campground is straightforward from major roadways. If you're coming from Des Moines, you can take I-235 West and merge onto I-80 West. Take exit 137 for 50th Street, turn right onto 50th Street, and in about a mile, turn left onto Walnut Woods Drive. The park entrance will be on your right. The asphalt roads within the park and concrete pads at the campsites make for easy navigation and setup, even for larger RVs. While some larger rigs have noted a need to watch for low-hanging branches on the access roads, the park is generally very accommodating.

The park's proximity to West Des Moines also means that campers have convenient access to urban amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, and other services, should they need anything during their stay. This blend of natural seclusion and urban convenience is a key factor in its popularity among local campers.

• Electric Hookups: All campsites at Walnut Woods State Park Campground are equipped with electric features. Additionally, eight sites offer full hookups (electric, water, and sewer), providing maximum convenience for RV campers.
• Water Access: Potable water is available at various points within the campground, including a main water source and at full hookup sites.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A convenient sanitary dump station is available on-site for RVs, making waste management easy for campers. Note that the main water and dump station may be closed during the off-season.
• Modern Restrooms: The campground provides modern restrooms. While some reviews describe them as "outdated," they are generally well-maintained and functional for guest use. (Note: The park does not have showers within the campground, as highlighted in some reviews, so self-contained units are preferred for showering).
• Concrete Pads: Campsites feature level concrete pads, which are highly appreciated by campers for easy setup and a stable foundation for tents or RVs.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with sturdy metal picnic tables, providing a designated area for outdoor dining and gatherings.
• Fire Rings: Individual fire rings with grill grates are provided at each site, perfect for enjoying campfires and cooking outdoors.
• Self-Serve Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase from May 1 through November 1 via a self-serve operation from sunrise to sunset, making it easy to enjoy a campfire responsibly.
• Reservations: All campsites are reservable year-round through the online reservation system, making it convenient to secure your preferred spot.
• Youth Group Only Campsites: Dedicated sites are available for youth groups, catering to organized outings.

• Iowa's Largest Black Walnut Grove: The park is home to Iowa's most significant natural stand of black walnut trees, creating a unique and beautiful wooded environment. This provides ample shade and a distinctive natural appeal.
• "Super Quiet" Atmosphere: Many visitors rave about the peaceful and quiet ambiance of the campground, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and escaping the noise of city life.
• Spacious Sites: Campsites are noted for being "spacious side to side" with "not real deep" but very usable concrete pads, offering comfort and privacy.
• Paved Roads and Concrete Pads: The campground features asphalt roads and concrete pads and patios, which contribute to its well-kept appearance and ease of use, especially for RVs.
• Abundant Birdlife: Walnut Woods is a birdwatcher's paradise, with "so so SOOOO many birds!" (over 90 species identified). A bird blind observation station and the Purple Martin Water Resource Area offer excellent viewing opportunities.
• Hiking Trails: Over two miles of well-maintained trails meander through the wooded bottomland along the Raccoon River. These trails are suitable for hiking, wildlife viewing, and even cross-country skiing in winter. One 1-mile loop is particularly good for young walkers.
• Raccoon River Access: The Raccoon River meanders through the park, providing opportunities for fishing from the riverbank or launching a canoe/kayak from the boat ramp on the west end of the park.
• 1930s CCC-Era Lodge: The park features a beautifully renovated 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) era lodge, available for reservations for events like weddings, graduations, or large family gatherings, offering indoor and outdoor fireplaces.
• Playground: A playground is available for children, ensuring families have a dedicated space for kids to play.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed in the park, provided they are kept on a leash, making it possible to bring your furry companions along.
• Exceptional Value: Campers frequently mention the "very low price" for full hookup sites, offering excellent value for money.

Walnut Woods State Park Campground is managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Address: 3155 Walnut Woods Dr, West Des Moines, IA 50265, USA

Phone: (515) 285-4502

Mobile Phone: +1 515-285-4502

For reservations, it is highly recommended to use the official state park reservation system:

Reservations: Visit iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com or call 877-IAPARKS (877-427-2757)

Email: Walnut_Woods@dnr.iowa.gov

For Iowans, Walnut Woods State Park Campground stands out as an exceptional local camping destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and incredible convenience. Its location in West Des Moines means that a serene escape is literally just minutes away from our homes, transforming a potential long drive into a short, easy trip. This accessibility is invaluable for families, busy professionals, and anyone looking for a quick, refreshing getaway without extensive planning or travel time.

What truly sets this campground apart for local users is its "awesome atmosphere" – a quiet, peaceful environment that allows for genuine relaxation and immersion in nature. The dense canopy of black walnut trees provides ample shade and a sense of seclusion, making it feel much more remote than it actually is. As local bird enthusiasts, we'll be thrilled by the sheer number of bird species, making every walk on the well-maintained trails a potential bird-watching adventure. The trails themselves, meandering along the Raccoon River, offer beautiful scenery for hiking, jogging, or even a peaceful cross-country ski in the winter, catering to active lifestyles year-round.

The practical amenities are also a significant draw. With concrete pads, electric hookups on all sites, and full hookups on some, RV owners will find it incredibly accommodating. While the lack of showers within the campground might be a consideration for some tent campers, the very reasonable pricing, especially for full hookup sites, provides excellent value for the quality of the overall experience. The friendly staff and efficient online reservation system further contribute to a hassle-free visit, ensuring that our precious leisure time is spent enjoying, not worrying.

Walnut Woods State Park Campground isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s a living testament to Iowa's natural heritage, a haven for wildlife, and a community hub with its historic lodge. It offers a perfect balance of outdoor adventure and peaceful respite, making it an ideal choice for any Iowan looking to reconnect with nature, enjoy quality time with loved ones, and create lasting memories right in our own backyard.

Walnut Woods State Park Campground

3155 Walnut Woods Dr, West Des Moines, IA 50265, USA