Walnut Woods State Park
- Nature reserve
- Regional draw
- West Des Moines
Walnut Woods State Park offers woodland and river scenery beside the Raccoon River near West Des Moines.

Its quieter landscape provides a contrast to the surrounding metropolitan area, with outdoor routes and picnic opportunities suited to an unhurried visit.
Check Iowa DNR alerts and the park map before choosing a trail or planning a stay. Camping and other reserved uses have separate arrangements from a day visit. The photograph shows the Raccoon River from within the park; water levels and access near the banks vary with conditions.
Visitor details reviewed October 18, 2026. Check official visitor information for current access, admission, and operating arrangements. View on OpenStreetMap.
Image credit: Fredddie / Wikimedia Commons. Original source. CC BY-SA 3.0. Resized and converted to WebP; may be cropped for display.
Nearby
More places nearby
Des Moines Art CenterDes Moines Art Center combines modern and contemporary art with buildings by notable architects, creating a visit in which space and artwork reinforce one another.
Salisbury House and GardensSalisbury House and Gardens preserves a Des Moines mansion whose architecture draws on historic English styles.
Pappajohn Sculpture ParkThe John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park places large-scale contemporary art within an open downtown Des Moines landscape.
Blank Park ZooBlank Park Zoo presents wildlife and conservation interpretation on the southern side of Des Moines.
Science Center of IowaThe Science Center of Iowa brings interactive science and educational programs to downtown Des Moines.
Greater Des Moines Botanical GardenThe Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden combines a recognizable glass dome with living plant collections and outdoor garden spaces beside the river.