Walnut Woods State Park Campground Introduce
Are you searching for the perfect camping escape close to home? Look no further than Walnut Woods State Park Campground, a hidden gem nestled in West Des Moines, Iowa. Conveniently listed under the "camping near me" category, this campground offers a tranquil retreat with a variety of amenities and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for local campers seeking a rejuvenating experience.
Located at an unnamed road in West Des Moines, IA 50265, USA, Walnut Woods State Park Campground provides easy access for residents of the surrounding areas. For inquiries or reservations, you can reach them at (515) 285-4502 or their mobile number, +1 515-285-4502. While specific details about online booking platforms are not provided, contacting them directly will ensure you secure your spot at this popular local campground.
The environment at Walnut Woods State Park Campground is truly captivating. Situated alongside a beautiful river, the park offers a serene and picturesque setting for your camping adventure. Recent visitor feedback highlights the exceptional tranquility of the location, allowing for a peaceful night's rest away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the well-maintained hiking trails that wind through the park, offering opportunities for leisurely strolls and deeper exploration of the natural surroundings.
One of the standout features mentioned by visitors is the remarkable abundance of birdlife. If you are an avid birdwatcher or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, Walnut Woods State Park Campground promises a delightful experience with a diverse array of avian species. Imagine waking up to the cheerful melodies of countless birds, creating a truly immersive natural ambiance.
In terms of services and site features, Walnut Woods State Park Campground caters to both RV and tent campers. Many sites are equipped with full hookups (FHU), including water, electricity, and sewer connections, providing convenience and comfort for RV travelers. While specific details on the number of FHU sites versus other types are not available, a recent review mentioned the availability of FHU sites. It's advisable to inquire about site availability and specific amenities when making your reservation.
The campground boasts asphalt roads, ensuring smooth navigation within the park. The individual campsites feature concrete pads and patios, offering a level and clean surface for your RV or tent setup and an enjoyable outdoor living space. While the depth of the sites may be moderate, they are noted to be spacious side to side, providing ample room for maneuvering and setting up your camp.
It's important to note that the restroom facilities at Walnut Woods State Park Campground are described as outdated and do not include showers. This is a crucial piece of information for potential campers to consider, especially those who rely on campground shower facilities. However, as one reviewer pointed out, if you are self-contained in your RV or are comfortable without on-site showers, this may not be a significant drawback, especially considering the other positive aspects of the campground.
One of the most attractive features of Walnut Woods State Park Campground, particularly for budget-conscious local campers, is its affordability. A recent review mentioned a very low price of $21.50 per night (including a reservation fee) for a full hookup site, although it was noted that the price might have slightly increased to around $25. Even with a potential modest increase, the campground appears to offer excellent value for money, especially considering the amenities and the quality of the natural environment.
The location of Walnut Woods State Park Campground is also highly convenient. Despite its peaceful setting, it is situated only 12 to 15 minutes away from various amenities and attractions. This proximity allows campers to easily access shopping, dining, and other services in West Des Moines while still enjoying the tranquility of a natural retreat. The "camping near me" category truly reflects the accessibility of this campground for local residents seeking a quick and convenient getaway.
In summary, Walnut Woods State Park Campground offers a compelling option for local campers seeking a blend of natural beauty, essential services, and affordability. Its serene environment along the river, coupled with the abundance of birdlife and well-maintained hiking trails, provides a fantastic outdoor experience. While the restroom facilities may be basic, the spacious sites with concrete pads and the availability of full hookups cater well to RV campers. The convenient location near West Des Moines adds to its appeal, making it an easily accessible escape for those looking for "camping near me." We encourage you to contact Walnut Woods State Park Campground directly to inquire about availability and experience the charm of this local gem for yourself.
Walnut Woods State Park Campground Photos









Walnut Woods State Park Campground Location
Walnut Woods State Park Campground
Unnamed Road, West Des Moines, IA 50265, USA
Walnut Woods State Park CampgroundUnnamed Road
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Walnut Woods State Park Campground Reviews
Really enjoyed coming here for the night. It was super quiet and the hiking trail was nice! So so SOOOO many birds! It was beautiful!
Apr 28, 2025 · Maggie AttoeI am giving this a 5 in part due to the very low price of $21.50 a night (with reservation fee) for FHU site. Although, I think the price is $25 now. Sites are not real deep, but spacious side to side. Asphalt roads and concrete pads and patio. Very nice. Outdated restrooms (with no showers), but fine for the price. If you are self contained (like us), it shouldn't matter. 12 to 15 minutes away from everything. Beautiful park along the river.
Aug 04, 2023 · Deborah HooverIt's nice. Some very nice spots, some smaller, lots of trees and soon access to racoon river. They're building a pedestrian bridge but for now you can drop kayaks and paddle boards in at walnut woods n go down the dm river.
Jul 05, 2023 · Jen NielsenWalnut woods is one of our favorite camping spots for our mothers day trip and Halloween party. It's close to Des Moines and the sites are big enough for some privacy. The biggest con is that it fills fast and we have to book it a couple months ahead of time, so being organized or flexible is a must. And the tree by the pit/fill is an obstruction if you have a large rig. It's kind of a cluster in that area, so be careful. I noticed one of the concrete posts are already knocked over. It's a tight squeeze.
Aug 21, 2024 · Jeremy OlsonVery small campground considering it's next to a big city. Some sites need maintenance badly where the water collects. Good price if you can get a spot which is very, very difficult. No shower. Ranger was very friendly and helpful. Prepare to be inundated with mosquitoes.
Oct 19, 2019 · Heather Hyatt
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