Day Trips from Des Moines
← All Des Moines day tripsDay Trips from Des Moines: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of Des Moines, IA. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
12 state parks near Des Moines
Jester Park Nature Center
Granger, IA 50109
Just 29 min from Des Moines, rated 4.9 stars by 113 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ledges State Park
Madrid, IA 50156
Just 48 min from Des Moines, rated 4.8 stars by 2,941 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fontenelle Forest
Bellevue, NE 68005
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Des Moines, rated 4.8 stars by 1,437 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Parkville Nature Sanctuary
Parkville, MO 64152
Just 2 hrs 58 min from Des Moines, rated 4.8 stars by 1,475 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Maquoketa Caves State Park
Maquoketa, IA 52060
Just 2 hrs 55 min from Des Moines, rated 4.8 stars by 3,900 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Wildcat Den State Park
Muscatine, IA 52761
Just 2 hrs 27 min from Des Moines, rated 4.8 stars by 1,302 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Jacob Krumm Nature Preserve
Grinnell, IA 50112
Just 47 min from Des Moines, rated 4.7 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Big Creek State Park
Polk City, IA 50226
Just 31 min from Des Moines, rated 4.7 stars by 1,063 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge
Prairie City, IA 50228
Just 32 min from Des Moines, rated 4.7 stars by 518 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lake Macbride State Park
Solon, IA 52333
Just 1 hr 49 min from Des Moines, rated 4.6 stars by 1,999 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fallen Rock State Preserve
Eldora, IA 50627
Just 1 hr 22 min from Des Moines, rated 4.6 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Grammer Grove Wildlife Area
Grammer Grove County Wildlife Area, 2030 127th St
Just 1 hr 3 min from Des Moines, rated 4.5 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About State Parks Day Trips from Des Moines
What are the best state parks near Des Moines, IA?
The best state parks near Des Moines offer hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and scenic overlooks. Check the cards above for top-rated parks with drive times, ratings, and budget estimates.
How much does it cost to visit state parks near Des Moines?
Most state parks near Des Moines charge a vehicle entry fee of $5-$15 per day. Annual passes are usually available for $25-$50 and pay for themselves in 2-3 visits. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type.
Which state parks near Des Moines are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of Des Moines offer campgrounds ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV sites with showers. Book early for summer weekends, as popular parks fill up months in advance.
What is the best time to visit state parks near Des Moines?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near Des Moines. Summer is great for swimming and camping but parks are busiest. Winter visits are peaceful and many parks stay open year-round for hiking.
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