Woodland Mounds State Preserve is on a beautiful 185-acre wooded ridge in rural Warren County. Excellent hiking trails and a fascinating history make the area unique. And it’s just 25 miles south of Des Moines! So, it’s worth the short drive for the peacefulness and connection to the land and native people.
A Brief History of Woodland Mounds State Preserve
Woodland Mounds State Preserve was once home to the native Woodland Culture. 3000 to 800 years ago, this indigenous culture lived in villages by the rivers of the Eastern Plains. They raised food, like corn and squash, while continuing to hunt and gather. They’re known for their pottery and burial mounds.
The most remarkable evidence of their settlement in Warren County’s South River Valley is the burial mounds at the preserve. The mounds offer some clues into daily life and are most indicative of their burial rituals.
It’s thought the most revered members of the Woodland Culture got buried in these earthen mounds. Mounds are often on the highest point above villages. And excavated artifacts often include pottery, tools, and other select items.
Things to Do at Woodland Mounds State Preserve
Hike
Hiking is by far the most popular activity at Woodland Mounds! There are 3 miles of trail that loop through the beautiful woodlands on the ridge over the South River.
The Woodland Mounds Trailhead is near the parking lot, and it’s a 1½ mile hike to get to the burial mounds. But you can also explore some of the short trail spurs and loops along the way. See the map for details.
Visit the Woodland Culture burial mounds
There’s something sublime about visiting the burial mounds. It makes us think about the Native American way of life, for sure.* But more than that, it reminds us of how our lives are both finite and boundless too. And being in the middle of the woods makes it even more so.
The only way to reach the mounds is by foot. Enjoy the journey.
*To learn more about the Woodland Culture in Iowa, here is an excellent article!
Picnic
After your hike, have a picnic on the edge of the forest! Find tables and a grill under the shade of mature trees. The picnic area is next to the parking lot and near the trailhead.
Hunt
Part of the land at Woodland Mounds is open to public hunting. For a map of the hunting area, click here. All hunters must get a license and follow the Iowa DNR hunting regulations.
Woodland Mounds Map
Things to Do Nearby
Indianola is 8 miles west of the preserve. Stop at any of the great restaurants, tour the National Balloon Museum, and visit Pickard Park. For a great bike ride or walk, the Summerset Trail is ideal, with parking at the McVay Trailhead.
Banner Lakes at Summerset Park is 14 miles northwest of the preserve. The unique (and scenic!) landscape of this 222-acre park is a must-see.
Lake Ahquabi State Park is 13 miles southwest of the preserve. There you can rent personal watercraft, hike, camp, and more!
For another delightful hike, head 17 miles west of the preserve to Zo-El Annett Woods. The suspension bridge and beautiful woodlands are worth the trip.
Grant Park is a 150-acre park 14 miles northeast of the preserve. Go tent camping, hike the trails, and picnic at the shelter!
Visit Woodland Mounds State Preserve Today!
Woodland Mounds is at 19587 Kirkwood St, Milo, IA 50166. A gravel parking lot is at the entrance to the preserve. The picnic area and vault toilets are near the parking area.