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Des Moines Outdoors

Des Moines Outdoors

Parks

Annett Nature Center Park: A Terrific Spot To Be Outdoors in Central Iowa

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Wetland Bridge Trail

Annett Nature Center is a scenic 160-acre park south of Indianola and next to Lake Ahquabi State Park. Miles of trails, plentiful wildlife, and an interactive nature center make it a terrific spot to spend a day outdoors in Central Iowa! About Annett Nature Center The 9500-square-foot nature center opened in 1997 after several years of planning and fundraising. Since its opening, it has … [Read more...] about Annett Nature Center Park: A Terrific Spot To Be Outdoors in Central Iowa

Yellow River State Forest: A NE Iowa Forest with Tons of Rustic Outdoor Adventures

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Little Paint Creek Campground

Yellow River State Forest is, without a doubt, Iowa’s most distinct forest. It’s more rugged than other state forests, with steep hills, limestone outcroppings, and spring-fed trout streams. And its unique (for Iowa) geological features and ample outdoor activities make it a popular place for nature lovers year-round. About Yellow River State Forest The Yellow River State Forest is nestled … [Read more...] about Yellow River State Forest: A NE Iowa Forest with Tons of Rustic Outdoor Adventures

Echo Valley State Park: A NE Iowa Park with Historical Significance

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Echo Valley Environmental Nature Trail

Echo Valley State Park is a secluded 100-acre park in Northeast Iowa and a great place to escape to nature! It has trout streams, a gravel trail, primitive camping, and beautiful historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) structures.  A Brief History of Echo Valley State Park The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was instrumental in building the park structures at Echo Valley State … [Read more...] about Echo Valley State Park: A NE Iowa Park with Historical Significance

Rock Creek State Park: The Ideal Spot for Outdoor Adventures Near Newton Iowa

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Rock Creek Lake

Rock Creek State Park is a 1697-acre park in Central Iowa known for its scenic lake. It’s a popular camping destination and an ideal spot for outdoor adventures, like boating, fishing, paddling, and hiking. And there are a ton of other things to do nearby. It’s near several other natural areas with excellent trails, a few museums, and the Iowa Speedway! A Brief History of Rock Creek State … [Read more...] about Rock Creek State Park: The Ideal Spot for Outdoor Adventures Near Newton Iowa

Effigy Mounds National Monument in NE Iowa is an Excellent Stop for All Ages

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Yellow River Bridge Trail

If you're heading to Northeast Iowa, definitely plan a stop at Effigy Mounds National Monument! It's an excellent place for all ages, with lots to explore and learn. Hike the beautiful trails at the 2,526-acre site, learn about Native American cultures, and take part in a ranger program! Another great thing about the national monument is that it’s free for visitors! So, you can explore the … [Read more...] about Effigy Mounds National Monument in NE Iowa is an Excellent Stop for All Ages

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About Des Moines Outdoors

Des Moines Outdoors is a site dedicated to helping you find the best of everything outdoors in the state of Iowa. We’re native Iowans that, for over 25 years, camped, hiked, biked, and explored our home state. We encourage you to do the same.

There’s so much more to see and do in Iowa than many people imagine! Our goal is to help visitors and residents alike experience the best of our beautiful state.

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    We make no express or implied claims or warranties regarding this website or results from using the information, content, materials, products, or services on DesMoinesOutdoors.com.

    Everything you read on this site is for entertainment purposes only. We do our best to keep up with the latest info on parks, trails, and other outdoor activities. But things change, and we don’t always know. 

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