Parks Near Des Moines, Iowa
Iowa's capital provides access to scenic river valleys, prairies, and unique Midwestern landscapes.
Popular Parks Near Des Moines
Effigy Mounds National Monument
200 miles from Des Moines
4.5
National Monument
Highlights:
- Native American mounds
- Mississippi River
- Historic trails
Ledges State Park
30 miles from Des Moines
4.5
State Park
Highlights:
- Sandstone canyons
- River valley
- Fall colors
Maquoketa Caves State Park
140 miles from Des Moines
4.6
State Park
Highlights:
- Cave exploration
- Natural bridges
- Hiking
Popular Activities
- Cave exploration
- Hiking
- History tours
- Camping
- Photography
Best Times to Visit
- Fall for colors
- Summer for caves
- Spring (May-June)
Driving Tips
- Effigy Mounds is worth the long drive
- Mississippi River bluffs are stunning
- Caves are cool year-round
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