Best Backpacking Destinations in Des Moines, Iowa, United States
1. Raccoon River Valley Trail
A scenic trail spanning 98 miles, perfect for backpacking, featuring diverse landscapes and wildlife.
- Long Stretch: Ideal for multi-day backpacking trips
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe various wildlife species along the trail
- Diverse Landscapes: Offers a variety of landscapes, from forests to open fields
2. Prairie City State Park
A unique experience with its preserved Iowa prairie and town replicas. Camping sites available for backpackers.
- Historic Town Replicas: Provides a glimpse into the past with its restored 1800s-era buildings
- Iowa Prairie Conservation: A rare chance to explore Iowa's native prairies and their unique ecosystems
- Camping Availability: Offers camping sites specifically for backpackers
3. Des Moines River Trail
Follow the Des Moines River through downtown Des Moines, offering a mix of urban and natural beauty.
- Urban & Natural Beauty: Enjoys the blend of cityscapes and nature along the river
- Accessibility: Easy access to amenities and downtown Des Moines attractions
- Downtown Exploration: Opportunity to explore Des Moines' vibrant downtown while backpacking
4. Saylorville Lake
A picturesque lake surrounded by trails, perfect for backpackers seeking solitude and outdoor adventure.
- Solitude: Offers a quiet retreat away from the city noise
- Water Activities: Opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming during your backpacking trip
- Campground Availability: Provides campgrounds with backpacker-friendly facilities
5. Stratford Covered Bridge State Preserve
A historic covered bridge set among nature trails, ideal for a peaceful backpacking escape.
- Historic Attraction: Visit the iconic Stratford Covered Bridge dating back to 1870
- Nature Trails: Explore various nature trails throughout the preserve
- Peaceful Retreat: Offers a tranquil setting to unwind and reconnect with nature
6. Jennifer Creek Park
A peaceful park featuring a creek, wooded trails, and camping sites for backpackers.
- Peaceful Setting: Enjoy the serene atmosphere provided by the creek
- Wooded Trails: Explore various wooded trails for a deeper connection with nature
- Camping Availability: Offers campgrounds with backpacker-friendly facilities
7. Makhtanes Park Campground
A quiet campground set in Makhtanes Park, offering a peaceful base for your backpacking adventure.
- Quiet Setting: Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere offered by the park
- Central Location: Conveniently located near other Des Moines attractions
- Backpacker-Friendly Campground: Designed to accommodate backpackers and their gear
8. Pioneer Park
A park featuring trails, a lake, and historic structures, offering an educational backpacking experience.
- Educational Experience: Learn about Des Moines' history through its preserved buildings
- Nature Trails & Lake: Explore various nature trails and enjoy fishing at the lake
- Camping Availability: Provides campgrounds with backpacker-friendly facilities
9. Makhtanes Prairie
A natural prairie area with trails, providing a unique backpacking experience in Iowa.
- Natural Prairie Experience: Discover the beauty and diversity of Iowa's native prairies
- Trails: Explore various trails for a deeper connection with nature
- Peaceful Retreat: Offers a tranquil setting to unwind and reconnect with nature
10. Raccoon River Recreation Area
A scenic area along the Raccoon River offering hiking trails, campgrounds, and fishing opportunities.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the picturesque views of the Raccoon River
- Hiking Trails: Explore various hiking trails for a deeper connection with nature
- Campground Availability: Provides campgrounds with backpacker-friendly facilities
11. Big Creek State Park
A beautiful state park featuring camping, hiking trails, and a picturesque lake.
- Beautiful Scenery: Enjoy the stunning views of the park's landscapes
- Hiking Trails: Explore various hiking trails for a deeper connection with nature
- Camping Availability: Provides campgrounds with backpacker-friendly facilities
12. Heritage Park Campground
A peaceful campground located within Heritage Park, providing a convenient base for your backpacking adventure.
- Peaceful Setting: Enjoy the serene atmosphere offered by the park
- Central Location: Conveniently located near other Des Moines attractions
- Backpacker-Friendly Campground: Designed to accommodate backpackers and their gear
13. Makhtanes Park Trails
A series of trails set within Makhtanes Park, offering diverse landscapes and opportunities for wildlife observation.
- Diverse Landscapes: Experience various landscapes throughout the park
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe various wildlife species along the trails
- Central Location: Conveniently located near other Des Moines attractions
14. Waveland Park Campground
A picturesque campground set within Waveland Park, offering a peaceful base for your backpacking adventure.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Waveland Park
- Peaceful Setting: Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere offered by the park
- Backpacker-Friendly Campground: Designed to accommodate backpackers and their gear
15. Woodland Park Campground
A charming campground nestled within Woodland Park, offering a peaceful escape for backpackers.
- Peaceful Setting: Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere offered by the park
- Central Location: Conveniently located near other Des Moines attractions
- Backpacker-Friendly Campground: Designed to accommodate backpackers and their gear