Walnut Woods Campground

While enjoying some RV camping at Walnut Woods, make sure to spend some time exploring Walnut Woods State Park. Along the banks of the Raccoon River, there are opportunities for fishing and non-motorized boat excursions. If you feel like staying on dry land, you can explore the woodlands. Walnut Woods is home to the largest surviving natural grove of black walnut trees in all of North America. Unfortunately, harvesting walnuts isn't an option here. However, these walnuts attract migratory birds from across North America, so if you’re traveling in the spring or fall, chances are you will get to see a wide variety of birds – as many as 90 species have been seen. Those looking to spend some time closer to the capital can head to Water Works Park in Des Moines, Iowa. It's one of the largest urban parks in the entire country. You actually might forget that the state capital is just on the other side of the tree line. This 1,500-acre park is cut in half by the Raccoon River, which then helps feed the Maffitt Reservoir. The reservoir is open to visitors for fishing if you want to try your luck. With Water Works' central location, the city built an amphitheater within the park. Be sure to check the schedule ahead of time, because you just might get lucky and get to see a concert or performance. A little farther away from your campsite at Walnut Woods Campground is Badger Creek State Park in Van Meter. Anglers from all over central Iowa flock to Badger Creek to fish the rivers, ponds, and lakes. Badger Creek is known for housing largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill. If fishing isn’t your favorite pastime, you can head to the park in the spring and summer and enjoy the trails. The trails come to life with native wildflowers and really help give a sense of the beauty of Iowa.