Margo Frankel Woods State Park
"Urbandale visitors may come for accessible outdoor time close to home. The park is a simple destination for photography, birding, and a calm natural setting."
Margo Frankel Woods State Park preserves a scenic stretch of the Des Moines River corridor with bottomland forest and wildlife habitat. Its location near the city makes it a convenient spot for nature viewing, photography, and a brief outdoor break.
Walnut Woods State Park
"Urbandale visitors can reach the park quickly for a low-key outdoor break. The shaded forest setting is appealing for walkers and nature lovers looking for a nearby day trip."
Walnut Woods State Park preserves one of the largest remaining stands of black walnut trees in central Iowa. Its wooded setting, river access, and proximity to Des Moines make it a popular spot for short hikes, nature viewing, and family outings.
Big Creek State Park
"Urbandale is close enough for regular day use, especially for swimming and picnicking. The park provides a quick change of scenery from city and suburban routines."
Big Creek State Park offers one of central Iowa’s best lakefront recreation settings, with a marina, swimming beach, picnic areas, and miles of shoreline to explore. Its location near the Des Moines area makes it a convenient getaway for day trips, water sports, and seasonal outdoor fun.
Badger Creek State Recreation Area
"Urbandale visitors use the park for family outings, fishing, and nature viewing. Its proximity makes it a practical choice for a half-day or full-day trip."
Badger Creek State Recreation Area features Badger Creek Lake, a popular spot for angling, paddling, and seasonal water recreation. Its wooded hills, open shoreline, and wildlife habitat make it a low-key destination for camping and nature outings near the Des Moines area.
Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park
"Urbandale families and anglers visit for easy access to open water, picnic space, and relaxed recreation. The park is close enough for spontaneous after-work or weekend visits."
Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park features a series of reclaimed mining lakes, native grasslands, and accessible outdoor recreation areas. It is a popular destination for anglers, paddlers, and families looking for a peaceful day trip close to the Des Moines area.
Lake Ahquabi State Park
"Urbandale visitors often head to the park for fishing, picnicking, and a relaxed day by the water. Its proximity makes it a practical option for short outdoor getaways."
Lake Ahquabi State Park features a beautiful lake, sandy beach, picnic areas, and a campground surrounded by rolling timber and prairie. Visitors come for water recreation, wildlife viewing, and a convenient escape close to the Des Moines metro.
Ledges State Park
"Urbandale residents often visit for camping, scenic drives, and outdoor recreation. The park’s rugged terrain feels far removed from the metro area while still being close by."
Ledges State Park features steep sandstone formations, shaded valleys, and panoramic views along the Des Moines River. It is a favorite for hiking, camping, picnicking, and photography, with some of the most distinctive natural scenery in central Iowa.