Margo Frankel Woods State Park in Des Moines, Iowa
Margo Frankel Woods State Park nestled between Des Moines and Ankeny is the perfect place to make a quick escape into nature. This state park is a small, wooded area with a couple of trails, a seasonal stream and a couple of quaint, shaded playgrounds to discover.
As you enter off NW 2nd St., there is a large parking lot. Near this parking lot you will find the first traditional playground set. From this parking lot, my kids like to cut down the big hill through the trees behind the playground. They enjoy following the deer trails to the main trail through the park.
The other option is to walk around the access road on the south side of the parking lot through the gate. Immediately after the gate is one of the trailheads for the main trail. The main trail as seen on AllTrails app is shaped as a Y. The main end comes out near NW 66th Ave. The other shorter section leads up a set of wooden trails to the secret playground.
The secret playground feels like you just stumble along. It’s a traditional playground but coming up a large staircase to see it appear makes it feel very magical. From this playground you can follow the access road back to the main parking lot.
This state park is maintained through early spring to late fall by Saylor Township. Outside of this time frame there are gates closing off the parking lot. You will often see cars parked outside the gates for those still taking advantage of the state park during the off season.
Details:
Name: Margo Frankel Woods State Park
Address: 6245 NW 2nd st Des Moines, Iowa 50313
Type: Places to hike and places to play
Bathrooms: Seasonal
Shade: Lots of huge trees
Playground: Two playgrounds
Trails: Yes, gravel/dirt, if not muddy, trails could be stroller friendly
Water: Yes, seasonal creek
Other notes: To reserve a shelter, call 515-289-1089 to reach Saylor Township.
Nearby Margo Frankel Woods State Park
If you want other nearby adventures to Margo Frankel Woods, we love heading north to Ankeny. Sawgrass Park, 2222 SW 36th St, is a unique nature themed playground. Nearby we also love to stop and get donuts at Linda’s Donuts, 1810 SW White Birch Circle Suite 121. If you want to be more adventurous with food, absolutely check out Naughtea, 1810 SW White Birch Circle, Suite 115, and get some Korean corndogs and unique drinks!
