Iowa’s Urban Woodland Escape in Des Moines — Wooded Ravines, Y-Shaped Trail System, Two Playgrounds, Seasonal Stream & Family-Friendly Nature Park
Margo Frankel Woods State Park is a wooded urban state park in the northern part of Des Moines, Iowa, nestled between Des Moines and Ankeny. The park preserves a forested landscape of ravines, mature hardwood canopy, and a seasonal stream — offering hiking and mountain biking trails, two playgrounds (including a hidden “secret” playground), picnic shelters, and vault restrooms. For Des Moines families, joggers, and nature lovers, Margo Frankel delivers an authentic woodland experience minutes from the urban core.
The park’s Y-shaped trail system winds through ravines and along creek bottoms on a mix of dirt and crushed gravel paths. Some sections include steps and moderate inclines, while other areas are flat enough for all-terrain strollers. The park’s “secret playground” — accessible via a trail or by walking along the access road — is a beloved discovery for families. Margo Frankel is one of Iowa’s smallest state parks but delivers outsized value as a green oasis in the state’s largest metro area.
Things to Do
Hiking & Trail Running
- Y-shaped trail system: Multiple loops through wooded ravines and along seasonal stream
- Surface: Dirt and crushed gravel — some sections with steps and moderate inclines
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate — suitable for families; some areas stroller-accessible (all-terrain wheels recommended)
- Mountain biking: Permitted on designated trails
Playgrounds
- Main playground: Near the primary parking lot
- Secret playground: A second, hidden playground reachable via trail or by walking along the access road — a favorite discovery for kids
Nature & Wildlife
- Mature hardwood forest: Oak, hickory, and maple canopy
- Seasonal stream: Flows through the ravine system
- Birding: Woodland songbirds, woodpeckers, hawks, owls
- White-tailed deer, fox, and raccoon in the urban forest corridor
Picnicking
- Picnic shelters: Available — reservable through Saylor Township (515-289-1089)
- Tables and open areas throughout the park
Park Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Day-use only — no camping |
| Address | 6245 NW 2nd St, Des Moines, IA 50313 |
| Restrooms | Vault-style (seasonal); no running water |
| Parking | Large lot at entrance — gate locked seasonally (approx. Nov–Mar) |
| Pets | Allowed on leash |
| Cost | Free |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–May) | ⭐ Wildflowers; birding peak; seasonal stream flowing; lush green canopy emerging | Muddy trails after rain; variable weather |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | ⭐ PEAK: Full canopy shade; playgrounds; family hiking; mountain biking; picnicking | Humid; mosquitoes in ravines; bring insect repellent |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | ⭐ Fall foliage in hardwoods; cool hiking; quiet; photography | Parking gate may close mid–late November; falling leaves on trails |
| Winter (Dec–Mar) | Snow-dusted forest; winter birding; solitude; accessible on foot (park outside gate) | Parking gate LOCKED; walk in from road; icy trails; vault restrooms may be closed |
Visitor Tips
- Secret playground: Don’t miss the second “hidden” playground — it’s reachable via the trail system or by walking along the access road. A favorite for families with kids.
- Winter access: The parking gate is locked approximately November through March. You can still access the park on foot by parking outside the gate and walking in.
- Mud-ready: Trails are dirt and crushed gravel — after rain, sections can be muddy. Waterproof shoes or boots recommended, especially in spring.
- Strollers: Some trail sections are stroller-accessible with all-terrain wheels, but other areas include steps and inclines. Carriers may be more practical for the full trail system.
- Shelter reservations: Picnic shelter reservations are handled by Saylor Township — call 515-289-1089.
- Urban convenience: The park is in north Des Moines — groceries, restaurants, and amenities are minutes away in any direction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you camp at Margo Frankel Woods State Park?
No — Margo Frankel Woods State Park is a day-use only park with no camping facilities. The park offers hiking trails, two playgrounds, picnic shelters, and nature viewing in a wooded urban setting in north Des Moines. Vault restrooms are available seasonally. For camping near Des Moines, consider Big Creek State Park or Jester Park, both within a short drive.
Is there a playground at Margo Frankel Woods?
Yes — Margo Frankel Woods State Park has two playgrounds. The main playground is located near the primary parking lot. A second “secret” playground is accessible via the trail system or by walking along the park access road. Both playgrounds are popular with families and are surrounded by mature woodland. Nearby vault restrooms and picnic areas make the park well-suited for family outings.
Last updated: May 2026
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Walnut Woods State Park (a short drive away) or Big Creek State Park (a short drive away).
