Entry No. 77 — the Des Moines file — filed under: after-dark

Full Moon Hike at Fort Des Moines Park

Polk County Conservation leads a Full Moon Night Hike through Fort Des Moines Park, walking the trails after dark under the light of the full moon. You'll discover the sights, sounds, and wildlife that come alive at night, and the outing wraps with a campfire for roasting marshmallows and making s'mores. The hike is free, but registration is required, and it all departs from Shelter #3 close to downtown.

The move: Join the guided moonlit hike through the woods, then sit by the campfire roasting s'mores while a naturalist names the night sounds around you.

📍 Before you go Free, no registration; offered on scheduled full-moon dates only, so check Polk County Conservation's event calendar for the next one. Meet at Shelter #3; wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. Call 515.323.5339 to confirm.

📍 South Des Moines, Polk County
💸 $
⚡ Low-key
🌗 Outdoors

Where: Fort Des Moines Park, Shelter #3, 7200 SE 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50315

Hours: Added 2026-06-23 — confirm current hours before you go.

⚠ Seasonal or scheduled — always check before you go.

#after-dark #full-moon #guided-hike #free #in-town #campfire

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Proof: source 1 · source 2 · source 3

last checked: 2026-06-23