The Best Hotels Closest to Walnut Ridge Recreation Area in Des Moines for 2026

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Our top choices for Walnut Ridge Recreation Area hotels

An indoor swimming pool with tiled flooring, a wooden ceiling, and a seating area with chairs and umbrellas.

A multi-story brick building with a covered entrance, flagpoles, and a landscaped area with trees.

A covered patio with a wooden table and chairs, a cushioned bench, and a hanging plant.

A reception area with a wooden counter, overhead pendant lights, framed pictures on the wall, and a refrigerator stocked with beverages.

1. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Des Moines West, IA

15 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Dennis

AED 297

AED 333 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

A La Quinta hotel with a modern design, featuring a prominent sign, a covered entrance, and a brick facade.

A spacious indoor area with multiple seating arrangements, including tables and chairs, a sofa, and a television mounted on the wall.

A hotel room with two beds, a sofa, a desk, and a TV.

A large indoor swimming pool with clear water, surrounded by lounge chairs and a small seating area.

2. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ankeny IA - Des Moines IA

11.9 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Todd

AED 298

AED 334 total

includes taxes & fees

6 Oct - 7 Oct

An outdoor seating area with yellow chairs and a colorful sofa, a fire pit, and a wooden ceiling with hanging lights.

A modern restaurant with a long wooden table and chairs, a counter with a beverage dispenser, and shelves with bowls and glasses.

A modern lounge area with a sofa, ottomans, and tables, featuring a mix of red and yellow chairs.

A hotel room with a bed, a sofa, a desk, and a television.

3. Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

15.3 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Cassandra

AED 384

AED 430 total

includes taxes & fees

4 Nov - 5 Nov

A building with a sign reading "WILDWOOD LODGE."

A spacious lobby with a reception desk, seating area, and a view of the outdoors.

A cozy living room with a stone fireplace, a sofa, and a coffee table.

An indoor swimming pool with a stone-tiled floor, red-framed windows, and a sign reading "LAKE WILDWOOD".

4. Wildwood Lodge

15 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Kristian

AED 348

AED 390 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

A gym with exercise equipment, a wall-mounted shelf with exercise balls, and a bench.

A pool area with a view of the city, a table with chairs, and a lounge area with chairs.

A modern reception area with a stone accent wall, a seating area with a sofa and chairs, a computer station, and a sign that reads "Connect & Print".

A spacious lobby with a reception desk, seating area, and a large window providing a view of the outdoors.

5. Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Altoona

18.6 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Jeffrey

AED 402

AED 450 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

A modern lounge area with a grey sofa, red chairs, and round tables.

A swimming pool with red chairs and tables, a lifeguard stand, and a yellow wall with signs.

A self-service beverage station with a variety of drinks and snacks, a refrigerated section, and a digital scale for weighing items.

A building with a 'tru by Hilton' sign on the side.

6. Tru By Hilton Grimes Des Moines

6.5 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Tyler

AED 338

AED 378 total

includes taxes & fees

8 Oct - 9 Oct

A hotel room with two beds, a desk with a computer, a TV, and artwork on the wall.

A reception desk with a 'Welcome' mat, a sign for 'Sleep Inn & Suites', and a door to the right.

A modern hotel lobby with multiple seating areas, including tables and chairs, and a reception desk.

A Sleep Inn & Suites building with a stone facade, multiple windows, and a clear sky.

7. Sleep Inn & Suites Ankeny - Des Moines

11.8 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Susan

AED 344

AED 385 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

A swimming pool with four lounge chairs and a view of trees through large windows.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, and an orange chair.

A modern breakfast bar with a coffee machine, cereal and fruit options, and a yogurt, eggs, and milk dispenser.

8. Holiday Inn Express Des Moines Ankeny by IHG

10.9 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

gary

AED 364

AED 407 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Nov - 2 Nov

An outdoor patio area with wooden beams and string lights, furnished with chairs and tables, and a stone wall backdrop.

A modern kitchen with a long counter, a buffet area with plates, and a view into the dining area.

A hotel with a modern design, featuring multiple floors and a prominent sign.

A modern reception area with a wooden reception desk, a mounted TV, and a seating area with striped chairs.

9. Best Western Premier Des Moines-Ankeny Hotel

12.1 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Nicholas

AED 294

AED 330 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Nov - 2 Nov

An indoor swimming pool with a waterfall feature, surrounded by Adirondack chairs and a wooden deck.

A cozy room with a stone fireplace, a flat-screen TV mounted above it, a sofa, a bed, and a window with blinds.

A hotel room with a large bed, a fireplace, a TV, and a jacuzzi.

A building with a sign reading "The Cottages" and a covered outdoor seating area.

10. Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston

8.3 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Jacklyn J

AED 359

AED 402 total

includes taxes & fees

5 Oct - 6 Oct

A modern bar area with a variety of beverages and a fruit bowl on the counter.

An indoor swimming pool with a clear blue water, surrounded by grey tiles, and equipped with a metal ladder. There are lounge chairs and tables with red legs, and large windows allowing natural light.

A spacious living area with sofas, a coffee table, and a fireplace.

An outdoor patio area with seating and a fire feature, surrounded by trees and a building in the background.

11. Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines/Urbandale

8.6 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Lisa

AED 372

AED 416 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

An outdoor patio with modern seating and a built-in fireplace.

A hotel bathroom with a large mirror, a sink, and a chair.

An indoor swimming pool with clear glass walls, a lifeguard chair, and a pool ladder.

A La Quinta hotel entrance with a modern design, numbered 1390, and a landscaped entrance area.

12. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines West Clive

15.1 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

dan

AED 288

AED 322 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Nov - 2 Nov

A modern outdoor seating area with a central fire feature, cushioned seating, and string lights.

A bathroom with a round mirror, wooden cabinets, and a towel rack with white towels.

A buffet setup with various food items, a toaster, and a coffee station.

A reception area with a central counter, two bar stools, and a wall with illuminated panels.

13. Revel Hotel Des Moines Urbandale, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

13.6 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Barbara

AED 479

AED 536 total

includes taxes & fees

10 Oct - 11 Oct

A modern kitchen with a large island, wooden chairs, a bowl of fruit, and a television above the island.

A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a television, and a window with a view of greenery.

A brick building with outdoor seating and large windows.

A hotel room with a blue sofa, a TV, a desk, and a large window with a cityscape view.

14. Hampton Inn West Des Moines Lake Drive

16.9 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Jesus

AED 325

AED 364 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

An outdoor seating area with sofas and tables, stone pillars, and a pathway leading to a building.

A bar area with a marble counter, a refrigerated display case with beverages, and a wall-mounted decorative piece.

A modern hotel with a stone facade, large windows, and a covered entrance area.

A hotel room with a large window offering a view of a body of water and a grassy area.

15. Hyatt Place Altoona/Des Moines

18.6 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Robert

AED 452

AED 506 total

includes taxes & fees

11 Oct - 12 Oct

A hotel exterior with a stone fire feature, outdoor seating, and a curved building facade.

A swimming pool with chairs and a view of the outside.

A modern hotel room with a dining area, seating, and a TV mounted on the wall.

A modern bar area with a wooden counter, bar stools, and a variety of beverages.

16. Courtyard Marriott Ankeny

12.4 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Kendra

AED 358

AED 401 total

includes taxes & fees

8 Oct - 9 Oct

A spacious bar area with high ceilings, large windows, and multiple bar stools.

A modern lobby with a fireplace, leather seating, a round wooden table, and a staircase.

A spacious lobby with high ceilings, large windows, and a central seating area with stools and tables.

A modern hotel with a covered entrance, a prominent sign, and a well-lit facade.

17. Hotel Renovo Des Moines Urbandale,Tapestry Collection Hilton

13.6 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Julie

AED 434

AED 486 total

includes taxes & fees

15 Oct - 16 Oct

A Holiday Inn Express & Suites building with a modern design, featuring a stone facade and a covered entrance.

A modern breakfast area with a self-serve station, a large apple-shaped sign, and a kitchen display.

A lobby with a brown sofa, grey armchairs, a small round table, and a vending machine.

A swimming pool with clear blue water, surrounded by lounge chairs and a wooden cabinet.

18. Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Des Moines - Jordan Creek by IHG

19.4 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Joshua

AED 375

AED 420 total

includes taxes & fees

3 Nov - 4 Nov

An indoor swimming pool with a 30 ft depth sign, a reception area, and a 'No Lifeguard' warning sign.

A lobby with striped orange chairs, a green ottoman, and a fireplace.

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, a television, and a dresser.

A lobby with a checkered armchair, a yellow sofa, a glass-top coffee table, and a cabinet with glass doors.

19. Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines

19.7 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Mervin

AED 367

AED 411 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Nov - 2 Nov

A spacious lobby with a high ceiling, a central seating area with a blue sofa and chairs, a dining area, and a staircase leading to an upper level.

A multi-story hotel with a prominent entrance, a large glass facade, and a parking lot.

A vending machine area with various snacks and drinks.

A hotel dining area with multiple tables and chairs, a kitchen area with a microwave and refrigerator, and a colorful carpet.

20. Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West

17.3 km from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Carlos

AED 355

AED 398 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

View all properties

Compare popular hotels close to Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Property	Property class	Guest rating
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Des Moines West, IA	9.0 Wonderful 1,002 reviews	View
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ankeny IA - Des Moines IA	9.2 Wonderful 1,054 reviews	View
Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University	9.4 Exceptional 1,001 reviews	View
Wildwood Lodge	9.6 Exceptional 1,216 reviews	View
Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Altoona	9.6 Exceptional 647 reviews	View

Top Walnut Ridge Recreation Area Hotel Reviews

Qube Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"We were visiting Iowa State University. The hotel was very nice. Access to the University was relatively close."

Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines

8/10 Good

"The hot tub wasn’t working but over all was a good stay"

Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston

10/10 Excellent

"Everything was clean & neat for a property that is noted to be older. Great breakfast."

Charming and Private 3-bedroom house by Saylorville Lake, North of Johnston

10/10 Excellent

"Our host was amazingly kind and very communicative! The property was quiet, clean,and had all the space we needed. We loved how close it was to the big park nearby!"

Spacious 5BR Retreat w/Beautiful Views,3 King 2 Full 1 Queen bed, AC in Johnston

10/10 Excellent

"We stayed here with two other families and the house was a perfect home base for the weekend. The kitchen had just about everything we needed, the bedrooms are spacious, and the kids loved the basement as a hang out space. The location is great because it’s not far off the interstate and the house is directly across the street from a huge park. We took the younger kids over to play; nice that it was walkable. Would stay here again!"

The Johnston House - Located in the heart of Johnston - Close to Saylorville

10/10 Excellent

"Very nice home and very clean. Does need some lighting outdoor at night if your coming in as I do for work in the evenings"

4 Mi to Big Creek State Park: Spacious Family Home

10/10 Excellent

"This home was absolutely perfect for our family, we traveled to the Polk city area for a wedding. It was clean, convenient, excellent communication with the owner/property manager, quiet neighborhood, close to conveniences. We had five adults, a five year-old and a baby. House worked perfectly! Thank you!"

Large New 4-bedroom house with AC in Suburban Grimes

8/10 Good

"Wonderful home! Kitchen is very nice for cooking/hanging out with everyone across dining/living space. Ventilation would be improved in bedrooms with ceiling fans. The garage is set up as rec/game room but in Iowa summers and winters it is either too humid or too cold making the area less of an option for use. Used for events at Iowa State Fairgrounds with very easy interstate driving. Location close to bars/restaurants/shopping while being a quiet suburban neighborhood. Overall a very solid option!"

3BR-Easy Lake Access-PingPong-Surrounded by Woods

10/10 Excellent

"Much needed life outside the city! Mother Nature fishing"

Other attractions near Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Oak Grove Recreation Area

Explore the great outdoors at Oak Grove Recreation Area, a lovely green space in Polk City. Discover the area's restaurants or seek out the golf courses.

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Sandpiper Super Shelter & Recreation Area

Explore the great outdoors at Sandpiper Super Shelter & Recreation Area, a lovely green space in Polk City. Discover the area's restaurants or seek out the golf courses.

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Cherry Glen Recreation Area

Explore the great outdoors at Cherry Glen Recreation Area, a lovely green space in Polk City. Discover the area's restaurants or seek out the golf courses.

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Saylorville Lake Marina

Explore the waterfront in Polk City with a trip to Saylorville Lake Marina. Discover the area's restaurants or seek out the golf courses.

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Polk City Refuge

You can take time to visit Polk City Refuge during your travels to Polk City. Discover the area's restaurants or seek out the golf courses.

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Cherry Glen Greenway

Cherry Glen Greenway is just one of the places to see in Ankeny, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

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Iowa Gold Star Military Museum

9.4/10 (15 reviews)

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Iowa Gold Star Military Museum during your trip to Johnston. Experience the area's lively festivals and great live music.

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Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Walnut Ridge Recreation Area?

Walnut Ridge Recreation Area is located in Johnston. This family-friendly area is known for its array of dining options. You'll find 31 hotels and other accommodations within a few miles for a convenient home base.

Where is the best place to stay near Walnut Ridge Recreation Area?

GrandStay Hotel & Suites is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this hotel offers free breakfast and an indoor pool. It's located 4 mi (6.4 km) from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area. Other good choices within 5 miles include Qube Hotel and Tru By Hilton Grimes Des Moines.

How many hotels will I find near Walnut Ridge Recreation Area?

Expedia has 31 hotels and other accommodations a few miles from Walnut Ridge Recreation Area.

If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Walnut Ridge Recreation Area, will I receive a refund?

Yes, the majority of room reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If your reservation is non-refundable, you might be able to cancel it and get a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Enter dates in and click on "Search", then use the filter option "fully refundable" to get the best options available near Walnut Ridge Recreation Area.

Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip in the area near Walnut Ridge Recreation Area?

For more details about changing or cancelling your stay near Walnut Ridge Recreation Area, head over to our customer service page.

What can I see and do near Walnut Ridge Recreation Area?

Get outside and spend some time strolling around Oak Grove Recreation Area, Sandpiper Super Shelter & Recreation Area, and Cherry Glen Recreation Area. Bring the family to Ankeny Art Center, Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park, and Pole Position Raceway while you're checking out the area near Walnut Ridge Recreation Area. If you're looking for something to do, plan a visit to Big Creek State Park, Saylorville Lake Marina, and Tournament Club of Iowa while you're in the area.

Find hotels near Walnut Ridge Recreation Area, Des Moines from AED 322

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Our top choices for Walnut Ridge Recreation Area hotels

1. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Des Moines West, IA

2. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ankeny IA - Des Moines IA

3. Home2 Suites by Hilton Des Moines at Drake University

4. Wildwood Lodge

5. Fairfield Inn & Suites Des Moines Altoona

6. Tru By Hilton Grimes Des Moines

7. Sleep Inn & Suites Ankeny - Des Moines

8. Holiday Inn Express Des Moines Ankeny by IHG

9. Best Western Premier Des Moines-Ankeny Hotel

10. Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston

11. Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines/Urbandale

12. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Des Moines West Clive

13. Revel Hotel Des Moines Urbandale, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

14. Hampton Inn West Des Moines Lake Drive

15. Hyatt Place Altoona/Des Moines

16. Courtyard Marriott Ankeny

17. Hotel Renovo Des Moines Urbandale,Tapestry Collection Hilton

18. Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Des Moines - Jordan Creek by IHG

19. Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines

20. Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Des Moines West

Compare popular hotels close to Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Top Walnut Ridge Recreation Area Hotel Reviews

Qube Hotel

Ramada Tropics Resort & Conf Center by Wyndham Des Moines

Stoney Creek Hotel Des Moines - Johnston

Charming and Private 3-bedroom house by Saylorville Lake, North of Johnston

Spacious 5BR Retreat w/Beautiful Views,3 King 2 Full 1 Queen bed, AC in Johnston

The Johnston House - Located in the heart of Johnston - Close to Saylorville

4 Mi to Big Creek State Park: Spacious Family Home

Large New 4-bedroom house with AC in Suburban Grimes

3BR-Easy Lake Access-PingPong-Surrounded by Woods

Other attractions near Walnut Ridge Recreation Area

Oak Grove Recreation Area

Sandpiper Super Shelter & Recreation Area

Cherry Glen Recreation Area

Saylorville Lake Marina

Polk City Refuge

Cherry Glen Greenway

Iowa Gold Star Military Museum

Frequently asked questions