Backpacking Trips in Iowa?

[kwhowell]

Hey Hikers,

I was wondering if anyone had suggestions for good weekend trips in Iowa?

I'm currently in KC so the closer to the South West corner of the state, the better.

Thanks in advance

[Korey]

The only one I'm aware of is Stephens State Forest Woodburn unit. It's not much of trip (if you hiked every trail in the park you'd make a 6.25 miles figure 8) but I'm planning on making a trip there myself this spring. It's a little ways south of Des Moines, near the town of Woodburn. I haven't been there before so I can't comment on what the terrain is like or how nice it is, but there are several backcountry campsites (first come, first serve, no permit, no fee). Other than that, I'm also planning on a trip to Yellow River State Forest, but that is in the northeast corner of the state, so basically the complete opposite side of the state from you.

[JasonT2000]

Yellow River State forest is nice. But of course, it's on the NE side of the state.  Tons of trails and a bunch of backpack camping sites.