Jester Park Nature Center

Spent the afternoon at Jester Park and left wishing I’d booked a campsite! The bison/elk enclosure is an unexpected slice of prairie right outside Des Moines, and the pedestrian bridge over the Des Moines River delivers postcard views for zero effort. Clean trails, free parking, and a nature center that actually keeps kids engaged—hard to beat for a quick nature reset.

This place was amazing!! I had been here before with my kids when they were little to walk the trails and play in the creeks, but I had never been in the nature center. They hosted us for a staff retreat on Friday, August 8, and they were very accommodating. Beautiful trails and stunning, informative displays inside.

This is the place to be when you need to remove screen time, smell the air, see God’s beautiful crafty hands🌹🌸🌷🌻Great is his handiworks. Nature center in the back has a beautiful garden walk path with a man made river creek. Keep driving around and you get to see huge elk and bison. So much to explore it truly is a great place🫶🏼🥰

Such a beautiful place, especially during the Fall season🍂🧡🌾 Lots of open-ended play time for kids! Totally free and worth the visit:) We will be back!

I love discovering Jester Nature Center. The paths to walk around, the peaceful presence of Elks & bisons & the opportunity to embrace nature close to home

Such a beautiful space for families - nothing showy, but lots to experience. All nature-centered. Nice events throughout the year that are easy to attend (like story time). The buffalo/bison/elk reserve is beautiful.

So impressed by the nature center and water play area in the back! Must visit for any nature group or families that like to get their kids in nature! 💦🌿