Viking Lake Campground

The Great Outdoors

With your easy access to beautiful Viking Lake State Park in Stanton, Iowa, it is well worth spending the day exploring your temporary home around the RV park. You can set out on the miles of hiking trails that wind throughout the park. Or instead, you can enjoy the offerings of the lake. With opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming, there’s plenty to enjoy while on the shores of Viking Lake. If you’re traveling to the Midwest in the winter, you’ll be able to rent a snowmobile and explore the trails that way.Just a short drive away, you can explore Hacklebarney Woods County Park in Villisca, Iowa. Local anglers flock to the park for its idyllic beauty and abundance and variety of local fish. You can test your luck during operating hours and try to catch some bluegill, catfish, and sunfish. Outdoor sports enthusiasts can enjoy hunting from fall to spring. Those feeling particularly adventurous can head out on the equestrian trails for some exploring.Whether you want to enjoy the beauty of the lake or take a stroll through the forest, Green Valley State Park in Creston, Iowa, is a great day trip. You can head out on the paved trails that will give you glimpses of the easy-to-reach scenic spots, or you can head out on the cleared grass paths that will take you out to the further reaches of the park. While you're here, you can try your luck at some fishing, rent a canoe or kayak, or you can even try water skiing. So many opportunities await at Green Valley State Park, Iowa’s little oasis.

Explore the City

The Indian Creek Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and educating visitors about the natural and agricultural history of southwestern Iowa. Here, you can learn about the early farming practices used by the pioneers, how agriculture has continued to adapt, and about the beautiful region itself. The museum also hosts several events throughout the year, including movie nights, farm days, and garage sales, so be sure to check their calendar to see if there’s anything fun happening when you’re in town.For all the train lovers out there, the RailsWest Railroad Museum in nearby Council Bluffs is a great way to spend the day. The historic Chicago Rock Island and Pacific Railroad Passenger Depot, which was built in 1899, now houses the museum. The museum displays artifacts from and documentation about the various trains and railroad companies that operated out of the depot.Just over the border into Nebraska is Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. You can immerse yourself in a desert climate by stepping into the Desert Dome, which represents three distinct deserts from around the world. Or, you can enjoy the massive on-site aquarium. Or instead, you can head to the Asian Highlands exhibits and see animals that many people may never get the chance to see. There’s so much to check out at the Henry Doorly Zoo.When you rent an RV near Viking Lake State Park, you may need to restock and refuel throughout your journey. There are plenty of grocery stores and corner markets around the RV campground; however, gas stations are not quite as common, so be sure to plan ahead.After your day of exploring, reward yourself with a local Iowan treat: fried pork tenderloin. These savory and rib-sticking sandwiches are a classic you can find at almost any Iowan diner or restaurant. Pair it with a side of fresh corn, and you’ll feel like you truly belong in the Hawkeye State.