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Map showing campground location near Stanton, Iowa
Camper submitted image from Viking Lake State Park CampgroundView 45 Photos
FacilitiesMap showing campground location near Stanton, Iowa

Viking Lake State Park Campground

10 ReviewsAdd Review

Within Viking Lake State Park, this campground sits along the shores of a 137-acre lake that underwent restoration several years ago. The Iowa DNR manages 105 sites ranging from primitive tent areas to full hookup spots accommodating RVs up to 35 feet. Several sites back directly to the water, providing immediate lake access for kayakers and anglers.

The campground operates as a no-wake lake environment, making it well-suited for small watercraft and fishing. Campers report mixed fishing success following the lake's restocking, though the water remains popular for kayaking and swimming at the designated beach area. Multiple hiking trails wind through the park, with some routes modified from their original configuration. "Camp sites are spread apart giving u room to do things on ur camp site," notes Alex M..

The facility includes restrooms, showers, and a dump station, plus a small camp store operated by hosts during varying hours. A restaurant and boat rental operation that previously served visitors has closed, though the marina area remains accessible. Pricing ranges from $8 for primitive sites to $18 for full hookups. The campground fills up on weekends but typically stays quiet during weekdays.

For those exploring southwestern Iowa's camping landscape, places to camp near Stanton provide additional options within the region's rolling hills and recreational lakes.

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4/24/2026 South Shower building in campground is open for the summer

This campground is 100 percent reservable and accepts reservations April 1 - October 31 until 10:00 pm CST the day of arrival.

4/20/2026 North Shower Building in campground is open for the summer

water is on to frost free hydrants in campground 4/24/2026

The campground is closed each year from November 1 - March 31.

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Map & DirectionsViking Lake State Park Campground is located in Iowa near Stanton

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

From Hwy.34 go south on county road M-65 then turn east on county road H-43 and continue to the park entrance.

Address

2780 Viking Lake Road
Stanton, IA 51573

Coordinates

40.96436703 N
95.04405982 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 5/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

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Presented byHershey's

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 5/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • Pull-Through Sites
  • 30 Amp Hookups
  • 50 Amp Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

Drive Time

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Reviews10 Camper Reviews - Viking Lake State Park Campground

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4.5

out of 5

10 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the well-maintained sites with good shade and lake access, plus affordable pricing and family amenities. Visitors often highlighted the peaceful atmosphere and variety of activities including fishing, swimming, and trails.

Reviewed Jun. 3, 2023

Very nice park

Mostly level sites with options for tenting or rv. Sites are primitive, electric only or full hookup. Several back to to the lake. The lake is great for fishing, kayaking or swimming.

Site98
Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by Ryan P., June 3, 2023
  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by Ryan P., June 3, 2023
Reviewed Jan. 15, 2023

Starlink is hit and miss, lot of trees.

Very nice and cheap. 8 for camping, 12 with electric and 18 full hookups. That’s a great price for the view. I will definitely be back when it’s greener. Verizon is 2 bars of 4g. And Starlink is only possible in select places, as there is a lot of trees. It’s January, so I chose my spot for the internet.

Site11
Month of VisitJanuary
  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by 1life1try , January 15, 2023
  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by 1life1try , January 15, 2023
  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by 1life1try , January 15, 2023
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jul. 13, 2022

Nice stay

The tent sites are small and depending on your location you may have to haul your stuff to your site. The hiking was nice only 5 miles though.

Site7
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by Tarrah C., July 13, 2022
  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by Tarrah C., July 13, 2022
  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by Tarrah C., July 13, 2022
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Sep. 12, 2020

Nice little lake a stones throw from Viliscia

We been to Viking Lake a few times over the years. And it has been cool to see this place evolve over time. They did drain this lake a few years back. But this little place has a lot to offer for campers. There trails, fishing, and kayaking. There is also a swimming area and beach and clean barhrooms. I have no problem with staying at place anytime.

  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by Tony B., September 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by Tony B., September 12, 2020
Reviewed Sep. 15, 2019

Love it

This is one off the prettiest places we have been camping at and will be going back again. Camp sites are spread apart giving u room to do things on ur camp site.

  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by Alex M., September 15, 2019
Reviewed Aug. 10, 2018

Great local campground

We have been going to Viking lake for years. We hadn't been back until just recently. Our absence was due to an invasive species in the lake a few years back. They had drained the lake to kill off the species and then restock. We figured that things would be back to normal by now, but we had no luck. My family fished all weekend and didn't catch anything to keep. It didn't look like campers around us had any better luck.

Despite the poor fishing, I love this campground. Our campsite had great shade from the trees and was right next to an inlet from the lake. We had a great spot to place our kayak in right by our campsite. The lake is large with plenty of areas with downed trees for prime fishing. It is a no wake lake, so it is perfect for small boats and kayaks.

The trails are varied and long. It had changed since the last time we had camped and they had closed off some bisecting trails to shorten your hike. There are "posted" maps along the trail, but nothing detailed or portable to take with you.

They have a great horseshoe pit and happened to have a tournament one of the days we camped that my family was able to join. They also have a great sandy beach area for swimming. We were a little disappointed that the convenient store/ restaurant was closed. We remember how they used to rent out boats which was extremely nice when we were younger and couldn't afford one of our own. Instead, they have a little shop in the camping area that the camp hosts open various hours of the day. It is super cute, but very small, so it does not have everything you might need. It is close to a town, so not too far off if you forgot something.

Site75
Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Jul. 3, 2018

Great campground

This place fills up! Great campground with restaurant, beach and boat rentals.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by Laura B., July 3, 2018
  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by Laura B., July 3, 2018
  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by Laura B., July 3, 2018
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Jul. 16, 2017

Viking Lake is not Valhalla but is a good place to camp

Viking Lake is clean and well managed. It has several amenities including a restaurant if you left your cooler at home.

The campsites are nice and so are the facilities. During the week it is really quiet. I think most of the action here happens on the weekend based on the size of the park and the campgrounds, but I am not sure because I stayed during the week.

There are a few hiking trails and a marina where you can rent a boat for a little fun after eating lunch in the restaurant. This is one of the better stops in Southwest Iowa.

  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by Matt S., July 16, 2017
  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by Matt S., July 16, 2017
  • Review photo of Viking Lake State Park Campground by Matt S., July 16, 2017
  • (22) View All
Showing results 1-10 of 10 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Viking Lake State Park Campground?

Viking Lake State Park Campground offers a variety of amenities for campers. The campground features multiple site types including primitive, electric-only, and full hookup options. Facilities include clean restrooms and a restaurant on-site. Some camping sites back directly to the lake, providing scenic views. The park is well-managed and maintained. For those seeking accommodations beyond traditional camping, cabin rentals are also available. Golf cart rentals add convenience for getting around the spacious grounds. Cell service includes approximately 2 bars of Verizon 4G coverage, though Starlink connectivity may be limited in some areas due to tree coverage.

How much does it cost to camp at Viking Lake State Park?

Viking Lake State Park offers affordable camping rates with options for every budget. Primitive tent sites are available for $8 per night. Electric-only sites cost $12 per night, while full hookup sites are priced at $18 per night. These rates provide excellent value considering the lake views and amenities available. Be sure to check with the park directly for current pricing and any seasonal rate adjustments before planning your trip.

What recreational activities can I enjoy at Viking Lake State Park?

Viking Lake State Park offers numerous recreational activities centered around its beautiful lake. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and swimming at the designated beach area. Hiking trails total approximately 5 miles throughout the park, perfect for exploring nature. The park includes a water park for family fun. For water enthusiasts, boat rentals are available. The peaceful lake setting creates ideal conditions for relaxation and outdoor recreation. The park's spacious layout provides plenty of room for activities right at your campsite, with sites generously spaced apart.

What are visitors saying in reviews of Viking Lake State Park?

Visitors consistently praise Viking Lake State Park for its scenic beauty, with many calling it one of the prettiest camping destinations they've experienced. Campers appreciate the well-spaced sites that provide privacy and room for activities. The lake receives high marks for fishing quality and swimming opportunities. Many visitors note the park's continuous improvements over the years. The campground's cleanliness and well-maintained facilities earn positive comments. Visitors appreciate the combination of natural beauty with convenient amenities like the on-site restaurant. For tent campers, some sites may require carrying gear a short distance. Overall, visitors highlight the excellent value, beautiful lake views, and family-friendly atmosphere.

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