The Iowa countryside surrounding Stanton offers camping opportunities within a landscape characterized by rolling hills and prairie vistas. At elevations ranging from 1,000-1,200 feet above sea level, the Stanton area experiences typical Midwestern seasonal variations with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October, with limited winter camping options available at select locations.
What to do
Hiking in Loess Hills: Hitchcock County Nature Center in Honey Creek features miles of trails with varied difficulty levels across unique landforms. "The trails are well marked and easy to follow. I was very impressed on the hike in campsites. They already have a nice flat spot for your tent, although I'm a hammock camper," notes Aaron A. from Hitchcock County Nature Center.
Fishing opportunities: Viking Lake State Park offers fishing access with shoreline spots and lake inlets ideal for casting. "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," shares Caralee D.
Nature education: Attend scheduled programs at Hitchcock Nature Center's educational facilities. "When I think of 'nature center' I think of a stuffy little cabin with taxidermy. This site is far far more than that, with hiking trails, educational programs, a museum, event halls, and of course camping," explains Lynn G. "Make sure you talk to the rangers!"
Archery practice: "As a family we go to Hitchcock a few times a year for the hiking and the archery range they have on-site. Both are excellent and a nice escape from the city!" states Pat V., describing one of the specialized recreation options at Mozingo Lake County RV Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the generous spacing between sites at many area campgrounds. "Camp sites are spread apart giving u room to do things on ur camp site," says Alex M. about Viking Lake State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Many rv parks near Stanton maintain well-kept amenities. "The amenities such as showers and bathrooms were clean and decorated cute. It was quiet and relaxing," mentions Wanda E. about Victorian Acres RV Park & Campground.
Water recreation: Lakes in the region offer swimming, kayaking and boating options. "The lake is great for fishing, kayaking or swimming," explains Ryan P. about Viking Lake State Park.
Scenic views: "The views from the two south east campsites are amazing, looking over the Missouri River valley and the Omaha skyline in the distance," Aaron A. notes about the backcountry sites at Hitchcock County Nature Center.
What you should know
Site characteristics: Many campgrounds have specific site conditions to consider. "Sites are nice with trees and vegetation but not very level. Dog park is nice though," reports Maggie C. about Victorian Acres.
Off-season limitations: Services change during shoulder seasons at Stanton area rv parks. "It's January, so I chose my spot for the internet. Verizon is 2 bars of 4g. And Starlink is only possible in select places, as there is a lot of trees," notes a winter visitor at Viking Lake.
Tent site accessibility: Some campgrounds require effort to reach tent-specific areas. "The tent sites are small and depending on your location you may have to haul your stuff to your site," explains Tarrah C.
Self-service options: "Stopped late after a long 12 hour drive. I loved the simple self service process. We picked an open spot, paid, and parked," explains Abby W. about Hitchcock County Nature Center's convenient check-in procedure.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: "This is one of our favorite places to camp. It's beautiful and there's plenty of hiking. With the nature Center there is plenty for the kids to do. There's even a 1 mile hike on a boardwalk that's very easy," shares Karen W. about Hitchcock.
Water activities: Look for campgrounds with swimming beaches during summer months. "Has a water park you can rent golf carts and cabins lots todo very family friendly," explains Taylor A. about Viking Lake.
Recreation rentals: Some campgrounds offer equipment for family activities. "This lake with views from every site. We always have a blast when we go. Kids absolutely love it, easy access to the water, quiet, and very nice!!" says Laci P. about Mozingo Lake County RV Park.
Playground access: "There is a playground for children and a pretty nice shower house," notes Tori G., highlighting family-friendly amenities at Mozingo Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: "We stayed here 1 night while passing through. Easy access from the highway. The staff and other campers were very friendly. Large sites, many with trees," advises Zach H. about Victorian Acres.
After-hours arrival: "We came in after hours but called ahead of time and had a note in the night box explains everything in detail on what we needed to do. Great stay!" shares Caleb L., describing the convenient check-in process at Victorian Acres RV Park & Campground.
City proximity: For RVers wanting urban amenities, consider locations near metropolitan areas. "Essentially a parking lot with electric and water hookups, but only 9 minutes from downtown Omaha. Check-in at security window at Horseshoe. $40 weekday rate and $50 weekend rate," advises Stephanie C. about Bluffs Run RV Park at Horseshoe Casino.
Noise considerations: "Some highway and train noise whenever outside. Neighbor playing music outside late at night (after 10pm) which was annoying," cautions Maggie C., noting potential noise issues at Victorian Acres.
