Viking Lake State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Viking Lake State Park is an idyllic destination for outdoor recreation in southwestern Iowa. This 1,000-acre park completely surrounds the 136-acre Viking Lake. While the western shore is developed with park amenities, the eastern shore is undeveloped and a haven for wildlife. The pristine landscape includes open grassy spaces as well as thriving groves of trees. In the spring, vibrantly colored wildflowers often cover the grassy areas. These same grounds were once home to several native tribes over the centuries, and some of their artifacts were discovered in the area when Viking Lake was created.
Spring 30-74 F
Summer 63-88 F
Fall 30-79 F
Winter 15-38 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Viking Lake State Park
The campground at Viking Lake State Park is located on the southern shore of the lake and has 117 sites. Some of these sites are located directly on the shore. Nonelectric, 50-amp electric and full hookup sites are available. The maximum RV length is 126 feet, and select sites have pull-through access. Campers can take advantage of a playground, a boat ramp, a dump station, a water hydrant, and modern restrooms with showers. Buddy sites and shelters are available.
What to Do at
Viking Lake State Park
At Viking Lake State Park, the main attraction is the serene lake. The park features a swimming beach as well as four boat ramps for on-the-water activities. Fishing is permitted by boat, and six fishing jetties are also prime spots to cast a line. With hiking trails, a playground and group shelters available as well, the state park attracts visitors from near and far for outdoor fun.
Fishing
Anglers flock to Viking Lake to fish for largemouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, crappie, red-ear sunfish and bluegill. As a no-wake lake, fishing conditions are often superb by boat or from the six jetties. A fish cleaning station is available, and bait can be purchased at the concession stand near the swimming beach.
Geocaching
Treasure hunters can test their skills by searching for one of the hidden caches in the state park. Details about each cache's location are on the geocaching website.
Nature Watching
While Viking Lake State Park offers all the creature comforts that you need, its largely unspoiled landscape is teeming with wildlife. Some of the more common species that you may spot are white-tailed deer, ducks, turkeys and beavers.
Stargazing
Many flat, grassy areas in the park provide excellent views of the night sky. On clear nights, the still lake water beautifully reflects the moon, making for a great photo opportunity.
Hiking
Whether you are starting your day with a jog or out for a sightseeing adventure, the 6.3-mile White-Tailed Trail encircles the lake and is easy to navigate, which makes it ideal for starting your day with a jog or going on a sightseeing adventure. The Bur Oak Interpretive Trail covers 0.9 miles and is accessible at the southern end of the campground.
Boating
The four boat ramps are located conveniently throughout the park. Two of the ramps are on the western side of the park near the camping and picnic areas, and the other two ramps are on the northwestern and northeastern shorelines. While there are no boat size restrictions, Viking Lake is a no-wake lake. Kayaks, pontoons and canoes can be rented near the beach.
Swimming
The well-maintained beach area is easily accessible just beyond the park office. The beach area provides several amenities, including two fishing jetties, a boat launch, a restroom and a concession stand.
How to Get to
Viking Lake State Park
Viking Lake State Park is located just east of Stanton on Highway 34. From Omaha, Nebraska, travel south on Highway 75. Near La Platte, turn left on Highway 34. Follow Highway 34 through Stanton, and turn right on Q Avenue. Then, turn left at H42. This road takes you to the park office. From Kansas City, travel north on Interstate 29. Just north of Pacific Junction, turn right on Highway 34. After passing through Stanton, turn right on Q Avenue. Then, take a left at H42 to reach the park office.
Entering Viking Lake State Park
The park is open daily throughout the year. Parking is available near the park's entrance as well as near the restrooms, beach and boat ramps.
Viking Lake State Park Entry Fee : $0.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Viking Lake State Park
Viking Lake State Park is a year-round destination for both day use and camping. The peak season is from May 1 through October 15. While the nightly camping fee is higher during the peak season, the weather conditions are better suited for camping and water activities.
At Viking Lake State Park, visitors often spot white-tailed deer as well as turkeys, ducks and beavers. In the water, the lake is home to bluegill, red-ear sunfish, crappie, walleye, channel catfish and largemouth bass.
Yes, several camping spots feature full hookups, and some just come with water.
You can reserve a camping spot at Viking Lake State Park, but it is not required. A quarter of the campsites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Site costs range from $14 to $26 depending on the available hookups.
Pets are allowed at Viking Lake State Park. They should be on a leash no longer than 6 feet or otherwise confined. They must be attended to at all times.