The best camping near Viking Lake State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Viking Lake State Park adventure.

Discover the serene beauty of Viking Lake State Park.

Popular ways to camp

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Viking Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Viking Lake State Park

Horse Creek Adventures

23 sites · Lodging, Tents170 acres · Sidney, IA

Horse Creek Adventures is a 170 acre ranch that provides an opportunity for visitors to stay one night or several days to enjoy the land and area sights. You have your choice as to how you want to stay. Our "off the grid" cabins offer a special opportunity to camp with a roof. The cabins are extremely popular! Check out the information about them and then check the photos posted by quests and read their reviews to give you lots of ideas of how you could enjoy these one of a kind sites. Tenting is available all over the 170 acres. You can tent by the pond; on top of the hill, or in a valley. These sites allow you to "get away from it all" and let the stress melt away. We have tenting sites close to a road to give you flexibility to see local attractions while enjoying the whole 170 acres. The land is part of the famous Loess Hills. There are hilltops to take in the breath taking views and valleys surrounded by trees. A pond full of trophy sized bass , catch and release, no license required. Wildlife abounds including a wide variety of birds. We have been described by avid birders as a rich place for birding. The area is rich with history-Lewis and Clark; French Canadian trappers and their Lakota wives established French Villages; Mormons came through here on the way to Utah; Jesse James played cards. Waubonsie State Park is close with hiking trails and seven miles of Horse trails. At night you can use a portable corral to have your horse close. End the day around a campfire, look at the stars and the lightening bugs and be serenaded to sleep by the coyotes and whip-poor-wills Enjoy !!

Two Old Hoes on Hippie Hill

4 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Stanton, IA

Learn more about this land: You can camp, wander, head down the road to Viking Lake. Easy, relaxing and not too many rules. I don't do trash, unattended firepits or really loud gatherings past dusk. I love to camp but, this is our oasis. We also have outdoor dogs that help keep the coyotes and wildlife at bay. The means that they may bark at night.

Green Grass Farms Camping

5 sites · RVs, Tents150 acres · Bedford, IA

Green Grass Farms was officially started in January of 2016. After being on active duty for years and having a disabled child, we decided we wanted to simplify and slow down our way of life. In November of 2014 our disabled son was put on a 100% "Real Foods Diet" and that played a huge part in motivating us to look more into what that really meant. What was the difference between farm raised and store bought organic food? What was the real benefit of not using hormones or antibiotics or pesticides? Which is better, grain finished or grass finished meat? So we bought the farm and started Green Grass Farms!Learn more about this land:The property is primitive with treed area and lots of grass. With sustainable livestock farming and ranging. We have a mix of chicken, pigs, and cattle on the farm. You would be staying in the pasture or in a wooded area. You can be next to the animals or next to our farm store near our corn field. There's lots of views of windmills and pastures/farmland.Happy to give farm tours outside of my working hours.

Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Council Bluffs, IA

This custom designed glamping lodge was a dream of mine for a long time. I wanted a place to go to unwind and be with one with nature. But! wanted it close to town so I do not have to travel far and still be close to the city attractions. The lodge backs up to a large hill--called the Loess Hills. Many deer, raccoon, possum and turkey call it home and so does a few pets of mine to include a mini horse and goat. They just love being adorned by new people. I think you will find this a perfect place for a good nights sleep. Learn more about this land: --Enjoy the deer setting amongst the tree's and nature. Hiking trails close by. Come enjoy a relaxing experience close to the city, the zoo and other attractions. MOST dogs are welcomed -- BUT need to be approved first! before booking. ADDITIONAL FEE REQUIRED> Walking trails close by! and restaurants. Verify with host before booking please. The bathroom/shower is located across the yard in the lower level of the main house. Thank you!

R View Farm

1 site · Lodging400 acres · Nodaway, IA

My wife and I wanted to raise our kids in the country as we both grew up on farms. The old farmhouse sits quietly and secluded from the road and the southern view of farm fields, woodlands and peace. The town of Corning or Clarinda are just 20 miles away if you desire small Iowa towns. Enjoy the sound of frogs, crickets and wildlife. Learn more about this land: Iowa farmhouse with ac/heat with woodlands, Enjoy rural Iowa, peaceful nights away from town and away from people. We have a garden in the spring, high speed internet if you want to stay connected or open the door and enjoy country air. 2 bedrooms upstairs and 2 downstairs. If you want to practice bow shooting or enjoy a bonfire we can accommodate that. Also room to park RV. We love pets but we ask that you pick up after them and keep an eye on them as there is plenty of room for them to run.

Kelly's Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Maryville, MO

Welcome to our unique campground, nestled in the heart of town yet offering total seclusion on 22 private acres. Positioned on the same ground as our paintball park that is closed for the season, our campground provides a serene and adventurous escape for all guests. Features: -Six Spacious Campsites: Each spot is adjacent to the campgrounds' picnic table, grill, and fire pit, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. -Scenic Setting: The campsites are located in a peaceful clearing adjacent to a woodline, with a cluster of trees at the center, offering a picturesque atmosphere. -Fully Functional Bathroom: Enjoy the convenience of a clean, fully functional bathroom (No shower at this time), as well as a hydrant supplying plenty of fresh water. -Prime Location: Despite its secluded feel, the campground is within walking distance of local restaurants and stores, providing the perfect blend of convenience and solitude. -Private and Safe: Enjoy the privacy and safety of our 22-acre property, designed to give you a restful and enjoyable camping experience. Book your spot today and enjoy the best of both worlds – secluded nature and in-town convenience!

The best camping near Viking Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

Gather up your fur capes and horn necklaces, and embrace your inner primal beast at Viking Lake State Park! This place is super popular for summer fun. Viking Lake is at the center of adventure with swimming, fishing, and boating (just don’t forget that sunscreen). Lakeshore camping makes weekend getaways a breeze, and even when the water freezes over winter snowmobiling and hiking still make the park a beautiful place to explore. Cycle the trails or bring the kiddos for some paddle boating, Viking Lake is your spot for a wild outdoor adventure!

Notable campgrounds

Viking Lake Campground - Offers a peaceful retreat with modern facilities and easy lake access.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, as the campground is popular during peak season.
Check for cancellations regularly, especially close to your desired date.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Explore nearby camping options if Viking Lake is fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Viking Lake State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer offers warm temperatures perfect for water activities, though it's also the busiest season. Winters can be harsh, with some facilities potentially closed, so it's less ideal for a visit.

Know before you go

Check the park's website for any alerts or closures before your visit.
Wear appropriate footwear for hiking and bring insect repellent to ward off pests.
Life jackets are recommended for all water activities.
Remember to pack out all trash and respect the park's natural beauty.
Accessible facilities are available, ensuring all visitors can enjoy the park.

Top parks near Viking Lake State Park

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Viking Lake State Park

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