Viking Lake

Viking Lake is a 1,000-acre recreational lake located in southwest Iowa near the town of Stanton. The lake was created in the 1950s by the United States Army Corps of Engineers as part of a flood control project. The lake is popular for fishing, boating, and swimming and has a beach and several boat ramps. The park surrounding Viking Lake also has several campsites, picnic areas, hiking and biking trails, and a playground for children. The lake gets its name from the Vikings, who were known for their long voyages and seafaring skills, reflecting the lake's connection to water and outdoor recreation.