Kossuth County: Discover Nature, Culture and History

Kossuth County reveals a diverse side: Vast natural areas, lakes and river landscapes meet an unusually tangible history centered around Algona. Those looking for a vacation rental or holiday home can tailor their stay to their own interests – with days spent in nature, cultural discoveries and regional experiences.

Nature between Lake, Prairie and River

The Kossuth County Conservation Board manages 31 areas covering a total of just over 2,300 acres. They serve as places for outdoor recreation and habitats for wildlife. A notable destination is Smith Lake County Park, with a 54-acre lake and a hiking trail. This makes it possible to combine time by the water with exercise in the open landscape, without having to commit to just one type of trip.

The plant life also makes the region interesting. More than 85 species of wildflowers and native grasses have been identified in the H.M. and Eva Smith Prairie. Among them are one species on the state list and one on the federal list of threatened species. Fishing and access to the East Fork of the Des Moines River are available in the Devine Wildlife Area. The Hurlburt Wildlife Area includes floodplain forest, native prairie, pastureland and areas enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program.

The 138-acre Ambrose A. Call State Park is characterized by hilly terrain and old-growth trees and is located near the East Fork of the Des Moines River in Kossuth County. Those who make nature experiences the focus when choosing accommodation will find specific themes for planning each day in these areas: water, forest, prairie, wildlife and different ways to stay active.

History and Culture in Algona

A visit to Algona leads to several distinctive chapters in the town’s history. The history of Camp Algona includes a total of 10,000 German prisoners of war who stayed there from April 1944 to February 1946. The Camp Algona POW Museum presents exhibits, personal accounts and artifacts about World War II, Camp Algona, German prisoners of war, as well as local service members. Recovered artworks, woodwork, theater productions and writings are also presented in an exhibition.

The Algona Nativity Scene is also part of the remembrance of this period. It was created by prisoners of war at Camp Algona and donated to Algona after World War II. Another historical highlight is the Louis Sullivan Building. Algona businessman Henry C. Adams commissioned and had it built in 1913 as a land and loan office. The building in downtown Algona is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Active Days and Regional Discoveries

For walks, runs and bike rides, Algona’s recreational trail offers an approximately two-mile-long, paved and scenic route. Algona Raceway provides a completely different experience: Races are held on Thursday evenings in summer on the 4/10-mile track. Both options appeal to different travel preferences and can help make your stay more varied.

Smaller, unusual destinations also deserve attention. The working model railroad collection at Benschoter Train Station includes a 40-by-60-foot train layout. The Kossuth County Agriculture & Motorsports Museum is accessible to visitors with disabilities at the entrance and on both floors. Those who want to discover regional products can find locally grown fruits and vegetables, homemade baked goods, jams, honey and handcrafted gifts at the Kossuth County Farmers Market in Algona. Vines are grown on approximately two acres at Plum Creek Winery near Algona.

Choose the Right Accommodation for Your Travel Interests

When looking for a vacation rental in Kossuth County, it is worth determining your preferred focus first. Nature lovers can plan their trip around lakes, prairies, rivers and hiking trails. Those who prefer history and culture can focus on Algona, the Camp Algona POW Museum, the Louis Sullivan Building and the model railroad collection. For families with different interests, this selection offers the opportunity to combine active, historical and relaxing activities.

Other destinations in the broader area: Bremer County, Fremont County, Calhoun County, Madison County, Henry County, Scott, Grundy County.

To the broader travel overview: Iowa.