Natural areas with diverse habitats, reminders of World War II history, and local culture give Kossuth County several dimensions. When planning your trip, you can choose a focus, such as scenery and outdoor activities or museums, historic architecture, and seasonal events. The places and activities below offer concrete starting points for making that choice.
Natural Areas and Trails
In 2023/24, the Kossuth County Conservation Board managed 31 areas covering a little over 2,300 acres in total. They provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and serve as wildlife habitat. The areas each have their own character: Smith Lake County Park includes a 54-acre lake and a hiking trail. More than 85 species of wildflowers and native grasses have been recorded at H.M. and Eva Smith Prairie, including one species on the state list and one on the federal list of threatened species.
Devine Wildlife Area is managed primarily as a wildlife area; public use is mainly limited to fishing and access to the East Fork of the Des Moines River. Hurlburt Wildlife Area combines floodplain forest, native prairie, pastureland, and Conservation Reserve Program land. The 138-acre Ambrose A. Call State Park in Kossuth County offers a different landscape, with rolling terrain and mature trees, in an area of gently rolling farmland near the East Fork of the Des Moines River.
For walks, runs, and bike rides, Algona's recreational trail offers about two paved miles along a scenic route. It is intended for walkers, runners, cyclists, and others traveling on foot. This option can be distinguished from the natural areas, each with its own landscapes, based on the activity you have in mind.
History and Culture in Algona
During World War II, Algona was the site of a base camp for prisoners of war. A total of 10,000 German prisoners of war were held there from April 1944 to February 1946. The Camp Algona POW Museum focuses on World War II, Camp Algona, German prisoners of war, and local service members. Exhibits, personal accounts, and artifacts are on display.
The Algona Nativity Scene has a special connection to the camp's history: Eduard Kaib, Horst Wendlandt, Eric Knoll, and three friends who were prisoners of war at Camp Algona created it. After the war, they donated it to the City of Algona. The work consists of 65 half-life-size figures. Visiting hours are seasonal.
The Louis Sullivan Building in downtown Algona also connects architecture with local history. Businessman Henry C. Adams had it built in 1913 as a land and loan office; today, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Kossuth County Agriculture & Motorsports Museum, by contrast, focuses on the history of agriculture and motorsports. The entrance and both floors are accessible. If you rely on specific accessibility features, it is advisable to confirm them before traveling.
The museum also houses Benschoter Train Station, with a working model train collection. Its layout measures 40 by 60 feet. Its size and operating model trains provide a different focus from the historical exhibits, making the museum a separate stop for those interested in model railways.
Seasonal Events and Local Products
Races take place on Thursday evenings in summer at Algona Raceway, on its 4/10-mile track. Since the race schedule may change, check the dates before visiting. The Kossuth County Farmers Market in Algona offers locally grown fruits and vegetables, homemade baked goods, jams, honey, and handmade gifts. Market days and opening hours are seasonal as well, so check them in advance if the market is part of your plans.
Discover More Destinations
Algona, Shelby, Buena Vista County, Clay County, Woodbury, Clarke County, Jones County, Allamakee County
For the main travel overview: Iowa.
