Several Iowa individuals and companies have made donations to help Honey Creek Resort State Park become a reality. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources recognizes the following organizations for their generous donations:

• Cargill — $50,000
• Iowa Trust and Savings Bank, Centerville — $50,000
• Peoples State Bank, Albia — $30,000
• First Iowa State Bank, Albia — $30,000
• Roger and Jan Winslow — $30,000
• Mercy Medical Center, Centerville — $30,000
• L and W Quarries/Ideal Ready Mix/Johnson Holding Company — $30,000

“Without the investment by these local residents, Honey Creek Resort State Park would still just be a dream,” said DNR Deputy Director Liz Christiansen. “Their dollars will bring dividends to all Iowans, both in economic development and tourism opportunities, as well as creating a showcase venue for Iowans to enjoy the outdoors.”

The organizations and individuals donating thus far worked with Rathbun Lake Resort, Inc. (RLR), a local fundraising group established by residents in southern Iowa to help bring a destination resort to Rathbun Lake.

In 2004, RLR was able to raise $4 million of in-kind and financial donations to match legislatively appropriated funds for the building of Honey Creek Resort State Park. Of this amount, $2.06 million came from utility infrastructure development by Rathbun Regional Water Association, Chariton Valley Electric Cooperative and Iowa Telecom.

Without the local matching, Honey Creek Resort construction would not have proceeded.

“We have always believed a resort would bring jobs, tourists, residents and improve the quality of life in this region,” said Kevin Kness, president of RLR. “We believe Honey Creek Resort State Park will be counted among Iowa’s greatest assets.”

To recognize contributions, donors have been able to choose name recognition signs throughout the resort, including at meeting and conference rooms, golf holes, cabins and more.

“We see this as just the beginning,” said Kness. “With continued corporate sponsorships and donations, we believe Honey Creek Resort will be one of the best tourism destinations in the Midwest.”

Several other organizations have also made donations, ranging from $1,000 to $25,000. Additional donation opportunities are available through RLR for individuals, companies and organizations that want to be part of the Honey Creek success story, according to Kness.

To learn more about donation opportunities at Honey Creek Resort State Park, contact any of the following RLR officers:

• Kevin Kness at 641-932-7887
• Carol Bradley at 641-437-7206
• Denny Ryan at 641-799-3861
• Bill Duey at 641-647-2464.

Moravia, IA - At Honey Creek Resort your family can experience a rush on a water slide, or enjoy a crisp fall evening on the shores of one of Iowa’s most scenic lakes.

Just a 90-minute drive south of Des Moines, this new, year-round destination will ensure visitors a great getaway.

Nestled on the shores of Rathbun Lake in Appanoose County, Honey Creek Resort accommodations offer stunning views of the lake, with two suites featuring cozy fireplaces, transforming a typical hotel stay into a delightful, peaceful retreat.

Guests can meander through wilderness trails surrounding the resort, or relax in overstuffed arts-and-crafts chairs in the sunny great lodge, which is graced with a massive mosaic fireplace.
The resort’s Rathbun Lakeshore Grille serves up classic American fare and has picturesque views of the lake; a warm fire is always burning. Starters include walleye fingers and baked mozzarella bruschetta, while main dishes range from applewood smoked turkey sandwiches to gooseberry broiled salmon.

Guests looking to experience excitement as the weather turns colder can head to the Buccaneer Bay Indoor Water Park.  Float on the relaxing lazy river, slip down the body slide, dance under a watery geyser or stand guard on the interactive pirate ship.  If you get hungry, guests can grab a treat from the snack bar and play all the latest video games in the arcade.

If golf is your game, there’s still time this season to enjoy the 18-hole championship Preserve golf course designed for the novice and experienced golfer. It is nestled in the prairie just north of the main lodge with bent grass tees, greens and fairways. The course has a full driving range, putting green and Club Car golf carts equipped with GPS.

The natural setting is sure to inspire both business and leisure guests alike, with a restful lake resort that boasts beautiful amenities and accommodations, in a natural setting.

Thoughtful staff will help guests connect with DNR naturalists, letting them experience everything from stargazing on an evening hike to lingering over a bonfire. An abundance of outdoor activities await year-round at the new outdoor destination, so prepare to enjoy every moment at Honey Creek Resort State Park.

For more information visit www.honeycreekresort.com or call 877-677-3344.