Donors and Local Fundraisers Help Build Iowa’s New Resort State Park

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.