Why Is Honey Creek Resort Closed?

By Alice Nichols

Honey Creek Resort is a popular vacation spot located in southern Iowa. However, visitors planning a trip to this resort have been left disappointed as it has been closed for an extended period of time.

So what exactly happened to this once-thriving vacation destination? Let’s take a closer look.

The History of Honey Creek Resort

In 2008, the state of Iowa invested $72 million in the development of Honey Creek Resort. The resort was built on Rathbun Lake, offering visitors access to various recreational activities such as golfing, boating, hiking, and fishing. Additionally, the resort featured numerous amenities like a water park and several restaurants.

Why Did Honey Creek Resort Close?

Despite its initial success and popularity among tourists, Honey Creek Resort eventually began to struggle financially. In 2016, the resort was handed over to a private management company called Delaware North. However, even with new management, the resort continued to lose money and ultimately closed its doors in 2020.

There were several factors that contributed to the resort’s downfall. One major issue was its remote location; while it offered beautiful scenery and outdoor activities, it was difficult for many visitors to reach. Additionally, the resort struggled with low occupancy rates and high operating costs.

What Happens Now?

The future of Honey Creek Resort remains uncertain. While there have been talks of potential buyers interested in reviving the property or converting it into something else altogether (such as a retirement community or housing development), nothing has been confirmed yet.

In conclusion, while Honey Creek Resort was once a beloved vacation spot for many people in Iowa and beyond, its financial struggles ultimately led to its closure. While it’s unclear what will happen to the property now, we can only hope that some sort of solution will be found that allows this beautiful area to continue providing enjoyment for visitors for years to come.