Upper Iowa Resort Introduce
Welcome, Iowa adventurers, to an in-depth exploration of Upper Iowa Resort, a truly remarkable destination nestled in the serene landscapes of Dorchester, IA. For those of us living in the Hawkeye State, discovering a camping spot that offers both relaxation and engaging activities for the whole family is a real treasure. Upper Iowa Resort stands out as just such a place, providing an exceptional experience whether you prefer the rustic charm of tent camping or the comforts of a cozy cabin. We understand the importance of finding a clean, enjoyable, and welcoming environment for your outdoor escapes, and this resort consistently delivers on all fronts, making it a prime choice for Iowa locals seeking their next great adventure.
Upper Iowa Resort isn't just another campground; it's a place where memorable family experiences are made, where peace and quiet coexist with fun and excitement. It’s the kind of spot that, once discovered, often becomes a regular fixture in your outdoor plans. We'll delve into its convenient location, the impressive array of services available for various camping styles, and the unique features that make it a standout choice for residents across Iowa. From its sparkling clean facilities to its family-friendly amenities, Upper Iowa Resort is designed to provide an unforgettable outdoor escape, truly living up to its reputation as an "incredible" and "amazing" destination for those of us who call Iowa home.
Upper Iowa Resort is ideally situated at 578 Lonnings Dr, Dorchester, IA 52140, USA. This prime location places it in the picturesque northeastern corner of Iowa, a region renowned for its rolling hills, scenic bluffs, and the beautiful Upper Iowa River. For many Iowans, this means a manageable and enjoyable drive to reach a true escape from the everyday hustle and bustle. The resort's setting in Dorchester offers a perfect balance of secluded natural beauty while still being accessible from various parts of the state.
For those traveling from larger Iowa cities like Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, or even Des Moines, the drive to Dorchester provides a gradual transition from urban environments to the tranquil rural landscapes that define much of our state. The well-maintained state and county roads leading to the resort ensure a smooth journey, making it easy for families to pack up and go for a weekend or longer vacation without excessive travel fatigue. The address is straightforward, ensuring that navigating to the resort is as stress-free as the stay itself.
Furthermore, the location in northeastern Iowa provides ample opportunities for exploration beyond the campground. The Upper Iowa River, famous for canoeing and fishing, is typically nearby, offering additional recreational activities. The region's natural beauty, characterized by its unique geological features and abundant wildlife, adds to the appeal of staying at Upper Iowa Resort. Its accessibility combined with its stunning natural surroundings makes it an excellent choice for Iowans looking to immerse themselves in the state's outdoor wonders, ensuring that both the journey and the destination are part of a wonderful experience.
Upper Iowa Resort offers a range of services designed to accommodate various camping preferences, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all guests. The emphasis on cleanliness and family-friendly amenities is consistently highlighted.
Tent Camping Options: For those who love the traditional outdoor experience, the resort provides excellent tent camping sites. These sites are noted for their cleanliness, offering a pristine environment for pitching your tent and enjoying nature.
Cabin Rentals: For families or groups seeking more comfort, Upper Iowa Resort offers cabin accommodations. Reviews indicate that these cabins are very clean, providing a cozy and enjoyable alternative to tent camping while still being immersed in the resort's atmosphere.
Swimming Pool Access: A major draw for families, the resort features an "incredible" swimming pool. This amenity provides a fantastic way to cool off, relax, and have fun, especially during the warmer months, contributing significantly to the overall enjoyment of the stay.
Kid-Friendly Park: The presence of a "park" that kids love indicates dedicated play areas for children. This service ensures that younger guests have ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and fun, making it a very family-friendly destination.
Clean Facilities: Across the board, both campsites and cabins, and presumably common areas, are consistently praised for being "very clean." This commitment to cleanliness extends to all aspects of the resort, ensuring a hygienic and pleasant environment for all visitors.
Relaxing Atmosphere: The resort cultivates a "quiet & relaxing" environment. This service provides a peaceful retreat for campers looking to unwind and escape the noise of daily life, fostering a sense of tranquility throughout their stay.
Responsive Caretaker/Staff: While not explicitly listed as a service, the presence of a "caretaker was quick to handle the situation" regarding disruptive behavior indicates a responsive and attentive staff. This ensures that the peaceful atmosphere is maintained and any issues are addressed promptly, contributing to a more enjoyable experience for everyone.
Upper Iowa Resort distinguishes itself with several key features and highlights that contribute to its "incredible" and "amazing" reputation among visitors. These elements combine to create a truly memorable camping experience.
Versatile Accommodation Options: A major highlight is the availability of both well-maintained tent campsites and very clean cabin rentals. This versatility caters to different comfort levels and preferences, making it accessible for a wider range of campers, from rugged adventurers to those seeking a more glamping-style experience.
Outstanding Swimming Pool: The "incredible" pool is a standout feature, particularly for families. Its high quality and enjoyment factor make it a central point for recreation and relaxation, adding significant value to a stay, especially during the warmer Iowa summers.
Impeccable Cleanliness: Consistently highlighted by reviews, the "very clean" state of the cabins and campsites is a critical feature. This dedication to cleanliness across the board provides a comfortable and inviting environment, distinguishing it from less well-maintained campgrounds.
Quiet and Relaxing Ambiance: The atmosphere is consistently described as "quiet & relaxing." This focus on tranquility is a significant draw for those looking to escape the noise and stress of daily life, making it an ideal retreat for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.
Kid-Friendly Amenities: The presence of a park that "kiddo loved" underscores the resort's commitment to being family-friendly. Having dedicated, enjoyable spaces for children ensures that younger guests are entertained, contributing to a positive experience for the whole family.
Exceptional Staff and Management: While the review mentions a specific incident, the quick and effective response by the caretaker highlights responsive and attentive management. This indicates a commitment to ensuring a positive experience for all guests and maintaining the peaceful environment, even when minor issues arise.
Strong Repeat Visitor Appeal: The sentiment of "We will definitely be back!" and "This WILL be our regular campground going forward" speaks volumes about the overall satisfaction and quality of the resort. Such strong customer loyalty is a testament to its consistent excellence and enjoyable atmosphere.
Discovery and Recommendation: One reviewer finding it "by mistake when our previously chosen campground was overbooked" and then proclaiming it "amazing" and highly recommending it, further solidifies its reputation as a hidden gem that exceeds expectations.
For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Upper Iowa Resort, please use the following contact details:
Address: 578 Lonnings Dr, Dorchester, IA 52140, USA
Phone: (563) 568-3263
Mobile Phone: +1 563-568-3263
Upper Iowa Resort is an exceptional choice for Iowa locals for a multitude of compelling reasons, making it a prime destination for your next outdoor adventure. Its location in Dorchester, IA, in the scenic northeastern part of the state, provides an accessible yet truly immersive natural escape. For residents across Iowa, the drive is manageable, offering a convenient way to disconnect from daily routines and reconnect with nature without extensive travel. This ease of access encourages both spontaneous weekend getaways and planned longer vacations, making the most of our beautiful Hawkeye State.
The resort’s commitment to providing "very clean" campsites and cabins is a significant advantage for Iowans who value comfort and hygiene in their outdoor experiences. This attention to detail ensures a stress-free environment where you can truly relax and enjoy your surroundings, whether you're roughing it in a tent or enjoying the comforts of a cabin. The "incredible" swimming pool is a massive draw, especially during our warm Iowa summers. It offers a fantastic way for families to cool off and have fun, adding a resort-like feel to a traditional camping trip.
Furthermore, Upper Iowa Resort truly shines as a family-friendly destination. The dedicated park that "kiddo loved" ensures that younger campers have plenty of engaging activities, keeping them entertained and happy throughout the stay. This focus on family fun, combined with the "quiet & relaxing" atmosphere, means that adults can unwind while children create cherished memories. The responsiveness of the staff, as noted in reviews, also contributes to a worry-free experience, as any minor issues are handled promptly, maintaining the peaceful ambiance.
The strong positive feedback from previous visitors, with many stating they "will definitely be back" and highly recommending the place, speaks volumes about the consistent quality and enjoyable experiences offered here. For Iowa locals, finding such a highly-rated and beloved campground can truly become a regular family tradition, a place to return to year after year for reliable fun and relaxation. Upper Iowa Resort is not just a place to stay; it’s a destination that perfectly caters to the desires of Iowans seeking quality outdoor recreation, comfort, and unforgettable family moments, making it a true local gem.
Upper Iowa Resort Photos










Upper Iowa Resort Location
Upper Iowa Resort
578 Lonnings Dr, Dorchester, IA 52140, USA
Upper Iowa Resort Reviews
this place is incredible. we tent camped- rest of the family stayed in a cabin and it couldn’t have been more enjoyable. pool was incredible. quiet & relaxing. cabin and campsite were very clean. kiddo loved the park. we will definitely be back!
Jul 02, 2025 · Elizabeth TinkThis place is amazing!I'm so glad we found it by mistake when our previously chosen campground was overbooked.This WILL be our regular campground going forward, and we highly recommend checking it out for yourself. It's perfect for families, and the owners/ staff are wonderful!Now, if I could leave a review for the parents of the disrespectful kids, I'd have more to say but the caretaker was quick to handle the situation for the parents as they couldn't seem to adult on there own... 😆
Aug 07, 2024 · Justin JacksonWell, let me tell ya, Upper Iowa Resort is a little slice of heaven right here in the Driftless Region. We rolled in with a big ol' group and had ourselves one helluva time. That spring-fed swimming pool? It’s like findin’ a California beach, smack dab next to the Iowa River. Cool, clear, and just what the doctor ordered after a long day.I gotta give a shoutout to Tessa and her crew. They’re as down-to-earth as they come, always ready to lend a hand or crack a smile. One day, we decided to float down the Iowa River in our innertubes, and wouldn’t ya know it, Tessa herself shuttled us upriver. Talk about service!Now, when we first got there, the wife was a bit uneasy about the lack of cell service—no bars in sight—but let me tell ya, it ended up bein’ the best thing ever. Nothin’ but us and the great outdoors, with no distractions. And if you do need to plug back in, the park’s free internet is fast as lightning, so you won’t miss a beat.Upper Iowa Resort is a real-deal treasure, and we’re mighty grateful to Tessa and the folks there for keepin’ this place runnin’ strong. If you’re lookin’ for a spot where the air’s fresh, the water’s cool, and the people are good as gold, this is it. We’ll be back for sure!
Aug 25, 2024 · Tom ONeillWe had a fabulous afternoon canoe trip down Upper Iowa River! The water was calm and we saw some interesting wildlife. Everything went smoothly with the rental and ride to the boat launch.
May 27, 2025 · WWe have stayed at the Upper Iowa every summer since I was a kid! The owners are kind and accommodating. The campground is beautiful. The pool and the river are inviting on warm sunny days. It's one of our favorite places to camp!
Feb 15, 2024 · Angie Halverson
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