Things To Do

Best Nest Farm offers something for everyone. Reconnect with nature on our walking trails, catch a glimpse of the abundant wildlife, or find yourself a spot for bird watching. Explore the lake on one of our kayaks. Cast a line into the spring/creek-fed lake. Enjoy the company of our furry barn friends. Take advantage of the country night sky for star-gazing. Enjoy conversation and s’mores around the campfire. Or just simply relax with a good book in your wagon.

Walking Trail

WALKING TRAILS

There is no better way to appreciate the diverse landscape of Best Nest Farm than a walk on the clearly marked and well-maintained trails on the property. Discover the beauty of the Loess Hills as you explore pasture, farmland and wooded hills. Walk the trail up to the tree swing, where you will have some of the best views at Best Nest. At the end of the day, enjoy a beautiful sunset from one of the many vantage points on the property.

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FARM FRIENDS

No farm would be complete without animals! Our friendly dogs Apollo and Scout may greet you on your arrival for hugs and pets, taking a break from patrolling the property and protecting the farm animals. We currently have five lovely alpacas who love carrot treats and selfies with guests! Our ducks, Dorothy, Mary, Alice, Margaret, Loretta and Claire, are very entertaining and also love treats.  And we would be remiss if we did not mention our barn cats Jasmine, Bert and Ernie. Ernie especially loves attention and often insists on being held. They work hard to keep our barn mice-free! Stay tuned for future additions to our farm friends…

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KAYAKING

 The private lake stretches through the wooded hills for almost a mile and has numerous fingers and branches that connect to the main channel, making it ideal for kayaking. We have five single-seat kayaks for your use along with various sizes of lifejackets for your safety. We also have a paddleboat which seats 3-4 people.  No better way to experience the tranquility and beauty of the Loess Hills than on the water.

Fishing

FISHING

The lake is over 35 feet deep in the channel and has lots of timber cover, making it a fisherman’s dream. Bass, bluegill, crappie, sunfish, and catfish are in abundance. Bring your own gear or rent a pole and tackle from us. All fishing on a catch and release basis only. An Iowa fishing license is required for those 16 years old and older. A day pass can be purchased through the link on our reservation site or by visiting the link below.

Lake at dusk

BIRD WATCHING/STAR GAZING

Best Nest Farm is home to a large variety of bird species and waterfowl. Hummingbirds, finch, purple martin, woodpeckers, orioles, nuthatch, red-winged blackbirds, kingfishers, blue jays, cardinals… too numerous to list! Some of our favorites are the owls, bald eagles, hawks, ducks, cormorants, Canadian geese, and our most beloved pair of blue herons, which you will see gliding gracefully over the lake. Bring your binoculars and your favorite bird app! After the sun sets, take full advantage of the dark country night to marvel at the starry skies.