Island Acres Resort Motel

08/19/2026

08/19/2026

We at Island Acres have a cabin from the Rippling River Ranch, the 'ferry boat' and drainboard sinks with their metal base cabinets from the Tex Lodge. Both the Rippling River Ranch and Tex Lodge were in the Iola area. Dave Primus has an excellent book, 'Under the Blue Mesa,' that covers much of the area's history. 'Go as a River' is a bestselling 2023 historical fiction debut novel by Shelley Read, set in Iola. That is also a great read!

https://www.uncovercolorado.com/colorado-abanonded-towns-under-lakes/?fbclid=IwY2xjawTyqXNwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4tddH53oMrJ_4uTvUdGvaOtRee1-yjfhhKJ_6o-X-HjgjGdtRDVrT7JcQZ0Q_aem_uTd8zTs0XG1u2c6cs7I7QA

What exists at the bottom of some of Colorado’s reservoirs might surprise you. To show you why, we’re highlighting some of the state’s long forgotten towns that have been abandoned and flooded over the years.

08/13/2026

We are enjoying hummingbirds and hummingbird moths, but haven't seen Monarchs in our butterfly gardens.
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The monarch migration is about to begin.

Along the way, they depend on native flowering plants to rest and refuel. Planting native wildflowers and milkweed in your yard or community is one simple way to help these remarkable travelers complete their journey.

Here's to safe travels, little monarchs.

Photo by Joanna Gilkeson/USFWS

08/12/2026

No catfish here. But roadside views are amazing!
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08/08/2026

From a past car show. The 2026 car show is next weekend!!!

08/06/2026

Leaf peeper season!

08/01/2026

Good news!

Given current water levels on Blue Mesa Reservoir, the Elk Creek boat ramp will remain open through the weekend — unless water levels drop quicker than expected. The park will assess the status of the ramp Monday. We’re keeping a close eye on conditions and will continue to monitor water levels and share ramp availability updates as conditions change.

✅ Check current water levels on the Bureau of Reclamation website: https://www.usbr.gov/rsvrWater/rsv40Day.html?siteid=913&reservoirtype=Reservoir
🏞️ Learn more about boating in Curecanti National Recreation Area, visit our website: https://www.nps.gov/cure/planyourvisit/boat-ramps.htm

Alt Text: A lake reflects the surrounding reddish, pointed, rocky peaks and squat evergreen trees, under a blue sky with puffy clouds.

07/31/2026

One week left of the 2026 rafting season!

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07/29/2026

It would be interesting to see if the Rippling River Ranch, located near Iola, is showing.
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