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Northern Iowa has always held a special place in my heart for its hidden gems and tranquil settings. If you’re like me and seek out places where peace and quiet reign supreme, then you’ll appreciate the secluded neighborhoods that dot this picturesque region.
From rolling hills to dense forests, these communities offer a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. I’ve explored many of them, and I’m excited to share some of my favorites with you.
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Whether you’re considering a move or simply curious about these serene locales, join me as we count down 10 of the most secluded neighborhoods in Northern Iowa.
10. New Haven’s Quiet Country Living
New Haven offers a quintessential rural lifestyle that I’ve found incredibly appealing. With spacious acreages and a population of just over 100 people, it’s the kind of place where you can enjoy solitude without feeling isolated.
The community is surrounded by rich agricultural land, and I often find myself taking leisurely walks along its country roads. The lack of urban distractions makes it easier to appreciate the simple pleasures of life here.
Where is New Haven?
Positioned in Mitchell County, New Haven is east of Osage and accessible via County Road A19. Its location is interesting because it’s situated near the Little Cedar River, adding a touch of natural beauty to the area. When I visit, I usually drive along Highway 9 and then take the scenic routes that wind through the countryside.
The journey itself is part of the charm, with rolling fields and blue skies accompanying me all the way.
9. Little Turkey’s Rural Haven
In Little Turkey, expansive farmland and minimal development create a peaceful environment that I find incredibly rejuvenating. This unincorporated community has a very small population, which means you can enjoy vast stretches of land all to yourself.
The area’s rich agricultural heritage is evident in the well-tended fields and historic farmhouses. Whenever I’m there, I appreciate how the simplicity of rural life takes center stage.
Where is Little Turkey?
Little Turkey is located in Chickasaw County, nestled among the rolling hills of northeastern Iowa. It’s accessible via County Road B44, making it somewhat off the main thoroughfares, which adds to its secluded feel. The nearby Turkey River adds a scenic touch to the geography, and I often find myself drawn to its banks.
Getting there involves a picturesque drive through hills and valleys that showcase the natural beauty of the region.
8. Highlandville’s Rolling Hills and Quiet Roads
Highlandville is a small community that I’ve come to associate with serenity and natural beauty. Its rolling hills and minimal traffic make it ideal for those seeking solitude. The area is popular among trout fishermen, with streams like South Bear Creek adding to its appeal.
With a population of around 35 people, Highlandville offers a tight-knit community feel while still providing plenty of personal space. The winding roads and lush landscapes here never fail to relax me.
Where is Highlandville?
Situated in Winneshiek County, Highlandville is tucked away near the Minnesota border. It’s accessible via Highlandville Road, east of Highway 76. The geography is especially interesting due to the Driftless Area’s unique topography, characterized by ridges and valleys.
When I travel there, I enjoy the scenic routes that take me through some of the most beautiful parts of northeastern Iowa, making the journey as rewarding as the destination.
7. Mona’s Peaceful Borderline Community
Nestled right near the Minnesota border, Mona is a tiny community that I’ve found to be the epitome of peaceful living. With expansive lots surrounded by open fields, residents here enjoy a quiet lifestyle away from crowded neighborhoods.
The simplicity of life in Mona is complemented by the friendliness of its small population, which hovers around just a few dozen people. Whenever I visit, I’m struck by the calm that seems to settle over the area, broken only by the gentle rustling of cornfields and the songs of local birds.
Where is Mona?
Mona is located in Mitchell County, right at the northern edge of Iowa. This borderline community is tucked away along U.S. Highway 218, making it relatively easy to find yet still off the beaten path. The proximity to the state line adds a unique charm, as you can easily venture into Minnesota for day trips.
To get there, I usually drive north from Osage, enjoying the scenic views along the way until the signs for Mona appear, signaling that tranquility is just ahead.
6. Bluffton’s Cliffside Hideaways
Bluffton offers a unique living experience with its cliffside homes overlooking the river. The stunning natural backdrops provide both privacy and breathtaking views that I’ve always found captivating. The community is small, with around 50 residents, fostering a sense of close-knit neighborliness.
I love visiting the Bluffton Fir Stand, a hidden gem that’s perfect for quiet hikes. The combination of seclusion and natural beauty here is truly unmatched.
Where is Bluffton?
Bluffton is situated in Winneshiek County, along the Upper Iowa River. Accessible via Bluffton Road, it’s northwest of Decorah. The geography includes limestone bluffs and dense woodlands, making it a picturesque locale.
I usually take Highway 52 and then enjoy the scenic drive along county roads that lead into Bluffton, where the majestic cliffs signal that you’ve arrived somewhere special.
5. Maple Leaf’s Countryside Serenity
Maple Leaf is a peaceful countryside community where large lots and distant neighbors foster a secluded atmosphere. With a population of just a handful, it’s one of those places where you can hear yourself think.
I appreciate the simplicity of life here, where the skyline is dominated by open fields and the occasional grove of trees. It’s an ideal spot for those who value privacy and a strong connection to the land.
Where is Maple Leaf?
Located in Howard County, Maple Leaf is north of Riceville and can be reached via County Road V58. The area’s gentle rolling hills and farmland make the geography soothing to the eye.
I find the drive there along Highway 9 particularly relaxing, as it takes me through some of Northern Iowa’s most serene landscapes. The absence of heavy traffic always makes me feel like I’m truly getting away from it all.
4. Kendallville’s Riverside Solitude
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Kendallville is a small community that offers riverside settings along the Upper Iowa River. The secluded homes nestled in nature provide a tranquil living experience that I find deeply restorative. With a population of around 35 residents, it’s a place where everyone knows each other, yet there’s ample space to enjoy solitude.
The river itself offers recreational activities like fishing and canoeing, adding to the area’s appeal.
Where is Kendallville?
Kendallville is located in Winneshiek County, northeast of Cresco. It’s accessible via County Road W14, which winds through picturesque landscapes. The proximity to the river makes its geography particularly interesting, offering both flatlands and gentle elevations.
I usually take Highway 9 and then enjoy the scenic detours that bring me to Kendallville’s serene setting by the water.
3. Gunder’s Vast Open Fields and Quiet Charm
Gunder is known for its expansive fields and rural charm, providing residents with spacious, private living. The community is tiny, with a population of around 27 people, which means you’ll often have vast stretches of land all to yourself.
I enjoy visiting the local eatery, The Irish Shanti, famous for its “Gunderburger.” The combination of good food and the peaceful surroundings makes Gunder a delightful place to spend time.
Where is Gunder?
Situated in Clayton County, Gunder is north of Elkader and can be reached via Gunder Road. The area’s rolling farmland and quiet roads make the geography soothing and ideal for leisurely drives.
I often take Highway 13 to reach Gunder, enjoying the views of open fields and the occasional farmstead along the way. The journey is a reminder of the simple pleasures that rural Iowa has to offer.
2. Dorchester’s Peaceful Valley Lifestyle
Dorchester offers a tranquil valley setting where rolling hills and open spaces define seclusion. The small population, which is under 100 residents, contributes to the peacefulness that I appreciate so much here. The surrounding areas are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and bird-watching.
I’ve always been drawn to the natural beauty that envelops Dorchester, making it a haven for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Where is Dorchester?
Located in Allamakee County, Dorchester is near the Minnesota border and accessible via County Road A16. The geography includes the scenic Upper Iowa River valley, which adds to its allure.
When I visit, I usually take Highway 76 north, relishing the undulating roads and panoramic views that lead me to this quiet community. The secluded setting makes every trip feel like a retreat into nature.
1. Burr Oak’s Hidden Woodlands Retreat
Burr Oak is perhaps my favorite secluded neighborhood in Northern Iowa, thanks to its serene forests and rustic landscapes. The small community of around 166 people offers living away from urban hustle like no other place I’ve found.
The area is rich in history, being the childhood home of Laura Ingalls Wilder, and I love exploring the local museum dedicated to her life. The woodlands surrounding Burr Oak provide ample opportunities for hiking and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Where is Burr Oak?
Burr Oak is situated in Winneshiek County, just south of the Minnesota border. It’s accessible via Highway 52, making it relatively easy to reach while still feeling wonderfully remote. The proximity to the forests and the Upper Iowa River makes the geography especially interesting to me.
Driving there, I often reflect on the simple beauty of the countryside and how Burr Oak encapsulates the very essence of secluded, peaceful living.
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