If you’re like me and find charm in the quiet corners of the world, Southeast Iowa offers some hidden gems worth exploring. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, these towns provide a peaceful retreat where time seems to slow down.
From quaint villages with Amish influences to historic riverside communities, I’ve discovered places that capture the heart with their simplicity and warmth. Join me as I count down these ten secluded towns, each offering a unique glimpse into the serene side of Iowa life.
10. Cantril: Quaint Village with Amish Influence
Cantril, with a population of around 220, is a small village that exudes a unique charm influenced by nearby Amish communities. One of my favorite spots here is the Dutchman’s Store, a family-owned shop offering a vast array of goods from bulk foods to handcrafted items.
Strolling through town, you might see horse-drawn buggies, adding to the rustic feel. Agriculture is the mainstay for many residents, with farming and local trade forming the backbone of the economy.
What makes Cantril truly secluded is its tight-knit community and the unhurried pace of life that embraces simplicity. It’s a place where modern distractions are few, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of rural Iowa.
Where is Cantril?
Nestled in Van Buren County, Cantril is located in the southeastern part of Iowa, not far from the Missouri border. Its seclusion is partly due to its distance from major highways and urban centers, surrounded instead by rolling farmlands and quiet country roads.
I usually find that getting there involves a scenic drive through the countryside, a pleasant journey in itself. The nearest larger town is Keosauqua, but even that’s a small community, reinforcing Cantril’s peaceful isolation amid Iowa’s serene landscapes.
9. Hillsboro: Nestled in the Rolling Hills
Hillsboro, home to roughly 180 residents, is another tranquil haven in Southeast Iowa. The town is aptly named, surrounded by gentle hills that offer picturesque views and a serene environment.
I love attending local events at the community center or taking leisurely walks to enjoy the natural beauty. The primary industry here revolves around agriculture, with many locals engaged in farming and related activities.
Hillsboro’s seclusion stems from its small size and the extensive open spaces that separate it from busier locales. It’s the kind of place where you can truly disconnect and appreciate the simplicity of rural living.
Where is Hillsboro?
Located in Henry County, Hillsboro sits to the northwest of Cantril and is equally tucked away from bustling city life. The town is accessed via county roads that wind through farmland and wooded areas, emphasizing its remote setting.
Getting there is a delightful drive through some of Iowa’s most scenic countrysides, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. I find that the absence of major transportation routes contributes to its peacefulness, allowing you to fully embrace the area’s natural charm.
8. Libertyville: Small-Town Charm and Seclusion
With a population of approximately 320, Libertyville embodies the essence of small-town charm. The town boasts a close-knit community where everyone seems to know each other, and local gatherings are a staple.
One of my cherished spots is Dewey Park, a lovely area for picnics and relaxation. Agriculture plays a significant role in the local economy, with surrounding farmlands stretching as far as the eye can see.
Libertyville’s seclusion is characterized by its distance from urban centers and the enveloping tranquility of rural life. It’s an ideal place for those seeking a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle.
Where is Libertyville?
Situated in Jefferson County, Libertyville lies southwest of Fairfield. The town is nestled among expansive fields and quiet roads, enhancing its secluded atmosphere.
Accessing Libertyville involves traveling along Highway 1 and then venturing onto smaller county roads. The journey underscores the transition from city to countryside, with fewer cars on the road and more scenic vistas.
Its location away from major highways helps preserve the quiet charm that makes Libertyville a hidden gem in Southeast Iowa.
7. Leando: Life Off the Beaten Path
Leando is an unincorporated community with an intimate population that contributes to its serene ambiance. Though small, it offers a rich experience for those who appreciate solitude and nature.
I enjoy exploring the nearby Des Moines River, which provides opportunities for fishing and canoeing. There isn’t a significant industrial presence, which adds to its peacefulness. Leando’s remoteness is a result of its position nestled deep within Iowa’s rural landscape, where the simplicity of life is a daily treasure.
Where is Leando?
Leando is located in Van Buren County, adjacent to Douds, often considered twin communities. Set along the Des Moines River, it’s enveloped by natural beauty and simplicity.
Accessing Leando typically involves rural roads that meander through the countryside. The journey highlights the area’s seclusion, with the surroundings becoming increasingly natural and untouched the closer you get. It’s a place where the absence of urban noise allows the sounds of nature to take center stage.
6. Pittsburg: A Quiet Escape
Pittsburg, another unincorporated area in Van Buren County, offers a quiet escape with a very small population. The town rests along the Des Moines River, providing scenic views and a peaceful environment.
I often find solace in the natural surroundings, whether it’s taking a leisurely walk or simply enjoying the riverside. There are no major industries here, which contributes to the unhurried pace of life. Pittsburg’s seclusion is enhanced by its untouched landscapes and the feeling that it’s a step back in time to simpler days.
Where is Pittsburg?
Situated near Keosauqua, Pittsburg is accessible via county roads that follow the curves of the Des Moines River. Its location away from major thoroughfares makes it a hidden corner of Southeast Iowa.
The drive to Pittsburg is scenic, passing through woodlands and open fields, further emphasizing its secluded setting. The town’s remote position means fewer visitors, allowing those who do make the trip to enjoy the tranquility undisturbed.
5. Kilbourn: Hidden Along the Riverbanks
Kilbourn is a small community with an estimated population of under 50, making it one of the most secluded spots I’ve visited. Located near the Des Moines River, it offers a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.
The area is characterized by vast farmlands and forests, with agriculture being the primary occupation for residents. What sets Kilbourn apart is its hidden location along the riverbanks, giving it an air of exclusivity and serenity. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
Where is Kilbourn?
Found in Van Buren County, Kilbourne is nestled between Keosauqua and Selma. The town is reached by traveling along lesser-known roads that weave through the countryside.
Its seclusion is heightened by the journey itself, as you pass through increasingly remote and natural surroundings. Kilbourne’s location along the Des Moines River enhances its secluded feel, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking peace and quiet.
4. Troy: Rural Serenity at Its Finest
Troy is a tiny unincorporated community that epitomizes rural serenity. With a population of just around 20, it offers an intimate setting where the landscape is dominated by rolling farmlands and open skies.
I enjoy the simplicity of life here, where daily rhythms are set by nature rather than the clock. Agriculture is the lifeblood of Troy, and many residents are involved in farming and livestock rearing. Its seclusion is not just about location but also about a lifestyle that holds onto traditional rural values.
Where is Troy?
Located in Davis County, Troy is southwest of Bloomfield and is accessible via county roads that traverse picturesque farmland. The town’s remote position away from major roads contributes significantly to its secluded atmosphere.
Reaching Troy feels like a journey back in time, as modern distractions fade away. The sweeping vistas and quiet roads leading there are part of the charm, underlining Troy’s status as a haven of rural tranquility.
3. Selma: Quiet Living in Van Buren County
Selma, with a population nearing 50, offers a peaceful lifestyle amidst vast open spaces. The town provides a glimpse into Iowa’s rural heritage, with modest homes and friendly locals. I enjoy visiting the nearby river areas and soaking in the calmness that Selma exudes.
Agriculture and small-scale trade are central to the community, with residents valuing the simplicity of country living. Selma’s seclusion is accentuated by its sparse population and the enveloping farmlands that seem to stretch endlessly.
Where is Selma?
Situated in Van Buren County, Selma lies northeast of Keosauqua along Highway 16. Despite its proximity to this highway, the town maintains a quiet profile due to its small size and the surrounding rural landscape.
Accessing Selma is straightforward yet feels like stepping away from the fast-paced world. The town’s setting amidst expansive fields and minimal development ensures a secluded ambiance that’s hard to find elsewhere.
2. Douds: A Peaceful Hamlet Amidst Nature
Douds is a serene unincorporated community with a population of around 150. Nestled along the Des Moines River, it offers ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying nature.
I appreciate the historic Douds Stone House, a local landmark that adds character to the town. The main industries revolve around agriculture and small businesses that cater to the community’s needs. Douds’ seclusion is a result of its riverside location and the miles of countryside that buffer it from larger towns.
Where is Douds?
Located in Van Buren County, Douds is accessible via Highway 16 and sits west of Selma. The town’s placement along the river enhances its secluded feel, with the surrounding woodlands adding to the sense of isolation.
Traveling to Douds includes crossing scenic bridges and winding through peaceful roads. The limited traffic and serene environment make it clear why Douds is a haven for those seeking a quiet retreat.
1. Bentonsport: A Historic Riverside Gem
Bentonsport is a charming unincorporated village with a rich history and a population of just around 40. Known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings, it feels like stepping into the past. I love exploring the historic district, visiting artisan shops, and walking across the old iron bridge that spans the Des Moines River.
Tourism centered on its history and crafts is significant, though it doesn’t detract from the tranquility. Bentonsport’s seclusion comes from its small size, historic ambiance, and the surrounding natural beauty that provides a serene backdrop.
Where is Bentonsport?
Situated in Van Buren County along the Des Moines River, Bentonsport lies west of Keosauqua. The town is accessed via rustic roads that follow the river’s course, enhancing its secluded charm.
The journey involves peaceful drives through wooded areas and past quaint farms. Bentonsport’s location away from major highways and its emphasis on preservation make it a unique and secluded destination in Southeast Iowa. It’s a place where history and nature intertwine, offering a tranquil escape from the modern world.
