Storm Lake tourism surges this summer, strong local economic boost

Storm Lake recorded a notably busy summer season from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with signs that tourism is generating stronger economic activity across Buena Vista County. The community owned resort King’s Pointe logged 7,266 room nights over the 98 day season, up from 5,783 in 2024, and several summer weekends sold out well in advance. The outdoor waterpark counted 34,664 visitors, roughly 4,800 more than in 2024 though the true turnstile number is likely higher because season pass holders are counted once. Sunrise Pointe Golf Course posted nearly 8,500 rounds of play, an increase of about 450 from the prior year, while membership rose by 25 to 228.

Those figures signal greater demand for lodging, food and leisure services that support local jobs and revenues. Sunrise Park cottages had 260 rental nights and Sunrise Pointe Campground reported 154 staffed camping days, with visitors arriving from nearby counties and surrounding states and peak occupancy on holidays and weekends. Events including Kids’ Fest, the Star Spangled Spectacular, the Storm the Lake Sprint Triathlon and Duathlon, Wood Wine and Blues, and the Storm the Lake car show further concentrated visitor spending during summer months.

Many business operators credited the town’s blend of outdoor recreation and small town appeal. “Many families are discovering Storm Lake for the first time, or they are remembering visiting as a child and want to recapture that experience,” said Amy Von Bank, general manager of King’s Pointe Resort. “What we hear all the time is that people enjoy the laid back pace here in Storm Lake. Access is easy to the lake and the parks along the shoreline. It has all the amenities, but at the same time is not overly crowded and a person can get a boat in the water easily. People appreciate the opportunity to unplug and unwind.” She added that families in particular “are able to enjoy the beautiful parks, the newly renovated waterpark, the trails around the lake, unique shops and restaurants, and all of the other amenities. It’s exciting to see kids learning to fish, or just exploring.”

Campground manager Kim Woltman emphasized active outdoor use as a draw. “We see a lot of families coming to camp who enjoy the new playgrounds, attend the waterpark, hike or bike the LakeTrail, and enjoy shore or boat fishing. People don’t want to travel just to see things, they want to do things.”

Market indicators suggest the momentum could carry into 2026. King’s Pointe, winner of the Iowa Tourism Outstanding Lodging Property award, reports strong advance booking interest and will release next summer’s rates in mid January. Broader consumer data show travel remains a priority for many families, which may further support local hospitality and retail employment and tax receipts as Storm Lake plans for the coming season.