Warm weather days in the Hawkeye State are wonderful, but there's something special about sticking around when the sun goes down, and it feels like a whole new landscape emerges - especially when you're on the water. There aren't too many moonlit cruises in Iowa, but one of the best is hiding in rural Clinton County, in the tiny town of Camanche not far from Clinton. Located in Rock Creek Marina & Campground, Blue Heron Eco-Tours offers a smaller, more intimate tour of the Mississippi River aboard a pontoon boat, with a focus on the ecosystem of the Mighty Mississippi. While many of the tours leave in the middle of the day during the boat's May to October operating season, there are select trips on Thursday evenings that leave at 7 p.m. - leading to a stunning sunset boat ride in Iowa. The best part is, these public cruises are completely free of charge!
Rock Creek Marina and Campground is one of the most charming country getaways in Iowa - and it's also home to a unique boat tour.
Carrying 24 aboard pontoon boats, the Blue Heron Eco-Tours are a completely free way to see areas of the Mississippi most don't.
These tours are focused on the wildlife of the Mississippi, so expect some fascinating facts and animal sightings.
But there are some stunning views of the water, too, especially on sunny days!
While the daytime tours are definitely worth it, we recommend the 7 p.m. sunset tours on Thursdays for a rare look at the river as the sun goes down and the stars come out.
If you have time before you go, make sure to visit the nearby visitor's center to see some unique aquariums and dioramas.
Have you taken the evening trip on the Blue Heron Eco-Tours pontoon boat? Let us know about your voyage on this sunset boat ride in Iowa in the comments section! You can find out more on the official Blue Heron Eco-Tours website, or follow the Facebook page of Clinton County Conservation for updates on special events. It's only a short drive from Clinton, which we think is one of Iowa's best towns along the Great River Road. If you're in the mood for some luxury after your rustic river cruise, consider checking into the Wild Rose Casino & Hotel, which is found within the Clinton city limits.
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