Whiterock Resort
Guest Comments
Garst Farm Resorts has received very positive comments from guests, and our repeat visitor rate is very, very high. Here are samples of notes written to us, from many different groups ...... Couples, Solo Guests, Families, Family Reunions, Horse Riders, 805 River, Day Visitors, Party Groups, Lunch Groups, Slumber Parties, Retreats, Group Tours, School Groups, International Visitors and Hunters.
The staff of Whiterock Resort will carry on the same friendliness and caring for our guests.
"…you know how to take care of people and make it fun, interesting and educational " Ken and Meg
"…after a week of reflection on our new found getaway, we feel the memories we have of two days at the Garst Farm are much more precious than the 7 days in Cancun…How can we thank all of you enough for a beautiful mini-vacation? I have told all our friends and showed them pictures. Posted a few brochures in stores. I know the editor of the Moline Dispatch and plan to tell him about it, possibly get a feature article. I will also call the QC Times and talk to someone about a feature story!!!…" Heidi
"…thank you again for everything during our stay at your farm. We enjoyed every minute of our visit. The Roswell Suite was beautiful, the breakfast was great, and every person was kind and helpful. You have a great place! We hope to be back sometime soon!…" Bill and Ann
"…know how much Jeff and I have enjoyed our stay at your resort. It was our first B&B experience and certainly not our last! We look forward to bringing our 2 sons back with us after the New Year. Loretta was a hoot on our trail ride, and her daughter was a delight also. Jason was a courteous and helpful "shuttle guy" and put his life on the line to get our canoes down that river "cliff"! Your staff is superb…if I wasn’t raising 2 little boys, I’d want to do exactly what you do. I love it all. Hope to become a "regular". Good luck with everything…." Linda
"…you have an awesome place! I hope to see it at least once every season!! I bet it’s always beautiful…." Cathy
"…thank you for our stay at your farm. It was definitely one of the high points of our trip! Ruth’s breakfast was delicious and we really enjoyed hearing about your grandfather…." Mary
"…you know how much we’ve enjoyed our time at the resort. It is so beautiful and everyone is so nice. We loved our cabin and the breakfast and the riding immensely. I think you need an on-site physician and I’m willing to commute! Actually, I’d rather be the stable boy or wrangler-underling! Thanks again. Hopefully we’ll se lots of you this summer…." Carey and Jim
"…wanted to tell you how much we enjoyed our stay at your resort. Everything was great. Truman and I especially loved the bed in the Roswell room. That mattress is soooo comfortable that we have decided we would like to have one just like it. Please let me know what kind it is…."
"…thanks to you and your excellent staff for making our 21st wedding anniversary special. Despite having to take a few extra-strength Tylenol, we are prepared to stay with you again and even take another horseback trail ride! Loretta talked us into it in her easy-going way. Viewing Jupiter, Saturn, Mars and the constellations with David was spectacular. What a telescope! His knowledge and passion for astronomy was contagious – plus the weather was perfect! We wish him every success in his future teaching career. As we came and went throughout the weekend, Alicia was there to greet us with her warm smile. With her hearty breakfasts each morning, we were ready to tackle each day…." Sue and Bob
Back to Top"…Thanks for a wonderful "weekend"! At the risk of sounding syrupy, this was a dream come true. Woodland Cottage was the perfect place for me. Last year I was having trouble driving and look at me this year! Trail riding and a super model! Fabulous! Which leads me to: please send a copy of a picture you like (preferable one with Loretta and/or tell me what magazine/publication it will be in. That was very fun. What a great way to make a guest feel special! Next point: I’m seriously considering a winter visit. I’d love Christmas Eve at the cottage but am unable to guarantee a reservation at this time. I’ll have to take my chances, but would this be a possibility? Thanks to everyone, especially Max and our walks…." Marta
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"…thank you for the wonderful week my family spent at the Garst Farm this summer. We were always so busy having fun. The girls loved the evening horsebacking. My husband enjoyed the thrill of canoeing down the Coon River. And I found the most pleasure in just relaxing and being pampered. In the end, we all loved our farm experience…." Sandy
"…thank you for a very enjoyable vacation. It was one of the best we ever had…" Mark and JoAnn
"…wanted you to know we thought what you’ve done is a class act. We enjoyed our stay so much. Our room was wonderful, as well as the whole house. One thing that was so nice, was you personally showing us around the telling some of the history, since you are the granddaughter.. It was probably more meaningful to us since we lived there a short time. .. I spent half an hour telling our daughter all about the place -–all the decorating and everything that’s available….I’m sure too many people are going to find out about this place too soon (I know not from the business standpoint) but I want to come back…we can lounge in that great room and the family room. We love it. We just appreciated being out in the country – it’s such a treat, we even got a kick out of all your cows coming up to the fence and staring at us as we walked by…" Judy
"…the memories of the vacation we spent with you in August have really stuck with me…Thank you for your part in keeping my sanity…Our love to Loretta and Christine (and Jason)…." Paula, Jennifer, Ariel and Lucy Bear
Back to TopFamily Reunion
"…all were impressed with the accommodations at Oak Ridge and at the Home Farm…they couldn’t say enough about the homey atmosphere and the ability to be "at home" away from home for their family reunion. Linda and Jim from Okoboji also remarked on the living history aspects at the Home Farm and had toured your photograph display. Especially noted Elizabeth’s famous photo!…Thank you! For your gracious hospitality… and for making it all seem like your own family’s party. Your staff – Ruth, Jason and all the rest – do such a great job…" Chris
"…your thank-you note got to us before we got ours written to you! We all had such a wonderful time – everything was perfect! We just needed more time to do more horseback riding, canoe trip, trails, see the video etc. etc. Our whole family will never forget the fun we had. Thank you, Liz, you do a wonderful job of making everyone feel at home!…" Colleen and Gene
"…it is listening time for Ted and I to determine what our grandchildren remember most. It is a lot! We desired that they have a wonderful memory of Iowa, but more important is our memory of giving them a farm experience. It was all wonderful and all we expected. Caroline and Patrick are attempting to talk their parents into coming next summer so they can experience it all! Thanks for a wonderful experience. … Thanks to all your staff…." Randa and Ted
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Family Reunions
"…thank you for an amazing time horseback riding! I just can’t tell you enough how comfortable you make it for the city (dumb) slickers! My sister could not get over me on a horse! She rolled at my tale of adventure on Bud the wonder horse….Thanks for making me smile so much. I needed it! I’d love to come again!…" Merri
"…thanks for allowing the River City Roundup group to cross your land. Also for the great guide. Everyone thought it was wonderful!…" Mary
"…thank you for the wonderful time we had at Garst Farm Resorts June 24 – 30. The weather was great (for the most part) and the trails were even better. We’re all planning to return next year…." Yvonne
"…thank you again for a fabulous time yesterday! The scenery was beautiful, the riding was great and the company was super too! TJ and I appreciate all the hospitality you extended to us and we sat around last night just missing Patches and yes, even Bud! Thanks again, and we’ll be talking to you again soon!…" Jenny
Back to Top Bringing Your Own Horse? Trail Rides"…Robin and I spent a marvelous three days at 805 River during the Labor Day weekend. We especially want to thank you for the privacy, peace, and perfect natural setting that 805 offers. On one hand, we can’t say enough about the place. On the other hand, we can’t seem to tell anyone because we fear it will always be occupied when we want it. Nonetheless, it was a fabulous three day vacation. Thanks!…" Marty
"…we truly enjoyed our stay in the 805 cabin. Very relaxing and nice. Loretta was great on our trail rides and we talk about the rides often. Jason was a very nice young man and sure wanted us to be comfortable. Hopefully we can come back, and we might even bring our own horses next time. Thanks again for a memorable vacation…." Sharon and Merlin
Back to Top 805 River"…we all had a great time Monday at your resort. People are still talking about it! Your talk was interesting and fun. The food was excellent. You’ll probably be seeing some of us again at your resort since we enjoyed ourselves so much. Tell Loretta thanks for the fun trail ride and tell the help we enjoyed their friendliness…." Becky and Joel
"…your meal was great. Was refreshing to sit outside and have something off the grill. We had a great time on our Farm Tour. Your farm and what you do for the travelers is great for Iowa. It’s gong to be a pleasure to send travelers your way. A beautiful area…." Mary Lou and Donita
Back to Top Day Visitors
"…Thank you for Dad’s birthday party. We had many compliments on the setting, the food and the service. I’m giving full credit to Garst Farm Resorts when people tell me what a great party we gave. You and your staff were wonderful – you made it so easy for us, and enjoyable for the guests. Most important of all, Dad had a good time…" Beth
"…the party was overwhelming and I know you put far more into this episode than I am paying for. We have received many compliments on the facilities and there no place in the state that could be better suited for the birthday bash…" Doco
"…To the lady with a Plan B: As we watched the umbrella spinning around in the vase, we just knew that God was up there watching this. But maybe, what you didn’t know was that he also sent an "angel" that day. An angel with a Plan B! Norman and I want to thank you, Liz Garst, from the bottom of our hearts, for all that you did to make Mike and Robyn’s wedding day a success. Your professionalism, as well as your compassion, are never to be questioned. Thank you, Liz!…" Lila
"…our entire group thoroughly enjoyed our time with you and the Garst Farm Resort! It was most special to have you share with us the very enlightening story about the family history and the connection with those industries and Khrushchev. The dinner was delicious, very nicely prepared and very tasty. And the opportunity to get the personal tour of both the "old farm" and the "River House" was serendipity!…full credit belongs to you – and the outstanding job you have done in developing and using those facilities…." Jean and Scott
"…how much the ISU group enjoyed their reunion at the Resort. Soak up rave reviews from the 20 of us. I’ve written to Mark, Bob, David and Charles to thank them as well for taking time in their very busy days… Do tell Ruth, Patricia and the young lady "in the kitchen" as well as your horsewoman and the young man at the BBQ how pleased we are…We’re already talking all our friends into handing our brochures…" Bea
"…thanks a million for the "hayride event of the year"…you were great…" Pastor Gary
Back to Top Party Facilities Weddings & Other Parties"…thank you for a most delightful day at the Garst Farm Resorts. Everyone enjoyed the delicious food in the historic home much more than we would have in a stuffy tea room…..the "chats" by you and your father about your family history were very interesting…All predicted that the Garst Family Resorts would be very successful…" Lake City Monday Club
"…know how very much I enjoyed my stay in Hollyhock Cottage last weekend. Having such a wonderful setting to enjoy natural beauty I the company of friends is one of the best gift I’ve given myself in a long time…" Cece
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"…what a night!!! I wanted to personally thank you for your kind hospitality and the wonderful time we all had. (And a special thanks for the extra you added – the Gator Adventure for some of us)…we have gone several places such as to the Mississippi on a River Boat and to Minneapolis to see "Phantom" at the Chanhassen Dinner Theater. But I have heard many of the staff say that this was their favorite trip yet. I realize that the great weather played an important part in our activities, but somehow I think we would have had a good time anyway. I felt bad yesterday for the few that couldn’t make the trip because everyone was talking about the wonderful time and the great resort you have. You do have a great place, and I admire the knowledge and ambition you have for your project…" Green Belt Bank and Trust
"…Thank you for your hospitality while we "retreated" in Coon Rapids. The facilities were very conducive to a planning meeting. I have taken the liberty of spreading the word about the Garst Resort…" Agribusiness Association of Iowa
"…thanks so much for the wonderful event you put together for our guys last week. Your facilities are great, the food was incredible, and everyone really enjoyed themselves…" A Meredeth Magazine Group
"…our accommodations were wonderful! It was a most restful and re-energizing time for me personally and for the team as well. And the food…let me just say the additional couple of pounds were worth it…" Monica, RTS-ISU
"…thank you for providing such a warm and wonderful environment for our staff retreat last week. We certainly enjoyed our time with you and all the work you did to make our stay a pleasant one..." Geri, ISU Certification
"…we appreciated and enjoyed our stay at your resort. Everyone had a "great" time, despite a few hardships. Thanks for cooperating so nicely with us! We had everything we needed and more. Thanks also for the use of the 4 wheeler and the barn. It was so much fun!…" Glenn and Nancy, Ken and Deb
"It was at the Garst Farm that the women writers gathered
Not to complain about the weather or the mosquitoes,
Not to worry about their attire and makeup,
Not to regret the wrong turn that made their destination further,
But they came this way together
To watch the spectacular shooting meteorites in the magnificent midnight sky,
To hear how Iowa corn helped combat the Cold War,
To gather insight from their writing as this privileged group of women rejoice
In the company of each other." Jane"…enjoyed the labor meeting we had at the River House. You’ve done a lot and sounds as though the business will be successful. I’m going to plan a board retreat later in the year and will call you for possibilities…" Gene, Bluegrass Gardens
Back to Top Retreats
"…a great big thank you to you and your staff for an absolutely wonderful day at Garst Farm Resorts! Your hospitality, great food, and excitement about preserving the history of your family and the environment were very refreshing to us all. It was such a relaxing day trip for us – we have lots of good memories…" Marki, Prime Time Club at F&M Bank
"…what a wonderful time our group had at the Garst Farms yesterday. I originally had planned to make just a one hour stop at the Garst Farms on the way home from our Living History Farm trip we have planned in July. When I called you and you were telling me of all the interesting things you had to do, I reconsidered and decided to make a whole day trip devoted to the Garst Farms. Boy, am I glad I did! You were terrific hosts and I really enjoyed my day as well as the members of my club did….The atmosphere was very homey and comfortable and that made it very special. One of our favorite parts was the personal recollection of the day Khrushchev visited. Your storytelling abilities are great….I am going to write to my Senior’s Club Peer Group members and tell them of our enjoyable day and include one of your brochures. I hope you hear from them in the future and they will bring their clubs also…" Charlotte, City National Club of City National Bank
"…thank you so much for a wonderful day! Everyone had a great day. It was a great Mystery Trip…" Melanie, Heritage Club Director, First National Bank
"…I want to thank you for the great reception that you gave us…your presentation was very informative and given in a very nice and easy to receive way. Also, the food was very good and in a very good setting. I enjoyed the day very much and I hope you keep up the good work…" Frederick
"…thank you for a wonderful tour and lunch. I just wish we could have stayed longer. I wanted to look the farm and ranch over better at the tour. Maybe some day I can get back up that way…I would love the recipes for the casseroles we had that day, they were so good, as the buffalo burgers were…" Terry
"…our trip to Garst Farms was so special and you made it that way. What a great program, and you are a great hostess…" Mick and Judy
"…thank you for your assistance in making this year’s tour one of the most memorable in recent years. Our visit to Iowa was both educational and enjoyable and your farm was definitely considered to be a highlight of the tour by most of our participants. Lunch was excellent and your family’s history and farming practices wonderfully presented. Several participants expressed regret that we could not have stayed longer…" Ronald Woolly, District Extension Director, AG
"…for the delicious buffalo burger lunch and hilarious stories of grandfather Roswell by you, Elizabeth. Mary, I especially like your cattle presentation. I love to hear about cattle experiences of others and when a gal is running the operation it’s twice as interesting…." Bob and Nancy
Back to Top Group Tours"…thanks so much for the time, energy, and enthusiasm you put into the presentation…we enjoyed hearing the stories about your unique grandfather! Several students mentioned they would like to visit the farm resort again in the Spring…" Pat
"Thank you for the tour. It was very interesting." Nicole
"The house was very interesting and so was the tour. Thank you." Jessica
"I liked the house the best. Thank you." Breanne
"I really enjoyed the house tour and farm tour." Krystal
"I loved seeing the house. Your hospitality was greatly appreciated. Thank you." Randi
"The house was so neat." Libby
"Thank you for giving us the neat tours. It was a lot of fun!" Cassie
Back to Top School and Youth Groups"…these moments were extraordinary. I congratulate you on your efforts." Guillermo
"…thank you for the time and attention you dedicated to us…for showing us the land and the way of life. If I ever come back to your country, I would like to return and spend a while. Why? Because I like the land…" man from Peru
"…thank you for everything. It was a memorable trip. Welcome to India…" Hopper
"…thank you very much for the good time in the Garst Farm…" Menachem
"…thank you very much for your warm hospitality during our stay at the Garst Farm…" Lars
"…students have very much enjoyed learning about the history of the farm as well as being in the beautiful countryside and eating tasty buffalo meat for lunch. Thank you for contributing to the success of our fifth session….your support of the Iowa Council for International Understanding is greatly appreciated…" Jennifer Smyser, Iowa Council for International Understanding
"…on behalf of Iowa Council for International Understanding, we would like to thank you for your generosity in hosting our Russian President’s Management Training Initiative, Community Connections III visitors…" Ann Schodde, Executive Director, Barbara Mathias, Associate Director
"…thank you for your assistance and sponsorship of the recent UK media familiarization tour. The horse-back riding was a highlight! They were talking about it in Nebraska – it was such a hit…" Mark, Iowa Division of Tourism
"…an excellent tour from very friendly staff who made us feel very welcome…a great cross section of things to see and do. A varied insight into what Iowa has to offer. True pros!…well conducted, ideas on personal interests taken into account…" Comments from Canadian Travel Writers
Back to Top International Visitors"…the trip was more than a success with no shortage of good times and no shortage of birds, either…" Doug
"…thank you very much for showing us a great time in December…" Pheasants Forever National Staff
"…with the final pheasant hunt of the millennium in the rear view mirror we wanted to thank you for taking the time to attend and help make it an enjoyable way to spend a few days. We were treated to a variety of weather conditions (good, not so good and everything in between), the best food this side of the equator and an overall great time. Special thanks should be sent to Liz, Steve, Joel and Darwin. Their help in setting up the event as well as in pointing us in the right direction is much appreciated and doesn’t go unnoticed. Also a huge round of applause for our chef, whose efforts with our meals are hugely appreciated and continue to be unmatched…" Corporate/Client Group
"…thank you and the Garst family for allowing the National Wild Turkey Federation and myself the opportunity to both showcase your conservation efforts and to film a hunt for their television show. Carl, Bob and I were all impressed with your efforts to manage the natural resources. I hope the people that see this show appreciated the enormous efforts you and your family have undertaken to preserve the environment. If there is anything I can do to assist you in your efforts to maintain and achieve your goals in conservation, please let me know…" Michael
Hunting
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Back to comments from: Couples, Solo Guests, Family Vacations, Family Reunions, Horse Riders, 805 River, Day Visitors, Party Groups, Lunch Groups, Slumber Parties, Retreats, Group Tours, School Groups, International Visitors and Hunters.Back to information about: Family Reunions, Bringing Your Own Horse?, Trail Rides, 805 River, Day Visitors, Party Facilities, Weddings and Other Parties, Retreats, Group Tours, School and Youth Groups, International Visitors, Retreats, Hunting
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Contact Information
- Telephone: 712-684-2964
- FAX: 712-684-2299
- Whiterock Resort
- 1390 Highway 141, Coon Rapids, Iowa 50058
- whiterock@iowatelecom.net
