The idea for the Lost Island brand was conceived in 1991 during a Bertch family vacation as a fun way to give back to the Cedar Valley community. Land was purchased and plans were drawn up to erect the most spectacular water park Iowa had ever seen.
When the gates opened in June 2001, staff was unsure what they had gotten themselves into, but after 10 years of creating memories Lost Island decided to branch out with a KOA Kampground - themed as a tropical getaway, of course.
The camping industry was more unfamiliar territory for the Bertches, but with a focus on guests' needs and an eye for details, the Waterloo/Lost Island KOA became a top tier camping opportunity in the area.
Welcoming travelers from far away places had the Bertches thinking about more ways to attract visitors to Iowa. Many ideas were discarded before the vision for Lost Island Themepark became clear. It would once again be a premier attraction themed to transport guests as soon as they entered... Only this time there would also be a story.
Today, Lost Island Waterpark is one of the top-rated waterparks in the country, and the KOA consistently scores franchise awards for outstanding service.
As opening day for Lost Island Themepark draws closer, our crew is once again questioning what we've gotten ourselves into, but we are so excited for Guests to experience our newest Lost Island property.
We look forward to making memories with you.