Then it was time to do the dishes.

Rules at the cabin include cleaning up after yourself. They provide scratch pads, dish soap and a broom and dust pan for the floor. They even furnish the pots and pans, dishes, bowls and glasses, as well as silverware. So the only thing I had to bring was my food and appetite.

Then it was time for bed. Visitors should remember to bring their own bed linens, pillows and comforter.

It was a great night of sleep. The cabin provides a comfortable environment, especially as the wind whistled outside.

Wapello County Conservation Director Kurt Baker has high hopes for the new cabin, currently priced at $60 a night or $360 a week.

“If it goes over well, then we do plan on building more cabins,” he said.

When the project began last June, it was estimated to cost around $65,000. However, $10,000 more was spent to include electricity, septic and plumbing.

“We are really hoping that people are going to want to come out here,” Baker said.

Pioneer Ridge Naturalist Annette Wittrock said they have already had 10 reservations since the cabin opened last week.

“I think that is a pretty good sign,” she said.

Wittrock thinks the cabin will attract more visitors to the nature center.

“I know I would love to stay here,” she said.

Scott Niles can be reached (641) 683-5360 or via e-mail at sjniles@mchsi.com.