Welcome to an exciting conversation about a truly unique Midwest getaway! Today, I’m thrilled to chat with Katarina Railko, a hospitality expert with a deep passion for travel and tourism. With years of experience in creating memorable experiences, Katarina has become a leading voice in entertainment and events, often speaking at expos and conferences. She’s here to share her insights on Yurt Glamping on a Magical Goat Farm in Chelsea, Iowa—a hidden gem that blends cozy accommodations with farm charm. We’ll dive into what inspired this one-of-a-kind glamping experience, the magic of fall in Iowa, the quirky animal interactions, and the delightful extras that make a stay here unforgettable.
How did the idea of creating a glamping experience like Yurt Glamping on a Magical Goat Farm in Chelsea, Iowa, first come to life for you?
I’ve always been drawn to unique travel experiences that connect people with nature in unexpected ways. The idea for the goat farm glamping came from a desire to offer something different—a place where guests could escape the hustle and bustle and truly unwind. Chelsea, with its serene landscapes in the Bohemian Alps region, felt like the perfect spot. It started as a vision of blending rustic charm with a touch of luxury, and it just grew from there into this magical farm setting.
Why did you decide on yurts as the centerpiece of this experience rather than more conventional options like cabins or tents?
Yurts have this incredible balance of being both adventurous and comfortable. They’re spacious—ours is 24 feet across—so you don’t feel cramped, and they have a unique circular design that feels cozy and inviting. Unlike a cabin, which can feel too permanent, or a tent, which might not offer enough comfort, a yurt gives you that ‘glamping’ vibe. It’s a little exotic, yet we’ve equipped it with modern amenities like electricity, heating, and cooling to make sure guests feel right at home.
What is it about fall in Iowa that makes a stay at your goat farm so special for visitors?
Fall in Iowa is pure magic. The air gets crisp, the leaves turn into this stunning mix of gold and orange, and there’s a quietness that just slows you down naturally. At the farm, this season amplifies the experience—guests are surrounded by rolling hills and farmland that look like they’ve been painted. It’s a time when people seem to breathe deeper, linger longer over coffee on the deck, and really soak in the peace of being away from city noise.
Can you paint a picture of what it feels like to step into the yurt for the first time?
Walking into the yurt is like stepping into a little sanctuary. There’s this immediate sense of calm—the soft light, the circular space, and the cozy setup with real linens on the beds just wrap you up in comfort. It’s not overdone or flashy, but it’s warm and welcoming. You’ve got room to move, a pull-out couch for extra guests, and a view right outside to the hills. It’s the kind of place where you instantly feel like you can let go of the outside world.
How do the animals on the farm enhance a guest’s stay and become part of their story?
The animals are the heart of the experience here! We’ve got goats, llamas, pigs, horses, ducks, and cats, and they’re not just background characters—they interact with guests in such a fun way. You can book a Llama Social or a Goat Social, which are basically hangout sessions where you get to know these animals up close. It’s amazing to see guests light up as they feed a goat or laugh at a llama’s curious stare. These moments turn a simple stay into a collection of stories they’ll tell for years.
What are some of the unique extras, like the Waffle Bar Breakfast or Piggy Popsicle Experience, that guests can enjoy during their visit?
We love adding little touches that make the stay feel like an adventure. The Waffle Bar Breakfast is a favorite—guests get everything they need to make delicious waffles right on their private deck, often with a goat or two watching curiously. Then there’s the Piggy Popsicle Experience, where guests help give our pigs frozen treats. The reactions are priceless—people are usually giggling or snapping photos as the pigs enjoy their snack. These extras are all about creating joy in the small, unexpected moments.
What’s one memorable interaction between a guest and an animal that still stands out to you?
Oh, there are so many, but one that always makes me smile was a family who stayed last fall. Their little boy was obsessed with the goats, and one particularly cheeky goat decided to ‘steal’ his shoelace—tugged at it until the kid was in stitches laughing. The whole family ended up sitting in the grass, just watching this goat prance around like it owned the place. It was such a simple moment, but you could see how much it meant to them to just be present with the animals.
How does the surrounding area of Chelsea, Iowa, add to the overall charm of a stay at the farm?
Chelsea is this quiet, tucked-away town in the Iowa River valley that feels like a step back in time. There’s no urban chaos—just wide-open fields, endless sky, and a sense of stillness. Nearby, you’ve got spots like Tama’s Lincoln Highway Bridge for a quick history fix or Otter Creek Lake and Park for a scenic hike. Even grabbing pie at a local diner feels special because it’s so genuine. It all complements the farm stay by giving guests a chance to explore authentic small-town Iowa while still having a peaceful base to return to.
What’s your forecast for the future of farm-based glamping experiences like this one in the Midwest?
I think farm-based glamping is only going to grow in the Midwest. People are craving authentic, hands-on experiences that let them disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature and community. Places like ours, where you can interact with animals and enjoy wide-open spaces, tap into that longing for simplicity and joy. I see more farms diversifying into tourism, offering unique stays and activities, and I’m excited to be part of that movement as we continue to innovate and welcome more guests to this way of travel.
