Collins, IA

Collins is a quiet, close-knit town nestled among the rolling farm fields of southeastern Story County. Everything here is within a short walk or bike ride, from the local park and post office to the neighborhood churches. It offers the peace and open skies of classic rural Iowa, while still keeping you within an easy commute of Ames, Nevada, and the northern Des Moines suburbs.

Families share deep ties with neighboring Maxwell through the combined school district, with younger kids attending elementary classes right in Collins before heading down the road for middle and high school. The community comes together every June for Collins Day, complete with a hometown parade, softball games, and an evening street dance. Along with direct access to the scenic Heart of Iowa Nature Trail, it is a welcoming spot for anyone looking for small-town charm with plenty of room to breathe.