Upon arrival I did not think this review would go so well. But upon departure I left with a new respect for the owners and a definite promise of my return. This is how that happened...

I got a basic motel room for the night (not a condo or balcony room) and upon entering the room I saw the most basic of accomodations. There was a window A/C unit which functioned well and simple furnishings. The bathroom was clean and simple as well. Everything was a little worn but I found it to be acceptably clean. The room to me was just that... a room. I thought to myself that when I come back I would stay somewhere much nicer and be a little better to myself.

Then I took a look around the grounds of the resort. I saw fellow vacationers spending time together outside of their rooms and near the beach. Dogs were playing together. The pool was basic but big enough for kids to have some fun in. The beach was big enough for everyone to have fun as well. The resort supplies a regular rowboat and a paddle boat with the cost of the room which was a nice touch. Also, the resort sets up a bonfire nightly and allows vacationers to continue to place the supplied wood on the fire until after 11pm. They also supply the tools used to roast marshmallows and make smores.

Then I remembered why I came there in the first place. First, I had a 100+lb dog with me. He was readily accepted with a minimal charge (the charge is the same for any sized dog). This resort gave me the opportunity to take my dog into the water and let him enjoy something he loves. I also realized that most other resorts on the water would not be accepting my dog at all. The resorts on the lake are quite upscale anyway, and I was not willing to spend 300+ a night to stay in a place like that. I wanted something economical, and I wanted something on the water. I got that (and more) at Delton Oaks.

Delton Oaks is owned by a couple in their retirement years. They have found a way to make their business stand out among the classy waterside resorts. Their draw is they allow dogs and they allow families to afford a lakefront vacation at a fraction of the price. Kids don't care that their bed doesn't have a sleep number mattress, they just want to have fun. I rested quite easily when I stayed there as I enjoyed a long day of hiking and playing with my dog and enjoying the Dells at night. The point is, you should be out there having fun all day and it really won't matter where you lay your head at night. You want a clean place to lay your head, and this is what you get. Delton Oaks never claimed to have ritzy accomodations. That is not their claim to fame. What they do claim they come through with, you will be able to bring your dog or dogs and you will have nice grounds with plenty of free activities as well as be able to make new friends.

The actual motel could certainly use an update, but it will do as is for now. Remember, Lake Delton drained a few years ago and ruined the local economy in the Dells, especially for lake side businesses. These businesses did not receive monies from local government, insurance companies or tax deductions. Businesses are still recovering from this, and fortunately for the owners of Delton Oaks, I and many others will return for the hospitality provided and the excellent surroundings.