Family businesses in Murray see success

The Mann family of Murray opened three new businesses this year, Prairie Ridge Camping, Prairie Ridge Driving Range and Prairie Ridge Boutique and More.

Darren and Raquel Mann decided to develop the land they had and open it up to families in the area to give them something fun to do. Darren is the owner os The Handymanns (for big and small jobs) and is also a realtor. Raquel has worked at Clarke County Dental Health Center as office manager for 25 years.

“We opened it to the public to be a fun family outing for people,” said Raquel.

While the couple took a year to plan and bring their businesses to fruition it’s been a dream of Darren’s for much longer. He had always wanted to own a resort in Minnesota but for Raquel Murray and Clarke County are home so when she wouldn’t move he decided to fulfill his dream here.

Darren always enjoyed golfing and thought the Murray community would too. Some future plans the couple have for the driving range is to add on some putting greens or miniature golf at some point.

The official opening was July 4 and even with the pandemic Prairie Ridge Camping has seen a good turn out.

“It’s actually been very, very good,” said Raquel.

There are 12 spots available for camping. Ten spots have full hook up which includes electric, sewer and water. Two spots only have electric and water hook ups. There are three buddy spots where groups can come and turn the campers to face each other sharing the same grassy space. Reservation should be made but if spots are not reserved it is first come first serve. Campers can stay as long as they want because the campground is on private land. There are three meters for long term campers to pay their own electricity.

“People can come and stay for the whole summer and stay in the spot they want,” said Raquel.

A water slide is going up at the campground soon and a swing set will be up in the near future. Other changes that will come to the campground is a shower house for those who prefer to tent camp and a bait shop.

Reservations for Prairie Ridge Camping can be made by calling 641-447-1090 or email info@prairieridgecamping.com.

While Darren and Raquel have the driving range and the campground, their daughter Sierra runs Prairie Ridge Boutique and More. The boutique is the only store of its kind in Murray. Sierra sells home decor and women’s clothing.

“Growing our business in Murray is definitely important. We need to have businesses in Murray,” said Sierra.

There will be a vendor fair at Prairie Ridge Boutique and More 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 8.

Prairie Ridge Boutique and More is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday thru Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays or shop online at www.prairieridgeboutique.com.

Prairie Ridge Boutique and More and Prairie Ridge Camping both have Facebook pages. All three Prairie Ridge businesses can be found at 2004 130th Ave. Murray.