Boating At Rathbun Lake In Iowa

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Rathbun Lake, situated in southern Iowa near the town of Centerville, is a picturesque reservoir offering a wide range of recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike. With its sprawling waters and surrounding natural beauty, the lake attracts outdoor enthusiasts seeking a serene and enjoyable escape.

Boating is a favorite activity at Rathbun Lake, and boaters will find several marinas dotting the shoreline, providing essential services and amenities. From small fishing boats to larger pontoons and speedboats, Rathbun Lake accommodates various types of watercraft, ensuring there's something for every boating enthusiast to enjoy.

The lake's size and calm waters make it ideal for popular water sports such as water skiing, tubing, and wakeboarding. These thrilling activities draw in families and thrill-seekers looking to add some excitement to their lake experience.

Rathbun Lake is a haven for anglers, as it offers fantastic fishing opportunities year-round. The lake is well-stocked with various fish species, including bass, crappie, catfish, and more, making it a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Surrounding Rathbun Lake are numerous nearby attractions and recreational areas, providing visitors with plenty of things to see and do. Nearby cities like Centerville and Moravia offer charming shops, restaurants, and cultural experiences to complement the lake adventure.

Camping enthusiasts will appreciate the availability of campgrounds around Rathbun Lake, where they can set up tents or park their RVs and immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance of the outdoors after a day of boating and fishing. Rathbun Lake's diverse offerings make it an inviting destination for those seeking an unforgettable lakeside experience in Iowa.

Boating, camping and fishing at Rathbun Lake

Beauty, sunshine and open water make Rathbun Lake a great destination for boating. Several boat launch ramps are open to the public. There are half a dozen campgrounds at or nearby the lake, as well as a marina, stores, lodging, bait and tackle, restaurants and rental boats. With plenty of access for shoreline fishing, this reservoir is a favorite of anglers who enjoy fishing from the bank. And, there's over 150 miles of shoreline accessible to boaters and anglers fishing from boats. This is an 11,000-acre lake in south-central Iowa with a list of fish species that includes bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, sunfish and hybrid stripers.

Rathbun Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Camping

Bridgeview Campground - 641 724-3062

Honey Creek State Park Campground - 641 724-3739

Prairie Ridge Park Campground - 641 724-3103

Dam Site Depot Campground - 641 799-8383

Buck Creek Campground - 641 724-3206

Island View Campground - 641 647-2079

Doggs RV Park - 641 724-3044

Rathbun Lake Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Rathbun Lake include largemouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, warmouth, white bass and hybrid striped bass.

Largemouth bass Channel catfish Flathead catfish Black crappie Walleye Bluegill Warmouth Sunfish White Bass Hybrid Striped Bass