Prairie Ridge (Rathbun Lake)

PRAIRIE RIDGE (RATHBUN LAKE)

Part of Rathbun Lake

Overview

Prairie Ridge Park is located 6 miles, SW of the Jct of Iowa Highway 5 and J18 at Moravia. Awesome Sunsets- No Extra Charge! Rathbun's off-the-beaten path park offers unique opportunities for lover's of the outdoors. Nestled between Buck Creek and Honey Creek, the high ridge offers wonderful vistas of the lake while surrounded by Iowa's Natural and enhanced prairie life community, with woodland draws and timbered hillsides.

Facilities

Fifty-four family friendly, Large, campsites are available in two seperate camp areas. Two shower houses, drinking water and RV dump stations is available. A modern playground offers activities for our younger visitors.

Natural Features

Rathbun's most extensive trail, eight miles in length, takes hikers and bikers into Iowa's wild, and links to Iowa's Premier destination park at Honey Creek Resort.

Recreation

Prairie Ridge Boat Ramp is protected on three sides and has been long popular with both motorized craft and a launching area for wind surfers and catamarans. A courtesy dock with fish cleaning station aid families on and off the water.

Nearby Attractions

The park is within a few minutes of lake conveniences, bait, dining, and fuel. Rathbun's fish hatchery is open to the public on weekdays. Groups are encouraged to make appointments. 14 minutes west, on Hwy S70, one of Southern Iowa's best off-roading opportunities is at the 125 Acre Rathbun OHV Park. There's even a tot lot beginner's area. Search Rathbun OHV Park on-line for actual dates of operation and applicable rules.

Contact Info

This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (641) 647-2464.

Important Notices

  • 14 Day Policy on Rathbun Lake: Campers are only allowed to camp at the same camping loop a maximum of 14 nights within a 30 night period. After the 14th night, they will be required to move (physically move the camping unit) to a different camping loop, which can be in the same campground.
  • If late, you must contact this park within 24 hours after your original check-in time or you will be considered a 'no show' resulting in the cancelation of your reservation.
  • Please register for campsites during booth hours, 8 a.m.-10 a.m. and 3 p.m.-8 p.m.
  • For more information, visit the Rathbun Lake website http://www.nwk.usace.army.mil/Locations/District-Lakes/Rathbun-Lake/
  • Purchase firewood from a local source.
  • If you must bring your own firewood, don't leave any firewood behind at your campsite.
  • Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.

Available Activities

  • Camping - Camping
  • Biking - Biking
  • Canoeing - Canoeing
  • Boating - Boating
  • Day Use Area - Day Use Area
  • Fishing - Fishing
  • Hiking - Hiking
  • Kayaking - Kayaking
  • Picnicking - Picnicking
  • Sailing - Sailing
  • Swimming - Swimming
  • Water Access - Water Access
  • Wildlife Viewing - Wildlife Viewing

Directions

From Moravia, IA, travel 4 miles west on Highway J18, then south 2.5 miles on 200th Avenue (gravel). Follow signs into campground.

Contact Information

Phone: FOR CAMPGROUND INQUIRIES DURING MAY-SEPTEMBER PLEASE CALL 641-724-3103. DURING CLOSED SEASON OCTOBER-APRIL PLEASE CALL 641-647-2464

20112 HWY J5T
CENTERVILLE, IA 52544-8308

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Available Campsites

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