Lake Rathbun Camping: A Guide for a Memorable Outdoor Experience

Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of southern Iowa, Lake Rathbun offers an idyllic setting for a camping getaway. This 14,000-acre reservoir boasts 110 miles of stunning shoreline, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature while enjoying a myriad of outdoor recreational activities.

With a wealth of camping options available, Lake Rathbun caters to various preferences and needs. From rustic campsites nestled among towering trees to fully equipped RV hookup sites, there is something for every camper at this picturesque destination.

Whether you seek a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, Lake Rathbun's camping offerings are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

Lake Rathbun Camping

Immerse yourself in the splendor of Lake Rathbun, a camping haven with something for every outdoor enthusiast.

110 miles of scenic shoreline
Variety of campsites: rustic to RV hookups
Abundant recreational activities
Serene and picturesque setting
Affordable camping options
Conveniently located in southern Iowa
Unforgettable outdoor experiences

Plan your escape to Lake Rathbun today and let the tranquility of nature envelop you.

110 miles of scenic shoreline

Lake Rathbun's 110 miles of scenic shoreline provide a breathtaking backdrop for your camping experience. The lake's crystal-clear waters and rolling hills create a picturesque setting that will captivate your senses.

Whether you prefer to spend your days swimming, boating, or fishing, Lake Rathbun has something to offer everyone. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill. There are also several boat ramps and marinas located around the lake, making it easy to get out on the water.

If you're looking for a more relaxing experience, you can simply sit back and enjoy the views from your campsite. Many of the campsites at Lake Rathbun offer stunning lakefront views, so you can start and end your day with the tranquil beauty of the water.

No matter how you choose to spend your time at Lake Rathbun, the 110 miles of scenic shoreline are sure to provide a memorable experience.

With its abundance of recreational opportunities and stunning natural beauty, Lake Rathbun is the perfect destination for a camping getaway.

Variety of campsites: rustic to RV hookups

Lake Rathbun offers a wide range of campsites to accommodate every type of camper, from those seeking a rustic experience to those who prefer the convenience of RV hookups.

Rustic campsites
For those who enjoy a more primitive camping experience, Lake Rathbun offers rustic campsites with no hookups. These campsites are typically located in more secluded areas of the park and offer a greater sense of privacy. They are also typically more affordable than campsites with hookups.
Electric hookup campsites
For those who want to enjoy the convenience of electricity, Lake Rathbun offers electric hookup campsites. These campsites provide 30 or 50 amp electrical service, so you can power your RV or other electrical devices. Electric hookup campsites are typically more expensive than rustic campsites, but they offer a greater level of comfort and convenience.
Water and electric hookup campsites
Lake Rathbun also offers water and electric hookup campsites. These campsites provide both 30 or 50 amp electrical service and water hookups. This is a great option for those who want the convenience of both electricity and water at their campsite.
Full hookup campsites
For those who want the ultimate in convenience, Lake Rathbun offers full hookup campsites. These campsites provide 30 or 50 amp electrical service, water hookups, and sewer hookups. This allows you to enjoy all the comforts of home while camping, including the ability to use your RV's bathroom and kitchen.

No matter what type of camping experience you are looking for, Lake Rathbun has a campsite that is perfect for you.

AbundantCRD activities

In addition to its beautiful scenery and variety of campsites, Lake Rathbun also offers an abundance of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an action- packed adventure, you're sure to find something to keep you busy at Lake Rathbun.

Some of the most popular activities at Lake Rathbun include:

Boating: With its 110 miles of shoreline, Lake Rathbun is a great place to boat. Whether you're looking to cruise around the lake, go fishing, or water ski, you're sure to have a great time on the water.
Fishing: Lake Rathbun is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill. The lake is also stocked with rainbow and browntrout, making it a great place to fish year-round.
Swimming: Lake Rathbun has several designated swimming beaches, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim on a hot summer day.
Hiking: There are several hiking trails located around Lake Rathbun, ranging from easy to difficult. Whether you're looking for a short walk or a challenging hike, you're sure to find a trail that's perfect for you.
Camping: Of course, no visit to Lake Rathbun would be complete without camping. The park offers a variety of campsites to choose from, so you can find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of the lake.

These are just a few of the many activities that you can enjoy at Lake Rathbun. With its beautiful scenery, variety of campsites, and abundance of activities, Lake Rathbun is the perfect place to spend a weekend or a week away.

Serene and picturesque setting

Lake Rathbun is located in southern Iowa, in the heart of the Midwest. The lake is surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests, creating a serene and picturesque setting. The lake's crystal-clear waters reflect the blue sky and the surrounding greenery, making it a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and eagles. You can often see these animals grazing in the meadows or soaring overhead. The park also has a number of hiking trails that wind through the forests and along the shoreline, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the lake from a different perspective.

Whether you're looking for a place to camp, fish, boat, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery, Lake Rathbun is the perfect destination. The park's serene and picturesque setting will help you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature.

Here are a few of the things that make Lake Rathbun such a special place to camp:

The lake's crystal-clear waters and rolling hills create a beautiful and peaceful setting.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and eagles.
The park has a number of hiking trails that wind through the forests and along the shoreline, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the lake from a different perspective.
The park is conveniently located in southern Iowa, making it easy to get to from anywhere in the Midwest.

Affordable camping options

One of the best things about Lake Rathbun is that it offers affordable camping options for every budget. Whether you're looking for a rustic campsite or a full hookup RV site, you're sure to find something that fits your needs.

Here is a breakdown of the camping fees at Lake Rathbun:

Rustic campsites: $10 per night
Electric hookup campsites: $15 per night
Water and electric hookup campsites: $20 per night
Full hookup campsites: $25 per night

In addition to the nightly camping fee, there is also a $5 vehicle entrance fee. This fee is good for one week, so you can come and go as you please during your stay.

Here are a few tips for saving money on your camping trip to Lake Rathbun:

Camp during the off-season. The camping rates are lower from October 1st to April 30th.
Stay for a longer period of time. The camping rates are discounted for stays of 3 nights or more.
Bring your own firewood. Firewood is available for purchase at the park, but it is cheaper to bring your own.
Cook your own meals. Eating out can be expensive, so save money by cooking your own meals at your campsite.

Conveniently located in southern Iowa

Lake Rathbun is conveniently located in southern Iowa, making it easy to get to from anywhere in the Midwest. The park is just a short drive from Des Moines, Omaha, and Kansas City.

Here are the driving distances to Lake Rathbun from some major cities in the Midwest:

Des Moines, IA: 60 miles
Omaha, NE: 90 miles
Kansas City, MO: 150 miles
Minneapolis, MN: 250 miles
Chicago, IL: 300 miles

The park is also easily accessible by public transportation. The Amtrak train station in Creston, Iowa is just 10 miles from the park. There is also a bus stop in Rathbun, Iowa, which is located just outside the park entrance.

Lake Rathbun's convenient location makes it the perfect place for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. The park is close to a variety of attractions, including museums, historical sites, and shopping malls. There are also several restaurants and grocery stores located near the park.

Unforgettable outdoor experiences

Lake Rathbun offers a variety of unforgettable outdoor experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, you're sure to find something to keep you entertained at Lake Rathbun.

Camping: Lake Rathbun offers a variety of campsites to choose from, so you can find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of the lake. Whether you're looking for a rustic campsite or a full hookup RV site, you're sure to find something that fits your needs.
Boating: With its 110 miles of shoreline, Lake Rathbun is a great place to boat. Whether you're looking to cruise around the lake, go fishing, or water ski, you're sure to have a great time on the water.
Fishing: Lake Rathbun is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill. The lake is also stocked with rainbow and brown trout, making it a great place to fish year-round.
Swimming: Lake Rathbun has several designated swimming beaches, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim on a hot summer day.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about camping at Lake Rathbun:

Question 1: What are the camping fees?
Answer 1: The camping fees at Lake Rathbun vary depending on the type of campsite you choose. Rustic campsites are $10 per night, electric hookup campsites are $15 per night, water and electric hookup campsites are $20 per night, and full hookup campsites are $25 per night. In addition to the nightly camping fee, there is also a $5 vehicle entrance fee.

Question 2: What types of campsites are available?
Answer 2: Lake Rathbun offers a variety of campsites to choose from, including rustic campsites, electric hookup campsites, water and electric hookup campsites, and full hookup campsites. Rustic campsites are located in more secluded areas of the park and do not have any hookups. Electric hookup campsites have 30 or 50 amp electrical service. Water and electric hookup campsites have 30 or 50 amp electrical service and water hookups. Full hookup campsites have 30 or 50 amp electrical service, water hookups, and sewer hookups.

Question 3: Can I make reservations for a campsite?
Answer 3: Yes, you can make reservations for a campsite at Lake Rathbun online or by phone. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance. However, walk-in campsites are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Question 4: What amenities are available at the campground?
Answer 4: The campground at Lake Rathbun offers a variety of amenities, including restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, a dump station, and a playground. There is also a camp store where you can purchase firewood, ice, and other camping supplies.

Question 5: What activities are available at Lake Rathbun?
Answer 5: Lake Rathbun offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages, including camping, boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and biking. There are also several playgrounds and picnic areas located throughout the park.

Question 6: What are the park hours?
Answer 6: The park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, the campground office is only open from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.

Question 7: Are pets allowed in the campground?
Answer 7: Yes, pets are allowed in the campground, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.

We hope this FAQ has answered some of your questions about camping at Lake Rathbun. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact the park office at (641) 647-2430.

Now that you know all about camping at Lake Rathbun, it's time to start planning your trip! Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:

Tips

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your camping experience at Lake Rathbun:

1. Make reservations early. Lake Rathbun is a popular camping destination, so it's important to make reservations early, especially if you're planning to camp during the peak season (May-September). You can make reservations online or by phone up to 6 months in advance.

2. Bring plenty of supplies. Lake Rathbun is a remote park, so it's important to bring plenty of supplies with you, including food, water, firewood, and insect repellent. There is a camp store located in the campground, but it is only open during limited hours.

3. Be prepared for the weather. The weather in Iowa can be unpredictable, so it's important to be prepared for all types of weather conditions. Bring a raincoat, hat, and sunscreen, and be sure to check the weather forecast before you go.

4. Respect the park rules. Lake Rathbun is a state park, so it's important to follow the park rules and regulations. These rules are in place to protect the park's natural resources and to ensure that all visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your camping trip to Lake Rathbun is a memorable one.

Lake Rathbun is a beautiful and diverse park that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, you're sure to find it at Lake Rathbun.

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