Recreation Opportunities

Rathbun Lake’s 8 parks, 2 marinas, 11,000 acres of water and 21,000 acres provide space for outdoor recreation activities. Camping, sightseeing, fishing, boating, picnicking and hunting are favorite activities.Bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, wild turkey, crappie, walleye, channel catfish and other wildlife can be found at Rathbun Lake. The lake’s fish and wildlife resources provide sightseers, fisherman, and hunters ample opportunities for their sports.

Eight parks have been developed for public recreation. Six are managed by the Corps of Engineers, and one state park is managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Recreation facilities include boat ramps, courtesy docks, campgrounds, picnic areas and playgrounds. Two marina concession areas provide a full line of marina services.