PRAIRIE RIDGE (RATHBUN LAKE)
federal · CENTERVILLE, IA
- fuel station10.0 mi

Data Source: Recreation.gov
About
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. 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. 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. Contact Info This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (641) 647-2464. 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.
Around this stay
Nearest surrounding services and recreation within ~25 mi — not on-site amenities.
- 10.0 mi
fuel station
Fuel station
- 9.7 mi
grocery
Hy-Vee
- 16 mi
potable water
Potable water
- 3.4 mi
attraction
Moravia Wabash Depot Museum
- 1.6 mi
recreation site
Boat launch
No dump station found within ~25 mi. Plan dump access before you arrive.
Contact & access
- 20112 HWY J5T · CENTERVILLE, IA 52544-8308
- FOR CAMPGROUND INQUIRIES DURING MAY-SEPTEMBER PLEASE CALL 641-724-3103. DURING CLOSED SEASON OCTOBER-APRIL PLEASE CALL 641-647-2464
Reservations & demand
August weekends are typically reserved about 37 days ahead.
Based on 97 Recreation.gov reservations (Oct 2023–Sep 2024). Historical demand — not live availability.
Source and verification
Last verified: 10/11/2026
See the Sources tab for provenance detail.