—
Total Campsites
Campground
—
Reservable Sites
Check by phone
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
Organization
Overview
About ISLAND VIEW (RATHBUN LAKE)
Overview Island View Park is located on beautiful Rathbun Lake, just nine miles northwest of Centerville, Iowa and 8 miles southwest of Moravia. Recreation The 11,000-acre lake provides a variety of fishing opportunities for any angler: Crappie, channel catfish, walleye and largemouth bass are most common. The prevailing winds on Rathbun Lake, also known as Iowa's Ocean, make it one of the best sailing lakes in Iowa. Facilities The 11,000-acre lake provides a variety of fishing opportunities for any angler: Crappie, channel catfish, walleye and largemouth bass are most common. The prevailing winds on Rathbun Lake, also known as Iowa's Ocean, make it one of the best sailing lakes in Iowa. Natural Features Rathbun Lake is situated in the gently rolling hills of the Chariton River Valley in southeast Iowa. The campground consists of open grassy areas dotted with trees. Bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, wild turkey and other wildlife can be found at Rathbun Lake. Nearby Attractions The Rathbun Fish Hatchery is nearby, offering self-guided tours Monday through Friday year-round. Hundreds of thousands of catfish and walleye are produced here each year. Southern Iowa's only Off Highway Vehicle Park is just 20 minutes from the campground. It is located on the south bank of the South Fork Chariton River and encompasses nearly 125 acres in an abandoned rock quarry. contact_info This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (641) 647-2464.
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes ISLAND VIEW (RATHBUN LAKE) special
Island View Park sits on the shores of Rathbun Lake, a sprawling 11,000-acre reservoir in south-central Iowa that locals have nicknamed "Iowa''s Ocean" for its size and the steady winds that make it one of the state''s premier sailing destinations. The campground puts you right on the water with sites offering views across the broad expanse of lake. Fishing is a major draw — crappie, channel catfish, walleye, and largemouth bass keep anglers busy across all seasons. A boat ramp provides direct lake access, and there is ample room for beachside lounging. The surrounding area is rolling Iowa farmland that turns lush green in summer and golden in fall, giving the landscape a quiet beauty often overlooked by travelers heading to more famous destinations. The campground is well-maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers with modern amenities. Spring migration brings excellent birding along the lake''s coves and inlets. Weekend visitors from Des Moines, Ottumwa, and Centerville fill the campground in summer, so reservations are recommended for July and August.
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
FOR CAMPGROUND INQUIRIES DURING MAY-SEPTEMBER PLEASE CALL 641-647-2079. DURING CLOSED SEASON OCTOBER-APRIL PLEASE CALL 641-647-2464
Getting There
From Centerville, IA, travel 2.5 miles north on HWY 5, then go 4 miles northwest on J-29, then 0.1 mile north on J5T to the park entrance.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to ISLAND VIEW (RATHBUN LAKE).
How do reservations work for ISLAND VIEW (RATHBUN LAKE)?
Reservation availability for ISLAND VIEW (RATHBUN LAKE) can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at ISLAND VIEW (RATHBUN LAKE)?
Campsite type details are limited right now. Check back as this listing is enriched.
Where is ISLAND VIEW (RATHBUN LAKE) located?
ISLAND VIEW (RATHBUN LAKE) is in Iowa near Mystic Iowa. Coordinates: 40.8325, -92.9180.
Keep Exploring