About PRAIRIE RIDGE (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.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.
How to Get There
From Moravia, IA, travel 4 miles west on Highway J18, then south 2.5 miles on 200th Avenue (gravel). Follow signs into campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
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High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
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Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
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Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to PRAIRIE RIDGE (RATHBUN LAKE)
Heading to PRAIRIE RIDGE (RATHBUN LAKE)? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for PRAIRIE RIDGE (RATHBUN LAKE)?
No central reservation system listed for PRAIRIE RIDGE (RATHBUN LAKE). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233593) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to PRAIRIE RIDGE (RATHBUN LAKE)?
From Moravia, IA, travel 4 miles west on Highway J18, then south 2.5 miles on 200th Avenue (gravel). Follow signs into campground.
How do I contact PRAIRIE RIDGE (RATHBUN LAKE)?
You can reach the park at phone: FOR CAMPGROUND INQUIRIES DURING MAY-SEPTEMBER PLEASE CALL 641-724-3103. DURING CLOSED SEASON OCTOBER-APRIL PLEASE CALL 641-647-2464.
References & Official Resources
