Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

The Rathbun Marina provides boat access to Rathbun Lake, an 11,000-acre reservoir on the Chariton River in the rolling hills of southern Iowa near Moravia. This is a developed access point with a concrete boat ramp, dock facilities, and an on-site marina. The area offers full amenities including flush and pit toilets, showers, drinking water, and a dump station, making it convenient for extended trips or day use.

Rathbun Lake is an excellent destination for kayakers, canoeists, and larger boats, with the scenic Chariton River Valley setting providing opportunities to observe local wildlife including bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, and wild turkey. The surrounding recreation area features over 700 campsites across the lake, allowing paddlers to plan multi-day excursions. A nearby marina and bait shop add to the convenience of this well-developed facility for both fishing and recreational boating.

This recreation area is part of Rathbun Lake