Overview
Rathbun Lake is a reservoir in IA. Primary inflow is Chariton River. It is managed by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers — Kansas City District.
The basin is characterized by about 11,000 acres of surface area. Shoreline and bottom character vary from protected coves and flats to deeper water, supporting a mix of open-water and nearshore habitats.
Rathbun Lake supports recreational boating and fishing. Public access is through area ramps, parks, and shoreline facilities where provided by the operator. Fishing and boating regulations are set by the relevant state wildlife agency.
Pool elevations are managed against conservation or full-pool elevation near 904 feet NGVD29; flood-control elevation near 926 feet. Monitoring current levels matters for ramp usability, shoreline access, and understanding storage relative to the published operating range.
Current Conditions
Rathbun Lake is currently 1.68 feet above full pool and has risen slightly over the past week.
- 7-day trendRisingLatest movement can differ from the seven-day trend.
- 7-day changeUp 0.05 ft
- 30-day changeUp 0.05 ft
- Drought conditionsNo Drought
About This Lake
Learn how this lake is managed, what affects its water level, and where Lake Insights gets its data.
Rathbun Lake is a 11,000-acre reservoir on the Chariton River managed by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers — Kansas City District.
