Prairie Ridge
Open for the 2026 season, operating mid-May through mid-September. Reservations available via Recreation.gov. Registration booth hours are 8-10 a.m. and 3-8 p.m. 14-night limit per 30-day period within the same loop.
Heat Advisory issued August 31 at 11:43AM CDT until September 2 at 7:00PM CDT by NWS Des Moines IA
* WHAT...Heat index values up to 100-103 degrees. * WHERE...Portions of central and south central Iowa, including the Des Moines metro. * WHEN...Until 7 PM CDT Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...While heat index values may not reach 105 degrees each day, the combination of the longevity of the heat and little or limited relief during the overnight periods with warm lows have prompted the multi-day Heat Advisory.
About
Prairie Ridge Park occupies a scenic ridge overlooking Rathbun Lake in southern Iowa's rolling prairie landscape. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the campground features 54 large electric sites spread across two camping areas (Camp A and Camp B), with Camp B designated as pet-friendly. Sites are equipped with electric hookups, fire rings, grills, lantern hangers, and picnic tables seating up to eight people. Gravel pads accommodate RVs up to 90 feet. The campground includes two modern shower houses with hot water, drinking water spigots, RV dump stations, and a playground. The boat ramp is protected on three sides and features a courtesy dock with fish cleaning station, making it popular with motorized craft, windsurfers, and catamarans. Rathbun's most extensive trail system begins here, with 8 miles of hiking and biking through native and enhanced prairie, woodland draws, and timbered hillsides linking to Honey Creek Resort. The location provides access to fishing, swimming, wildlife viewing, and convenient proximity to bait shops, dining, and the Rathbun Fish Hatchery.
Directions
From Moravia, IA, travel 4 miles west on Highway J18, then south 2.5 miles on 200th Avenue (gravel). Follow signs into campground.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $25 - $70 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 90ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 90ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | Yes |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (641) 724-3103 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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