Water
gage height, ft levels
at
Rathbun Lake Near Rathbun
are currently
903
ft,
about
100% of normal.
The average for this time of year is approximately
905.95ft.
Maximum recorded
Gage height, ft
since record keeping began in
2007
was
2010-07-25
when levels reached
926.74 ft.
Lowest recorded
Gage height, ft
was
2010-12-17
when levels receded to
902.22 ft.
View historical levels.
Rathbun Lake is a reservoir located in southern Iowa near the town of Rathbun. The lake was created in the 1960s as part of a flood control project by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The hydrology of the lake is primarily fed by the Chariton River and other small streams, with the lake serving as a major source of water for the area. The lake is also surrounded by agricultural land, with corn and soybeans being the primary crops grown. Recreational activities are popular at the lake, including fishing, boating, and camping. The lake is known for its walleye and crappie fishing, with several boat ramps and fishing piers available for use. Snowpack and surface flow providers to the lake vary depending on the season and weather conditions.