Buck Creek (Rathbun Lake)
4.4750 reviews20112 HWY J5T, CENTERVILLE, IA 52544-8308, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$22 - $25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
42 campsites
Season
Open from May 8 to S...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV FriendlyElectricShowers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$22 - $25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
42 campsites
Season
Open from May 8 to S...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV FriendlyElectricShowers
Get DirectionsBuck Creek (Rathbun Lake)
$22.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Nightly rates for standard electric sites range between $22 and $25 during peak season. Additional fees for reservations may apply, including $10...
Show more
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
Get Notified When Available
We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.
Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes
167,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider641-724-3206 (May-Sept), 641-647-2464 (Oct-April)
What Campers Say
4.47
Recommended
Based on 50 reviews
50 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsquietcleanshowers
Some mention
reservation
"Buck Creek Campground receives predominantly positive reviews, emphasizing cleanliness, quietness, and its proximity to Rathbun Lake for fishing and boating. Negative reviews occasionally highlight maintenance issues, such as dirty shower stalls and inadequate enforcement of campground rules."
Fees & Passes at Buck Creek (Rathbun Lake)
$22 - $25/night
Campsite fees
Stay Limit: Visitors can stay a maximum of 14 nights per visit.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled before the scheduled arrival date. Cancellation incurs a $10 fee, and l...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Buck Creek Campground website.
Best Time to Camp at Buck Creek (Rathbun Lake)
Mother Nature has blessed Rathbun Lake with consistent breezes that transform its expansive waters into one of Iowa's premier sailing destinations. These prevailing winds create ideal conditions for both seasoned sailors and windsurfing enthusiasts, while also providing natural cooling during warm summer afternoons. The lake's reliable wind patterns have earned it a reputation among the Midwest sailing community as a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure on the water.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 8 to September 29 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from May 8 to September 29 for peak-season reservations.
About Buck Creek (Rathbun Lake)
Nestled along the pristine shoreline of Rathbun Lake, Buck Creek Campground beckons families and outdoor enthusiasts to discover Iowa's hidden waterfront gem. This welcoming retreat features 42 thoughtfully arranged campsites, each equipped with electric hookups to ensure comfort meets adventure. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn, watching children splash in the swimming area, or casting a line as the sun sets, Buck Creek delivers the perfect blend of recreation and relaxation. Modern amenities including hot showers, flush toilets, and a convenient dump station complement the natural beauty, while the playground keeps young adventurers entertained between lake activities.
Buck Creek Campground accommodates tent campers and RV users with 42 electric hookup sites. Users noted ample parking and the ability to pitch tents near the parking area. Group camping, cabin lodging, and glamping options are not mentioned.
Historical SignificanceJust a short drive from Buck Creek lies the fascinating Rathbun Fish Hatchery, where visitors can embark on self-guided tours through a living laboratory of aquatic conservation. Watch in wonder as skilled technicians nurture hundreds of thousands of catfish and walleye from tiny fry to thriving fingerlings, all destined to enhance Iowa's fishing heritage. This behind-the-scenes glimpse into fishery management offers families an educational adventure that perfectly complements a camping trip.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature has blessed Rathbun Lake with consistent breezes that transform its expansive waters into one of Iowa's premier sailing destinations. These prevailing winds create ideal conditions for both seasoned sailors and windsurfing enthusiasts, while also providing natural cooling during warm summer afternoons. The lake's reliable wind patterns have earned it a reputation among the Midwest sailing community as a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure on the water.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, Buck Creek's position within Iowa's heartland places it at a comfortable altitude where prairie meets water, creating an accessible outdoor escape for adventurers of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryBuck Creek Campground unfolds across sweeping grassy meadows punctuated by mature shade trees, creating a park-like setting where tent and RV campers alike can claim their perfect spot. This open landscape serves as nature's amphitheater, where majestic bald eagles soar overhead and white-tailed deer emerge at dusk to graze. Morning brings the distinctive honking of Canada geese, while sharp-eyed visitors might spot wild turkeys strutting through the campground's edges, reminding all that this cultivated comfort exists harmoniously within a thriving ecosystem.
Geological RegionThe campground rests within the enchanting Chariton River Valley of southeast Iowa, where gentle hills roll like frozen waves across the landscape. This ancient terrain, sculpted by millennia of wind and water, creates a topography that's both visually stunning and wonderfully accessible, offering panoramic views without challenging climbs. The valley's rich geological heritage has blessed the region with fertile soils and abundant water resources, making it a natural haven for both wildlife and weekend wanderers.
Advertisement
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is not explicitly detailed in authoritative content or user reviews.
Sites SizeSites accommodate RVs and tent campers while providing good space for parking and additional setups. For example, Craig S noted spacious parking accommodating an SUV towing a boat.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site but is generally good according to user reviews. Katherine Z stated, "Our site was such that you could not see other campers, but close enough if you wanted to be social."
Total Campsites42 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite F04 is described as accommodating for tent campers and offers convenient water access. Other highly-rated sites include A16, A17, and F06.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
Visitors can stay a maximum of 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests per site is not explicitly stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are organized into loops, such as A, B, and F, with a mix of RV-friendly pull-through sites and spaces for tent camping.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 8 to September 29 for peak-season reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are 100% reservable and must be paid for prior to setting up. Walk-up availability not mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled before the scheduled arrival date. Cancellation incurs a $10 fee, and late cancellations also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Buck Creek Campground offers a diverse range of recreational activities associated with its location near Rathbun Lake. These include fishing, boating, hiking, swimming, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The expansive lake is renowned for fishing and sailing due to its size and prevailing winds, which contribute to its nickname 'Iowa's Ocean.'
Hiking
Hiking trails are available near the campground, though specific details regarding trail lengths or difficulty are not provided. Hiking is listed as an activity but lacks further description from users or official sources.Fishing
Fishing is excellent at Rathbun Lake, which hosts crappie, channel catfish, walleye, and largemouth bass. User reviews, such as those from Douglas J. Gonner G and Marvin Ross, emphasize the enjoyment of fishing, with one reviewer calling the campground "relaxing and great for fishing."Swimming
A swimming beach is located within the park but not directly within the campground loops. Chelsea Richards shared that the beach was clean and enjoyable during her previous visit.Boating
Boating at Rathbun Lake is highly popular, with power boating and sailing being standout activities. The lake's prevailing winds make it one of the best sailing destinations in Iowa, as noted in the authoritative description. User Chelsea Richards recommends bringing a boat to explore the lake, describing it as "even more beautiful when you get to explore it on a boat."Wildlife viewing
The campground and surrounding area host diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, and wild turkey. Patricia A described Lake Rathbun as a place with "beautiful scenery, lovely views of the lake and wildlife," calling it her "Happy Place."Beach activities
The beach offers opportunities to sunbathe, swim, and relax. User Chelsea Richards noted, "The beach is just south of [the campground]...it was clean and very nice," providing a positive impression of beach-related activities.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in official content or user reviews.Water Sports
Water sports options include canoeing and kayaking. Craig S mentioned convenient water access and ample parking for boats within the campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but visitors are encouraged to purchase firewood locally to prevent pest migration.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsReported issues include cold showers, black wasps near bathrooms, and unkempt campsites. Wildlife interactions are common but not described as dangerous.
Weather at Buck Creek (Rathbun Lake)
21
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 13.2 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
For emergencies during May-September, contact 641-724-3206; during October-April, contact 641-647-2464.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 8 to September 29 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities include dumpsters near the dump station. Chelsea Richards noted, "They have poles to hang your trash from, and dumpsters by the dump station." Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Rathbun Lake, access includes marina facilities and a nearby swimming beach.
Common complaintsComplaints from reviews include dirty shower stalls, campsite cleanliness, and cold water in showers. Reservation processes occasionally confuse first-time campers, and some users report lax enforcement of rules such as leash policies.
HostHosts are described in multiple positive reviews as helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly.
Campground Map
20112 HWY J5T, CENTERVILLE, IA 52544-8308, USA
Driving directionsFrom Centerville, IA, travel 5 miles north on HWY 5 to HWY J-29, then 4 miles northwest to HWY J5T. Travel 2 miles north and follow signs to campground.
Road access is via HWY 5 and HWY J5T. Roads are paved and generally accessible year-round. Seasonal closures or road construction are not mentioned, and the terrain appears manageable for standard vehicles.Nearby places
Centerville, IA - 9 miles northwest
Nearby supplies
A marina and bait shop located nearby. Additional information on groceries, fuel, and camping supplies is not provided.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
50 reviews
Buck Creek (Rathbun Lake) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Buck Creek Campground receives predominantly positive reviews, emphasizing cleanliness, quietness, and its proximity to Rathbun Lake for fishing and boating. Negative reviews occasionally highlight maintenance issues, such as dirty shower stalls and inadequate enforcement of campground rules.
Review Summaries
Based on 50 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently mention the clean facilities, spacious sites, and convenient location near Rathbun Lake. Chelsea Richards noted, "The showers and bathrooms are clean...there are lots of trees and...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include issues with cleanliness, such as dog feces and trash at campsites (Patricia A), and cold showers (Brandon I). Others criticize the enforcement of rules, such as leash laws (Annie...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Chelsea Richards recommends bringing a boat to explore Rathbun Lake, as shore fishing opportunities can be limited. Other users suggest carrying extra toilet paper and firewood, as these amenities...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the peak season for camping, with most users enjoying activities such as fishing, swimming, and boating. Fall reviews highlight the quiet and serene atmosphere, although seasonal concerns...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Loved the place. Very quiet and serene while we were there." - Katherine Z, "Great camping experience!" - Chad W, "We try to camp at Grant River every year, since we discovered it 1998. The...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Notable campsite reviews include F06, described as "the best site in the whole campground" by Janet S. Craig S praised F04 for its suitability for tent camping, while Patricia A had a negative...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not directly addressed in user reviews.
Based on 50 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Annie M highlighted issues with off-leash dogs, which caused problems during her stay. Other users did not explicitly comment on pet policies.
Based on 50 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5
Last updated November 27, 2025
Advertisement