Rathbun Lake and Surrounding Areas Search and MLS Search

Rathbun Lake and Surrounding areas

Rathbun Lake is a reservoir located in southern Iowa, United States. It is situated mainly in Appanoose County, about 10 miles northwest of the town of Centerville. The lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, camping, and other outdoor activities. Rathbun Lake is actually part of 3 counties that not only includes Appanoose County, but also Monroe County and Wayne County. Rathbun Lake is often referred to as Iowa’s Ocean.

Rathbun Lake was created in 1969 by damming the Chariton River. It has a surface area of over 11,000 acres and a maximum depth of 65 feet. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including catfish, bass, crappie, and walleye, making it a popular spot for anglers.

There are several private and public campgrounds and recreational areas around the lake, including Honey Creek Resort State Park, which offers a variety of amenities such as a lodge, cabins, RV sites, and a golf course. The lake is also surrounded by public hunting land, making it a popular destination for hunting enthusiasts.

In addition to outdoor activities, Rathbun Lake is also home to several annual events, including the Iowa Governor's Cup Walleye Tournament and the Southern Iowa Junk Jaunt. Overall, Rathbun Lake is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors in Iowa.

Albia

Bloomfield

Corydon

Melrose

Moravia

Moulton

Mystic

Numa

Plano

Rathbun

Seymour

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Rathbun and Surrounding Area Search

7.47 Acres M/L Near Rathbun Lake with Endless Possibilities! No building or use restrictions on the property. No HOA. Don’t miss this excellent opportunity to own 7.47 acres M/L in the Moravia area, conveniently located just 0.9 miles from the boat ramp at Rathbun Lake and close to Honey Creek State Park and Resort. Whether you’re looking for the perfect place to build your dream home, add storage sheds, create boat storage, or simply invest in land near one of southern Iowa’s most popular recreational destinations, this property offers plenty of options. The property has Rathbun Regional Water available, adding to its potential for future development. Another great benefit is that this property is not subject to the Parkside Knolls covenants, giving you additional flexibility with your plans. Enjoy boating, fishing, camping, hiking, and all that Rathbun Lake and southern Iowa have to offer, while having your own piece of land just minutes from the water. A great investment opportunity with location, acreage, and possibilities!

Parkside Dr, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Real McCoy Realty LLC.

Rare commercial & recreational opportunity on the NE side of Rathbun Lake! Situated on approx. 7 acres, subject to survey, along a primary paved corridor leading to the Rathbun Lake marina, dam, campgrounds & recreation areas, this property offers exceptional visibility, access & versatility. Improvements include an attractive custom log-cabin-style commercial building w/ 6,000 SF main-level footprint + 3,390 upper-level space. Currently utilized for outdoor retail, bait, food service, ice & LP camper filling, the building offers possibilities for retail, restaurant, convenience/grocery, boat or powersports sales, hospitality or numerous other commercial uses. A separate cabin is currently operated as an established short-term rental, providing an additional income-producing component while maintaining privacy from the commercial area. Large parking areas accommodate boats, campers & trailers, excellent paved-road frontage, signage exposure, a loading area & additional county-road access. Rathbun Lake offers 11,000+ acres of water & is one of Southern Iowa's premier boating, fishing, camping, hunting & outdoor recreation destinations. Located near Moravia & approx. 85 miles from Des Moines, this is a unique opportunity in a market where private commercial acreage this close to lake attractions is rare. Additional development potential may exist, subject to zoning & approvals. Real estate & improvements only; business inventory not included.

21718 Hwy J5t, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Hawkeye Farm Mgmt & Real Estat.

4 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 6342085 MLS

Great opportunity in the Moravia community! Built in 2015, this well-maintained duplex offers approximately 1,150 sq. ft. per unit, with each side featuring 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and an attached single-car garage. One unit is currently tenant occupied, providing immediate rental income. Quality construction and finishes can be found throughout, including a boiler system with in-floor heat, central air, custom-built hickory cabinets, hardwood doors throughout, tile and carpeting, and durable Smart LP siding. Each unit also features its own covered front porch and side deck, and the property includes an exterior safe room. One unit was thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind, offering spacious hallways, 36- to 42-inch doorways, a roll-in shower, lowered countertops, and a kitchen designed to accommodate wheelchair accessibility. Located in the Moravia community and just a short drive to Lake Rathbun and Lake Sundown, this duplex offers a great combination of quality construction, accessibility, and investment potential. Live on one side while renting the other or add this unique property to your investment portfolio!

810 Michael St, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Bogle Realty LLC.

21139 Hwy J5t, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Legacy Real Estate Group.

3 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 6342078 MLS

Located in Moravia, Iowa, just a short drive to Lake Rathbun and Lake Sundown, this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath home is move-in ready with plenty of updates already completed. The home features a spacious eat-in kitchen with lots of cabinetry, along with new countertops, a newer sink, a new backsplash, and newer stainless steel appliances that stay with the home. The laundry area is conveniently tucked into the kitchen cabinetry. Throughout the home you'll find beautiful hardwood floors and several major improvements, including a newer HVAC system, newer windows, newer siding, updated electrical, and a new front deck. Previous updates also include the roof, gutters, and interior paint. Outside, you'll enjoy a single-car garage, a patio, a partially fenced backyard, plus a large additional storage shed/garage with room for up to two vehicles—perfect for extra vehicles, a workshop, hobbies, or additional storage. Located in the Moravia School District and close to two of southern Iowa's favorite recreational lakes, this home offers a great combination of charm, updates, storage, and location. Put 806 W North St on your list to see.

806 W North St, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Bogle Realty LLC.

Development Opportunity Almost Bordering Lake Rathbun! Located on North Side of Lake Rathbun Very Close to Prairie Ridge Park and Close to Honey Creek State Park! 109 Acres m/l Total with 98.7 Acres Tillable (Currently 95 Acres in Row Crop Production), 10.2 Acres Timber. Very Good Income Producing Farm with Many Development Opportunities! Could Possibly Make Building Sites Along West Road Frontage, Leaving 80+ Acres to Develop Along Nice Level Surface. Almost Bordering Lake Rathbun with Many Possibilities!

109 Acres 200th Ave, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Davis County Realtors.

Discover the perfect place to build your dream home or lake getaway on 0.34 acres in the Antler Acres subdivision at Rathbun Lake. Tucked away toward the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this exceptional property offers the privacy you've been looking for, with Corps of Engineers land bordering the backyard—meaning you'll never have backyard neighbors. Instead, enjoy peaceful views of mature timber stretching to the water's edge. With ample space to build your home, this land is ideal for building a home with a walk-out basement. Add an upper deck and lower patio to enjoy the natural beauty and seclusion that make Rathbun Lake so special. Conveniently located just minutes from the lake's largest boat ramp, Honey Creek State Park, scenic hiking and biking trails, and local favorites like The Tipsy Turtle and The Mexican Affair. Spend the day golfing at The Preserve on Rathbun Lake or enjoy dining at Harbor 72 at Honey Creek Resort. Whether you're planning a full-time residence, vacation retreat, or investment property, this is an outstanding opportunity to own one of the area's most desirable building sites.

Lot 57 & 1/2 58 Buck Lane, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Iowa Realty South Lakes.

Show anytime. Adjoining Lot 37 is also available for purchase.

Lot 38 Parkside Knolls, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Bogle Realty LLC.

Build your dream home at beautiful Rathbun Lake! This spacious lot in the desirable Parkside Knolls subdivision offers the perfect opportunity to create your ideal lake getaway or year round residence. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings while being just minutes from all the recreation Rathbun Lake has to offer, including boating, fishing, swimming, golfing, hiking, and more. Need additional space? The adjoining lot is also available for purchase, giving you the opportunity to expand your building site for added privacy and flexibility. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of lake country, come experience the Rathbun Lake lifestyle and start building your dream today!

Lot 37 Parkside Knolls, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Bogle Realty LLC.

3 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 6340701 MLS

Welcome to 12149 Overturf Drive, Moravia, IA, located in the desirable Lakeshore Heights subdivision near Rathbun Lake! Situated on 0.60 acres, this well-maintained split foyer home offers the perfect combination of space, privacy, and storage. The property backs to a peaceful hay field, providing beautiful country views and no backyard neighbors. The home features 1,044 square feet on the main level plus a fully finished 1,044-square-foot lower level, giving you over 2,000 square feet of finished living space. The functional layout offers comfortable living areas on both levels, making it ideal for entertaining, guests, or a growing family. Recent updates include a new furnace and a/c unit, complete with a smart thermostat. Lake lovers will appreciate the exceptional garage space, including a 16' x 22' detached garage and an impressive 34' x 40' metal post-frame building with plenty of room for boats, campers, vehicles, workshop space, or recreational equipment. Whether you're looking for a full-time residence or a weekend retreat near Rathbun Lake, this property offers the privacy, storage, and space you've been searching for in one of the area's most popular lake communities.

12149 Overturf Dr, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Iowa Realty South Lakes.

4 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 6339964 MLS

Welcome to 17587 Lakeshore Drive, Moravia IA—an exceptional ranch home offering quality construction, modern updates, and an unbeatable location backing directly to a protected Wildlife Refuge at Rathbun Lake. Built in 2012, this 4-bedroom, 2-bath home features 1,098 sq. ft. on the main level plus a fully finished 1,098 sq. ft. walk-out basement, providing over 2,100 sq. ft. of finished living space. The beautifully updated kitchen showcases custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, and newer appliances, while durable 3/4" COREtec flooring flows throughout the main level. Relax year-round in the 12' x 23' screened porch complete with a hot tub and enjoy peaceful views with no backyard neighbors. The walk-out lower level features a high-efficiency pellet stove for added comfort and energy savings. A spacious mudroom/pantry includes a wine fridge and abundant storage. Exterior upgrades an oversized garage with a 14-foot door capable of accommodating up to a 25-foot boat. The garage also offers large attic storage plus a lower-level storage area perfect for lawn equipment. An additional 0.2-acre lot provides extra outdoor space for recreation or future possibilities. Located just minutes from boat ramps, beaches, golf course, restaurants and Honey Creek Resort. Don't miss this opportunity to own a beautifully maintained home in one of southern Iowa's most sought-after lake communities. Located in Lakeshore Heights at Rathbun Lake.

17587 Lakeshore Dr, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Iowa Realty South Lakes.

DOUBLE LOT IN LAKESHORE HEIGHTS! Close to Honey Creek State Park, this desirable subdivision is a great place to build your dream lake home or permanent residence. A private septic system will be required, and electricity and water are at the road to tie into. The slope of the land may make a perfect landscape to build a ranch with walk-out basement. Add an upper level deck to enjoy sunrises and nature!

Lots 18 & 19 Blk 2 Lakeshore Heights, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Iowa Realty South Lakes.

Build your dream near the lake in Parkside Knolls! This .21-acre vacant lot offers an excellent opportunity to create your ideal getaway or full-time residence just minutes from the water. Whether you’re looking to build now or secure land for the future, this is a fantastic opportunity in a sought-after area. Enjoy a prime location close to Honey Creek State Park. With a nearby boat ramp, you’ll have quick and easy access for fishing, boating, and soaking up lake life all season long. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of lake country—start planning your build today!

LOT 51 Parkside Knolls, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Iowa Realty South Lakes.

Discover your perfect getaway with Lot 45 in Parkside Knolls, located in charming Moravia near Lake Rathbun! If you’ve been dreaming of escaping the hustle and bustle of city life, this is your opportunity to own a slice of peaceful southern Iowa. Ideally situated just minutes from Honey Creek State Park and the boat ramp, you’ll have quick and easy access to the lake—making it simple to spend your days boating, fishing, or soaking up the sun. Whether you’re planning to build a weekend retreat or your forever home, this lot offers the perfect setting. Enjoy the quiet surroundings of this desirable subdivision, where relaxation and nature take center stage. Embrace lake life, fresh air, and a slower pace—your retreat awaits at Parkside Knolls at Lot 45!

Lot 45 Parkside Knolls, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Real McCoy Realty LLC.

Discover your perfect getaway with Lot 42 in Parkside Knolls, located in charming Moravia near Lake Rathbun! If you’ve been dreaming of escaping the hustle and bustle of city life, this is your opportunity to own a slice of peaceful southern Iowa. Ideally situated just minutes from Honey Creek State Park and the boat ramp, you’ll have quick and easy access to the lake—making it simple to spend your days boating, fishing, or soaking up the sun. Whether you’re planning to build a weekend retreat or your forever home, this lot offers the perfect setting. Enjoy the quiet surroundings of this desirable subdivision, where relaxation and nature take center stage. Embrace lake life, fresh air, and a slower pace—your retreat awaits at Parkside Knolls!

Lot 42 Parkside Knolls, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Real McCoy Realty LLC.

Start planning your Lake Rathbun getaway with Lot 33 in Parkside Knolls! Located just minutes from Honey Creek State Park, this lot offers an excellent opportunity to build a cabin, weekend retreat, or full-time home close to everything the lake area has to offer. Enjoy convenient access to boating, fishing, golf, and outdoor recreation while owning an affordable piece of the Rathbun lifestyle. Whether you're ready to build now or looking to secure land for the future, this property gives you flexibility to make it your own. If you've been thinking about a place near Rathbun without the premium price of waterfront property, this is your chance to get started. Lot 34 is also available for purchase

Lot 33 Parkside Knolls, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Bogle Realty LLC.

Build your getaway in the heart of Lake Rathbun’s most convenient locations! Lot 34 in Parkside Knolls offers the perfect opportunity to create your own weekend retreat or future full-time home just minutes from the lake. Located near Honey Creek State Park, you’ll enjoy quick access to boat ramps, fishing, golf, and all the recreation Rathbun has to offer. This lot is ideal for those looking to invest in a relaxed, lake-focused lifestyle—whether you're ready to build now or planning for the future. Parkside Knolls is a well-maintained subdivision with a peaceful setting, making it a great choice for a cabin, seasonal escape, or retirement home base. Enjoy the benefits of lake living without the waterfront price tag. If you've been thinking about owning a place near Rathbun, this is an affordable way to make it happen. Lot 33 is also available for purchase.

Lot 34 Parkside Knolls, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Bogle Realty LLC.

4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 6337073 MLS

This isn’t just a home—it’s a lifestyle you’ll never want to leave. Welcome to your private escape on the 400-acre Lake Sundown, where every day begins with peaceful water views and ends with unforgettable sunsets. With 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, this custom-built home was designed to bring the beauty of the outdoors in, offering stunning lake views from nearly every room. Imagine slow mornings on the expansive deck with coffee in hand, the water calm and quiet. Afternoons spent boating, fishing, or simply soaking up the sun—with your own boat slip making it effortless. Evenings gather friends and family around the firepit, laughter carrying through the air as the stars reflect off the lake. Inside, over 2,600 finished square feet provides warmth and comfort, with a walk-out basement featuring a wet bar—perfect for hosting or unwinding after a day on the water. The home has been meticulously maintained, with beautiful landscaping and thoughtful details like a stamped concrete walkway that welcomes you to the backyard retreat. With both an attached finished garage and a detached workshop, there’s space for all your lake toys, hobbies, and more. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or your forever home, this is where memories are made, traditions are built, and life slows down just enough to truly enjoy it.

29224 Westview Dr, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Bogle Realty LLC.

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 6336219 MLS

NEW ROOF July 2026! If weekends at Rathbun Lake are your happy place, this property deserves a spot at the top of your list. Located in Lakeshore Heights just minutes from Honey Creek State Park and the boat ramp, this 3 BR, 2 BA home offers the perfect setup for relaxing, entertaining, and making lasting lake memories. Inside, the open-concept layout creates a comfortable gathering space after a day on the water. One of the standout features is the oversized 16.5 x 24 primary bedroom, attached primary bath with soaking tub, French doors, and private covered patio. Additional spaces throughout the home make it easy to host family and friends. Enjoy your coffee in the bright sunroom, or gather around the stone fire pit for evenings under the stars. The basement offers additional sleeping space, perfect for accommodating extra guests during busy summer weekends. Outside, you'll appreciate the wide concrete driveway, RV electrical hookup and water, and a finished 20 x 24 garage that works great as additional hangout space, or storage for lake gear. A storage shed provides even more room for outdoor equipment. And here’s the feature that truly sets this property apart: two additional flat lots are included, giving you the rare opportunity to build a shop, add another garage for all your lake toys. Schedule your showing and start imagining your summers at Rathbun Lake!

17788 Shanghi Rd, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Iowa Realty South Lakes.

Great opportunity to own a charming small-town grocery store right on the square in Moravia! This well-located neighborhood market sits in the heart of town, offering excellent visibility and easy access for local residents and visitors alike. The store features retail shelving, cooler space, and ample room for groceries, convenience items, and specialty goods. Positioned on the town square, this property benefits from steady foot traffic and strong community presence. Ideal for an owner-operator or investor looking to continue the grocery tradition, expand into a convenience store, café, or specialty market. A rare chance to own a cornerstone business location in a welcoming small-town community. Endless potential to serve the community while building a thriving local business! ????

107 E Chariton St, Moravia

Listing courtesy of Bogle Realty LLC.

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