Island View Campground

For those of us living in Iowa, the expansive beauty of Rathbun Lake is a true gem, offering countless opportunities to escape the everyday and immerse ourselves in nature. Known affectionately as "Iowa's Ocean," this vast reservoir is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts, and choosing the right spot to set up camp can truly enhance the experience. Among the many excellent camping destinations around Rathbun Lake, Island View Campground consistently stands out as a top choice. This article is crafted specifically for local Iowans, providing a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Island View Campground, highlighting what makes it such a suitable and appealing option for your next adventure.

Island View Campground, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a meticulously maintained park designed to offer a comfortable and scenic retreat. It's renowned for its exceptionally spacious sites, many of which provide breathtaking views of Rathbun Lake, creating an idyllic backdrop for relaxation and recreation. While it offers electric-only hookups at most sites, requiring a bit of pre-planning for water, the overall experience of peace, natural beauty, and well-kept facilities consistently draws campers back. Whether you're an avid angler, a boater, or simply looking for a quiet place to unwind amidst Iowa's picturesque landscapes, Island View Campground provides an inviting environment right here in our home state. We’ll delve into its location, the services and features it boasts, and why it’s considered one of the best camping spots in Iowa by many who have experienced its charm.

Island View Campground is strategically located at 19357 Islandview Pl, Mystic, IA 52574, USA. This address places it directly on the shores of the magnificent Rathbun Lake, approximately nine miles northwest of Centerville, Iowa, and eight miles southwest of Moravia. Its position allows for prime access to the lake's abundant recreational opportunities.

For Iowans, the accessibility of Island View Campground is a significant convenience. While it’s noted as being "a couple of miles from highway entrance," the drive to the campground is described as "beautiful," setting a scenic tone for your arrival. The roads leading to the park are well-maintained, easily accommodating everything from passenger vehicles to large RVs and trailers. This ease of access means less time navigating and more time enjoying your destination. Being part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' managed recreation areas around Rathbun Lake, Island View benefits from clear signage and a well-established infrastructure that supports visitor needs. Its tranquil, lakeside setting feels wonderfully secluded, yet it's still within a reasonable driving distance from many Iowa communities, making it an ideal choice for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation without the hassle of extensive travel. This balance of remote beauty and convenient access truly enhances its appeal for local residents.

Services Offered:

• Electric Hookups: The campground offers numerous electric-only sites (30-amp and 50-amp options), catering primarily to RV and trailer campers.
• Drinking Water Spigots: While sites are electric-only for water, "a few spigots located throughout park" for campers to fill their water tanks.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available on-site for RVs and trailers to empty their waste tanks.
• Flush and Pit Toilets: Both modern flush toilets and more rustic pit toilets are provided, along with shower facilities, ensuring essential comforts for campers.
• Boat Ramp and Dock: Direct access to Rathbun Lake is available via a boat ramp and dock, facilitating boating, fishing, and other water activities.
• Playgrounds: The campground features playground areas, providing entertainment and recreation for children.
• Horseshoe Pits: For a bit of classic campground fun, horseshoe pits are also available.
• Group Picnic Sites: In addition to individual family sites, three group picnic sites are available, ideal for larger gatherings.
• Reservable Campsites: With 187 family sites and one group site, all with electric hookups, a significant number are reservable, allowing for convenient pre-planning, especially during peak seasons.

Features / Highlights:

• Exceptional Lake Views: A standout feature is the "EXCEPTIONAL views of the Lake Rathbun" available from many sites. This picturesque setting greatly enhances the camping experience, especially at sunrise and sunset.
• "HUGE Sites, Most Were Double-Wide": Campers consistently praise the spaciousness of the sites, noting they are "HUGE" and often "double-wide" allowing ample room for RVs, boats, or extra vehicles, ensuring privacy and comfort.
• Clean and Well-Maintained: Visitors frequently describe the sites as "Clean, well maintained" and the overall campground as "Very clean" and "well maintained."
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Especially during off-peak times, the park offers a "very quiet" and "generally, very peaceful" environment, ideal for relaxation and unwinding.
• Managed by US Army Corps of Engineers: As an Army Corps of Engineers campground, Island View is part of a network known for its well-structured facilities and recreational focus. Many Iowans appreciate the quality of these parks.
• Abundant Wildlife: The area is home to diverse wildlife, including "bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, wild turkey and other wildlife," offering opportunities for nature observation.
• Proximity to Rathbun Lake Activities: The campground's location provides excellent access to Rathbun Lake's famous fishing (crappie, channel catfish, walleye, bass) and boating (including sailing) opportunities.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: Reviewers consistently mention "Friendly helpful staff" and "Host/Staff was very helpful and hospitable," contributing to a positive visitor experience.
• Expansive Open Space: Beyond the individual sites, there are "Acres of open space throughout" the campground, providing a sense of freedom and natural beauty.

Contact Information:

Address: 19357 Islandview Pl, Mystic, IA 52574, USA

Phone: (641) 647-2079 (For campground inquiries during the open season, typically May-September)

Mobile Phone: +1 641-647-2079

During the closed season (October-April), general inquiries for Rathbun Lake Corps of Engineers parks might be directed to a main office number, such as (641) 647-2464. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on reservations, availability, and specific operational details, checking the official Recreation.gov website for Island View (Rathbun Lake) is highly recommended.

For Iowans, Island View Campground at Rathbun Lake is truly an ideal destination for an outdoor retreat. Its location on the shores of "Iowa's Ocean" provides convenient and direct access to a wealth of water-based activities that our state is famous for, from exceptional fishing to enjoyable boating and swimming. This means more time on the water and less time traveling, maximizing your leisure.

The standout feature for many locals will be the "HUGE sites," often "double-wide," offering unparalleled space and privacy. This is a significant advantage, especially for those with larger RVs, boats, or families needing room to spread out. The consistent praise for its "clean, well maintained sites" and the presence of "friendly helpful staff" ensures a comfortable and welcoming experience that fosters repeat visits. While the electric-only sites require a minor adjustment for water filling, the overall quality and natural beauty more than make up for it. As one of the "Wonderful Army Corp of Engineers campgrounds in this state," Island View benefits from a commitment to public recreation and a high standard of care. It’s a place where you can relax by the campfire with "EXCEPTIONAL views of the Lake Rathbun," observe diverse wildlife, and create lasting memories with family and friends, all within a convenient drive from many Iowa communities. Island View Campground truly offers a suitable and rewarding local escape into the heart of Iowa's natural splendor.

Island View Campground

19357 Islandview Pl, Mystic, IA 52574, USA