Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

The Rathbun Wildlife Management Area provides boat ramp access to the Chariton River near Russell in Lucas County, Iowa. This access point serves as a gateway to paddling and boating on the Chariton River in south-central Iowa's gently rolling hills. The site offers a concrete boat ramp suitable for launching kayaks, canoes, and small motorboats, making it a practical entry point for river exploration and fishing.

The nearby Rathbun Lake area offers expanded recreational opportunities, with over 700 campsites available at this 11,000-acre reservoir. Amenities at the broader Rathbun complex include flush and pit toilets, showers, drinking water, a dump station, dock facilities, and a marina with bait shop. The region is known for abundant wildlife viewing, including bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, and wild turkey. Before launching, paddlers should contact local fisheries management or check current conditions, particularly regarding water flow from the Rathbun tailrace, which can affect river conditions seasonally.