Centerville, Iowa, lures RV campers to Rathbun Lake's glassy waters for boating, fishing, and endless summer swims. Nine parks in our directory deliver affordable sites starting at $15 a night amid southern Iowa's rolling hills. Base your rig here to chase walleye by day and grill under starry skies by night.
Centerville anchors Appanoose County with Rathbun Lake, Iowa's go-to reservoir for sailboats and bass tournaments. The courthouse square buzzes on Saturdays with farmers markets selling sweet corn and handmade pies. Railroad Days every June packs Main Street with steam engines, parades, and bluegrass bands that echo till dusk.
Island View Park fits big groups and power-hungry RVs with 50-amp hookups, dump stations, and pet-friendly fields at $16–$230/night. Bridgeview Park draws budget boaters close to the lake for $15–$44/night, complete with group sites and pet policies. Prairie Ridge welcomes rallies with 50-amp service, dump stations, and Rathbun Lake access from $25–$120/night.
Centerville stands out for Rathbun Lake recreation and coal mining history. The 11,000-acre lake hosts fishing derbies and yacht clubs, drawing 500,000 visitors yearly. Downtown's courthouse square features Victorian buildings and annual Railroad Days with train rides and artisan fairs that celebrate the city's rail past.
Find nine RV parks near Centerville, including Island View Park, Bridgeview Park, and Prairie Ridge. Island View and Bridgeview hug Rathbun Lake with 50-amp hookups, dump stations, and pet areas. Prairie Ridge adds group sites perfect for rallies, all within 10 miles of town.
Yes, pets roam free at Island View Park, Bridgeview Park, and others near Centerville. These spots provide open fields and nearby trails around Rathbun Lake for walks. Always leash up and check site rules for breed limits or fees.