Honey Creek State Park

About this park

Visitors to Honey Creek State Park return often to enjoy the beautiful setting of 828 acres of rolling, timbered hills against a background of beautiful Rathbun Lake, Iowa's largest lake. In 1954, Congress authorized the construction of Rathbun Lake because the Chariton River Valley, in south central Iowa, was susceptible to flood and drought problems. The dam was completed in 1969 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Rathbun Lake provides flood protection for 149,300 acres of land along the Chariton River. In addition to Honey Creek State Park, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources manages the Rathbun Fish Hatchery and Fisheries Research Facility located below the dam. Picnicking/Shelters Honey Creek is a great place for picnics and larger gatherings. Two open picnic shelters are located at scenic points overlooking the lake and may be reserved online. Camping Honey Creek is a favorite destination for camping enthusiasts. There are modern campsites, full hook-up sites (water and sewer), showers and restrooms. Electricity is available year-round in the campgrounds. Honey Creek has one universally accessible campsite as well. Cabins Honey Creek has four rustic pine log camping cabins that offer visitors a sense of pioneer lifestyle. These cabins have an open floor plan, covered porch, basic furnishings, electricity, and are located near the campgrounds. The cabins have a microwave and dorm-size refrigerator, heat and air conditioning. They do not have water or sanitary facilities but renters may use the campground sanitary facilities. Trails Hikers will enjoy five miles of multi-use trails and the Woodland Interpretive Trail. Follow the interpretive trail and learn about the eleven ancient Woodland Indian mounds left behind by the first inhabitants of the area. Displays on the history of Honey Creek are located in a shelter at the beginning of the interpretive trail. Lake Activities Rathbun Lake is very popular with sail boaters, power boaters, water skiers and anglers. It is known as one of the best spots for crappie and walleye fishing. Channel catfish are also available to challenge anglers. The park has excellent boat launching ramps conveniently located as well as the largest boat ramp on the lake. The North Boat Ramp is designated as 24-hour fishing access. Local Events/Attractions Just across from the Honey Creek boat ramp and a short drive from the park is Honey Creek Resort State Park. The resort opened in 2009 and features a 105 room hotel and lodge, an indoor water park, restaurant, 28 cottages and championship 18 hole golf course. For more information about the resort and its amenities or to make a reservation, visit www.honeycreekresort.com . Nearby Towns Honey Creek is located about twelve miles from Moravia and four miles from Iconium. The park is approximately twenty-four miles from both Albia and Centerville.