TopSide Marinas, a family-owned company that acquires and operates high-quality marinas throughout the United States, has recently acquired Rathbun Lake Marina, a full-service marina and resort destination located on Rathbun Lake in Moravia. The acquisition strengthens TopSide’s growing footprint in the Midwest and marks its entry into the Iowa market.
Located at 21646 Marina Place, the 160-acre leasehold property with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers features approximately 246 wet slips, boat rentals, four campgrounds with roughly 144 campsites and a 12-room hotel. Guests can also enjoy on-site dining at Louie’s Lakeside Bistro and Barbecue, a seasonal, independently operated restaurant open from April 15 through October 15 that is accessible by boat, camper or car. Established in 2010, Rathbun Lake Marina offers other outdoor, resort-style amenities like a soccer field, frisbee golf and other family-friendly activities.
TopSide Marinas plans to invest in several enhancements including expanding capacity with an increased total slip count as well as adding roofs to uncovered docks and introducing a service department. To accommodate additional public boat launches, the boat rental operation and parking area will both be expanded.
“Rathbun Lake Marina is a well-maintained property with strong local management and a loyal customer base,” said Michael McMahon, regional vice president of TopSide Marinas. “We were drawn to the marina’s position as a gathering place for families and boaters in the region including its additional amenities that provide more opportunities for outdoor recreation and making memories. We look forward to building on its strong foundation while making strategic investments that add to the experience for guests and the surrounding community.”
Rathbun Lake, often referred to as one of Iowa’s premier boating and fishing destinations, draws families, campers and anglers from across the Midwest with its expansive shoreline, campgrounds, trails and water activities. The nearby town of Moravia serves as a welcoming gateway retreat with its small-town charm and a relaxed pace of life that complements the lake experience.
“After more than 15 wonderful years of owning and operating Rathbun Lake Marina, the time came for us to pass the torch. This marina has always been more than a business to us; it has been a community and a place where lasting memories are made. We chose TopSide Marinas because they share our commitment to exceptional service and taking care of both the marina and the people who make it special. We are confident the marina is in great hands and look forward to seeing it continue to thrive in the years ahead,” said Brett Nuckols, Doug and Sheila Clemens, former owners of Rathbun Lake Marina.
This first Iowa marina follows the company’s February 2026 entry into Michigan with the acquisition of Bay Harbor Marina. TopSide Marinas continued U.S. expansion reinforces its commitment to operational excellence, community stewardship, and preserving the spirit of recreational boating. TopSide Marinas also owns and operates marinas across the country including Hideaway Marina, Cape Fair Marina and Campbell Point Marina in Missouri; Galveston Yacht Marina, North Point Marina and April Plaza Marina in Texas; Beavers Bend Marina in Oklahoma; Rock Creek Marina in Kansas; Bay Marine of Sturgeon Bay and Pikes Bay Marina in Wisconsin; and, Larsen Marine and Bay Marine of Chicago in Illinois.