Welcome to City of Ruthven Ruthven & Lost Island...A Great Place To Drop Anchor
"Small-town living at its finest!" Located in Palo Alto County in northwest Iowa on Highway 18, Ruthven is a town with about 725 residents. Founded in 1884, Ruthven has been called the "Hub of the Wetlands" since five lakes are located within 10 miles of the community. Four miles north of town, Lost Island Lake offers visitors and residents a swimming beach, campground, cafe, resorts, public boat launches and beautiful hiking trails.
Ruthven residents are proud of their K-12 public school, a well-kept public park and swimming pool, a public library, fire department, five churches, and a community care facility that has assisted- and independent-living units. Ruthven celebrates "Bully Bullhead Weekend" annually on the weekend following July 4th. The event includes a parade, a tractor ride, a kid's carnival, athletic tournaments, and of course, the bullhead fishing tournament.
Conserve Water
It's our most precious natural resource. Every drop counts...
Shop Local
Whether it is a local farmer's market or main street shops, shopping local sustains our community and supports local merchants. A win-win for all!
Featured News
Touch a Truck
9/24/2023
The city of Ruthven will be hosting a 'Touch a Truck' event on Sunday September 24th from 11 - 2. The event will take place on Rolling Street right outside of Bully's Bar and Grill. Bully's will be offering Hot Dog and Burger meals for purchase. There will be an abundance of trucks and...
NO COUNCIL MEETING 9/13/2023
9/12/2023
There will be no council meeting on September 13 2023.
A Finding of No Significant Impact (FNSI) has been issued for the City of Ruthven
5/2/2022