Park & Pool

Ruthven has its own public swimming pool. The pool has a small slide, a separate kiddies pool, and locker/shower rooms. Small concession items are available for purchase. The pool is open from the end of May to the end of August. The swimming pool is part of Centennial Park. The park has playground equipment, a basketball court, a sand volleyball court, and a shelter house with picnic tables.

Ruthven Public Library

The Ruthven Public Library is a free public library serving the residents of Ruthven and rural Palo Alto County. Everyone is encouraged to have a library card. Visitors can access the library's catalog via their website as well as the library's digitized collection of the local newspaper. www.ruthven.lib.ia.us

Social Center

The Ruthven Social Center was built in 1991 and is available for use for family gatherings, celebrations, community groups, etc. The Social Center has a full kitchen, restroom facilities, and is handicapped accessible. There are tables and chairs within the center. It is available of a first come, first serve basis for a small donation for its upkeep. Please contact city hall at 712.837.5355 to reserve the Social Center.

Lost Island Lake

Lost Island Lake is great fun in all seasons! It is the 6th largest natural lake in Iowa. To the north are meadows, prairie lands and wetlands, with ample public lands for hunting seasons. Winter offers ice fishing, sledding, or even ice skating. Summer is also fun for all ages, whether it is swimming at the beach, boating, camping, fishing, or simply enjoying the walking trails or park.  Click here to to go the Lost Island page.

Ruthven Volunteer Fire Department

The Ruthven Volunteer Fire Department was established in 1874 and currently has 22 members.  Several of the members hold national certifications in one or more of Firefighter I and II, Instructor I, Hazmat Operations or Technician, Driver/Operator, Officer I, and Inspector I.  The members have also had specialized training and certification in Confined Space Rescue, High Angle Rope Rescue, Vehicle Extrication, Farm Equipment Extrication, Grain Bin Rescue, Interior Fire Attack, Emergency Vehicle Operations, and others.  They take pride in protecting our community and surrounding area.