Dam West Area (Day-Use)
Congratulations! You've just discovered Rend Lake, the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events, and nature at its best. Even a short visit to Rend Lake will impress you with the versatility of this magnificent area. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. Wildlife in the area includes deer, turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, warerfowl, and others as seasons change througout the year. Whether you're looking fo high adventure, a peaceful retreat, or something in between, you'll find it hre in the heart of Southern Illinois.
Dam West Day Use Area features a large picnic shelter with tables, grills, and drinking water. The shelter can accommodate up to 100 guests, and the area has a boat ramp, playground, marina, and dock all within walking distance.
Need to Know
Off-road vehicle use must have prior approval.
Daily fees apply for boat ramp use.
This is a day-use area. Camping is not permitted at this location.
See Park Information Guide for additional rules and regulations.
Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
Natural Features
Dam West Day Use Area sits along Southwestern banks of Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois.
Nearby Attractions
Rend Lake Project Office/Visitor Center is conveniently located across the street from the Dam West Day Use Area.
Recreation
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
Contact Information
Mailing Address
Rend Lake Project Office 11981 Rend City Road BENTON IL 62812-9803
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 618-724-2493
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From I-57 take take exit 71 and turn west onto Route 14. Continue for 3 miles, then turn north on Rend City Road. The entrance is on the right after about 4 miles, just past the main dam.
