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, waterfowl, and others as seasons change throughout the year. Whether you're looking for high adventure, a peaceful retreat, or something in between, you'll find it here in the heart of Southern Illinois.
North Sandusky Day Use Area features two large group picnic shelters with tables, grills, and drinking water. The shelters can accommodate up to 50 guests each, and the area has a boat ramp, boat dock, playground, and disc golf course all within walking distance.
Off-road vehicle use must have prior approval.
Daily fees apply for boat ramp use.
This is a day use facility. Camping is prohibited at this location.
See Park Information Guide for additional rules and regulations.
North Sandusky Day Use Area sits along the banks of Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois.
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.
Rend Lake Project Office 11981 Rend City Rd BENTON IL 62812-9803
For campground inquiries, please call: 618-724-2493
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
From I-57 take take exit 77, and turn west onto Route 154. Continue for 4.5 miles, then turn south on Rend City Road. Continue through the stop sign to the park entrance.