South Marcum Day Use
Rend Lake
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 are 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.
South Marcum Day Use Area features a picnic shelter with tables, grills, and drinking water. The shelter can accommodate up to 25 guests, and the area has a boat ramp and playground 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 facility. Camping is prohibited at this location.
- 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.
See Park Information Guide for additional rules and regulations.
Natural Features
South Marcum Day-Use Area sits along the banks of Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois. Rend Lake is made up of 18,900 acres of water and 20,000 acres of land.
Wildlife in the area includes white tailed deer, wild turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, waterfowl, and others as seasons change throughout the year.
Nearby Attractions
Rend Lake Dam
Rend Lake Visitors Center
Rend Lake Project Office
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
Physical Address
11623 TRAILHEAD LANE Benton IL 62812
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 exit 71 and turn west onto Route 14. Continue for 3 miles, then turn north on Rend City Road, turn right on Rend Lake Dam Rd. The entrance is on the left after about 3 miles, just past the main dam.
Available Campsites
Photo Gallery
