Overview

Dale Miller Youth is located on the south-eastern shore of Rend Lake— the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events, and nature at its best. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. 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.

Facilities

Dale Miller Youth Campground has five cabins with open floorplans to accomodate air mattresses or other sleeping equipment. There are also nine (9) RV campsites and several tent sites available, bringing the total capacity to 200 guests. A large enclosed picnic shelter with electricity, tables, a fireplace and grill is provided, along with a private beach, playground, baseball field, basketball court, and tennis court.

Natural Features

The fields, forests, and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Woodland areas are made up of hickory, oak, and beautiful maples providing habitat to white-tail deer, turkeys, racoons, and many more native species. The shorelines are an excellent viewing area for waterfowl, shorebirds, and bank fishing the known crappie population.

Recreation

Within the area, visitors can access the Rend Lake Bike Trail—over 20 miles of paved pathways that guide riders through scenic woodlands and across views of Rend Lake and the Big Muddy River. The area offers abundant opportunities for boating, hiking, fishing, hunting, swimming, and general outdoor exploration. Additional recreation features around Rend Lake include an archery complex with a 3D trail and elevated shooting platform, a dog park with a swimming feature, and two public swimming beaches (including the pet-friendly North Marcum Beach).

Important Notices

• During the Peak season, an additonal fee of $75.00 will be added to the Use fee charged on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. On the Non-Peak season, an additional fee of $50.00 will be added to the use fee charged on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. 

• Register with gate attendant at South Marcum Campground upon arrival to pick up cabin keys.

• Prior approval for the placement of non-camping equipment including portable toilets, inflatables, refrigerators, etc. required. Please contact the Project Office for additional information, (618) 724-2493. 

• The cabins have an open floor plan. Campers should bring their own equipment (air mattress, cot, etc.) to sleep on. Window A/C units are NOT allowed due to damage occuring to windows and screens within the cabins. 

• 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.

Available Activities

• Fishing - Fishing
• Camping - Camping
• Boating - Boating
• Biking - Biking
• Birding - Birding
• Picnicking - Picnicking
• Swimming - Swimming
• Water Access - Water Access

Directions

From I-57 take take exit 71 and turn west onto Route 14. After 3 miles turn right on Rend City Road, then right again on Main Dam Road. Continue 3 miles to the camp entrance on the left.

Contact Information

Phone: 618-724-2493

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip