Overview

North Sandusky Day Use Area— 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

North Sandusky Day Use Area features two large reservable 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.

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).

Nearby Attractions

Rend Lake Bike Trail

Rend Lake Project Office/ Visitor Center

Rend Lake Dog Park

Blackberry Nature Trail

Contact Info

Important Notices

• 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.

• 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.

Available Activities

• Boating - Boating
• Biking - Biking
• Disc Golf - Disc Golf
• Canoeing - Canoeing
• Birding - Birding
• Fishing - Fishing
• Kayaking - Kayaking
• Picnicking - Picnicking

Directions

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.

Contact Information

Phone: 618-724-2493

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip