South Marcum Day Use
SOUTH MARCUM DAY USE
Part of Rend Lake
Overview
South Marcum 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
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.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 Project Office/ Visitor Center
Rend Lake Spillway Recreation Area
Rend Lake Bike Trail
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (618) 724-2493.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.
- 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
- Hiking - Hiking
- Boating - Boating
- Biking - Biking
- Canoeing - Canoeing
- Birding - Birding
- Fishing - Fishing
- Kayaking - Kayaking
- Water Access - Water Access
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.
Contact Information
Phone: 618-724-2493
Rend Lake Project Office11981 REND CITY ROAD
BENTON, IL 62812-9803 South Marcum Recreation Area
11623 TRAILHEAD LANE
Benton, IL 62812
