Illinois / Franklin County

South Marcum Day Use

Closed — Open year-round for day use. This is a day use facility only; overnight camping is prohibited. Daily fees apply for boat ramp use.

About

South Marcum Day Use Area sits along the banks of Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois, part of a larger 20,633-acre lake and 19,523-acre land management area. The facility features a reservable picnic shelter with tables, grills, and drinking water that can accommodate up to 25 guests. A boat ramp and playground are within walking distance of the shelter. 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 provides excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The woodlands consist of hickory, oak, and maples providing habitat for white-tailed deer, turkeys, raccoons, and many native species. The shorelines offer excellent viewing areas for waterfowl and shorebirds, as well as bank fishing for the lake's known crappie population. This is a day use facility only; overnight camping is not permitted at this location. Daily fees apply for boat ramp use. The area is conveniently located near the South Marcum Campground and the Rend Lake Project Office/Visitor Center.

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 Road. The entrance is on the left after about 3 miles, just past the main dam.

Nearby Campgrounds