South Marcum Day Use in IL -- Campground & RV Camping

South Marcum Day Use Area is a day-use park on the shores of the 20,633-acre Rend Lake in southern Illinois. Bounded by native oak, hickory, and maple woods, the site features a reservable picnic shelter for up to 25 people equipped with tables, outdoor grills, and drinking water. A public boat ramp and playground sit within walking distance of the shelter. Visitors have direct access to the paved 20-mile Rend Lake Bike Trail, alongside nearby public swimming beaches, a dog park, and an archery complex featuring a 3D shooting trail.

Getting there: 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.

• Moderately separated here.
• Sits on broad, near-level ground.
• The Rend Lake shoreline is 0.1 mi off.
• Estimated night sky: Bortle 4, a rural sky with a glow on the horizon.
• Open country, with nothing named rising within 30 miles.