South Marcum Recreational Area

For Illinois residents seeking a refreshing escape into nature, South Marcum Recreational Area at Rend Lake in Benton offers an exceptional camping experience. Nestled along the beautiful shores of Rend Lake, this campground provides a tranquil and spacious environment, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo adventurers looking to unwind and reconnect with the great outdoors. It’s a place where the serene beauty of Southern Illinois unfolds around you, inviting you to relax by the water, explore nature trails, or simply enjoy a quiet evening under the stars.

South Marcum Recreational Area is known for its well-maintained grounds and a layout that offers generous space between campsites, ensuring a sense of privacy and peace. Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of the facilities and the overall quiet atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat from the daily hustle and bustle. Whether you're pulling in with a large RV or setting up a tent, you’ll find the sites accommodating, with many offering pleasant views of the shimmering lake. The presence of a playground adds to its appeal as a family-friendly destination, ensuring younger visitors have plenty of space to play and enjoy their time outdoors.

Being part of the extensive Rend Lake recreational area, South Marcum provides access to a wealth of activities. From fishing and boating on the vast lake to exploring nearby hiking trails, there’s no shortage of ways to fill your days with adventure or quiet contemplation. For Illinoisans desiring a comfortable, clean, and spacious campground with beautiful lake views and a peaceful ambiance, South Marcum Recreational Area is a top-tier choice for your next outdoor getaway.

South Marcum Recreational Area is conveniently located at 12220 Rend City Rd, Benton, IL 62812, USA. This prime address places it on the southeastern shore of Rend Lake, a prominent and easily accessible body of water in Southern Illinois. For residents across the state, reaching South Marcum is straightforward, typically involving a direct drive via major interstates.

To get there, travelers often take exit 71 from I-57, turning west onto Route 14. A subsequent turn north onto Rend City Road leads directly to the campground. This clear route ensures that visitors can easily navigate to the area, minimizing travel time and maximizing their camping enjoyment. Despite its tranquil and natural setting, South Marcum Recreational Area remains highly accessible, blending the best of both worlds: serene outdoor living with convenient road access.

The location on Rend Lake means campers have immediate access to a vast aquatic playground. The lake itself is a hub for various water-based activities, making it a fantastic destination for those who enjoy fishing, boating, or simply being by the water. Furthermore, the surrounding area offers ample opportunities for land-based recreation, including hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Southern Illinois. This strategic placement ensures that South Marcum Recreational Area is not just a campground, but a gateway to a wide array of outdoor adventures, making it an ideal choice for Illinois locals looking for an accessible and activity-rich escape.

• Reservable campsites: Over 100 campsites are available for reservation, ensuring you can plan your trip in advance.
• Electric hookups: Provided at all Recreational Vehicle sites, offering power for RVs and essential equipment.
• Dump station: Conveniently located for RV waste disposal.
• Hot showers: Available in clean shower facilities for a comfortable camping experience.
• Flush toilets: Modern and clean restroom facilities are provided.
• Drinking water: Potable water is readily available throughout the campground.
• Playground: A dedicated area for children to play, located conveniently within the Whispering Pines camping loop near the shower house.
• Spacious lots: Campsites are noted for being roomy, providing ample space for campers.
• Picnic tables: Available at each campsite for outdoor dining and gatherings.
• Fire rings: Individual fire rings at each site, perfect for campfires and grilling.
• Pet-friendly environment: Pets are generally allowed, though they must be kept on a leash and supervised.
• Long-term reservations: Available in the majority of the Eagle loop for extended stays.
• Automated fee machines: For paying day use fees at nearby beaches (like North Marcum Beach).

• Beautiful Rend Lake views: Many sites offer direct or partial views of the scenic Rend Lake, enhancing the natural appeal.
• Spacious campsites: Campers consistently highlight the ample room available at each site, providing comfort and privacy.
• Clean facilities: Restrooms and shower houses are noted for their cleanliness, contributing to a pleasant stay.
• Quiet atmosphere: The campground offers a peaceful and serene environment, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.
• Kid-friendly amenities: A playground ensures entertainment for younger campers.
• Direct access to Rend Lake activities: Immediate proximity to fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities.
• Level basic sites: Many sites are level, making RV setup easier, though some larger sites might have a slight slant (typically back-to-front).
• Surrounded by nature: The campground is nestled within a natural setting, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing (deer, turkey, fox, etc.) and enjoying the outdoors.
• Proximity to walking paths: Good space for walking within the campground and access to nearby trails for exploration.
• Easy access from Interstate: Conveniently located just off I-57, simplifying arrival and departure.
• Operated by US Army Corps of Engineers: Implies a well-managed and maintained facility.

As a campground managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) as part of the Rend Lake recreation area, South Marcum Recreational Area's pricing and any potential "special offers" typically align with federal campground policies. General promotions in such settings usually involve national passes rather than specific, time-limited discounts offered by individual sites.

One significant benefit for eligible campers is the "America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass." Specifically, the Senior Pass and Access Pass offer a 50% discount on camping fees at federally-managed facilities like South Marcum. These passes can be obtained at the Rend Lake Project Office.

For the most accurate and current information on fees, availability, and any potential promotions, it is highly recommended that interested individuals in Illinois contact the campground directly or visit the official Recreation.gov website. Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance, which is advisable, especially for peak seasons. By reaching out via phone at (618) 724-2493, or checking the online booking portal, you can ensure you receive the most relevant pricing and availability details for your planned camping trip to South Marcum Recreational Area.

To plan your relaxing getaway or inquire about the South Marcum Recreational Area, you can use the following contact details:

• Address: 12220 Rend City Rd, Benton, IL 62812, USA
• Phone: (618) 724-2493
• Mobile Phone: +1 618-724-2493

For reservations, you can typically use the National Recreation Reservation System (NRRS) at 1-877-444-6777 or visit Recreation.gov, as it is a USACE-managed campground. The staff at the provided phone number can assist with campground-specific inquiries and offer guidance for your visit.

For Illinois residents, South Marcum Recreational Area at Rend Lake offers an exceptionally suitable and appealing camping destination, perfectly blending accessibility with natural beauty and comfort. Its location directly on the shores of Rend Lake means locals don't have to venture far for a truly immersive outdoor experience, making it ideal for spontaneous weekend getaways or longer, planned vacations. The ease of access from major interstates simplifies travel, allowing more time to enjoy the destination itself.

The campground's suitability is further enhanced by its consistently praised features. The spacious campsites provide ample room for relaxation and privacy, a significant advantage for those with larger RVs or families needing extra space. The commitment to clean facilities, including hot showers and flush toilets, ensures a comfortable stay that bridges the gap between rugged outdoor adventure and essential modern conveniences. Families, in particular, will appreciate the presence of a playground, adding to the entertainment options for children.

Beyond the campsite itself, the direct access to Rend Lake unlocks a world of recreational possibilities. Whether it's fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the scenic views, the lake provides a stunning backdrop for all kinds of outdoor activities. The quiet and peaceful atmosphere, combined with the assurance of a well-maintained USACE facility, makes South Marcum Recreational Area a reliable and highly enjoyable choice. For Illinoisans seeking a family-friendly, comfortable, and beautiful lakeside camping experience right in their home state, South Marcum Recreational Area stands out as an excellent option for creating lasting memories.