160
Total Campsites
Campground
159
Reservable Sites
Mixed (reservable + first-come)
6
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
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Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About SOUTH MARCUM CAMPGROUND
Overview Congratulations! You've just discovered Rend Lake, the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events and nature at its best. Even a short visit to Rend Lake will impress you with the versatility of this magnificent area. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. Wildlife in the area includes deer, turkey, fox, raccoon, opossu, waterfowl, and others as seasons change throughout the year. 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. Recreation Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more. Facilities Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you'll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more. Natural Features South Marcum Campground sits along the banks of Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois. With plenty of unobstructed views of the water, campers are able to take in scenic sunsets as well as enjoy activities such as bank fishing, right from the campground. Nearby Attractions Rend Lake Dam
- 160 total campsites listed.
- 159 reservable sites plus first-come options.
- 6 accessible campsites listed.
- Most common site type: standard electric (140).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes SOUTH MARCUM CAMPGROUND special
South Marcum Campground brings Southern Illinois lake country to life on the welcoming shores of Rend Lake, one of the region's most popular outdoor recreation destinations. With 160 sites spread through shaded groves of oak and hickory, this well-maintained campground strikes an appealing balance between comfortable amenities and genuine connection with the natural landscape of the Shawnee Hills. Rend Lake covers nearly 19,000 acres and offers outstanding fishing for largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish, consistently ranking among the best fishing lakes in Illinois. The surrounding area features miles of hiking and biking trails, two golf courses, a shooting complex, and a vibrant calendar of community events throughout the warmer months. The nearby Rend Lake Resort and visitors center add convenience without diminishing the campground's relaxed, outdoorsy character. The camping season stretches from spring through fall, with April through June offering the best fishing and pleasant temperatures before the humid summer heat settles in. Fall brings beautiful foliage along the lakeshore and comfortable camping weather. Sites are a mix of electric hookup and primitive options, accommodating everyone from RV travelers to tent campers seeking simplicity. Weekend reservations during summer holidays fill quickly, so planning ahead pays off. For families and anglers in the greater St. Louis and Southern Illinois region, South Marcum is a reliable, rewarding getaway that keeps drawing people back season after season.
Campsite Inventory
160 sites to choose from
STANDARD ELECTRIC
139
Reservable
6
Accessible
WALK TO
14
Reservable
0
Accessible
RV ELECTRIC
6
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
Accessibility
Yes
BBQ
Yes
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Single
Check-in time
05:00 PM, 5:00 PM
Check-out time
04:00 PM, 4:00 PM
Double Driveway
Yes
Driveway entry
Back-In
Driveway surface
Paved
Electricity Hookup
50/30
Fire Pit
Yes
Full Hookup
50
GRILLS
Yes
Hike In Distance to Site
125, 135, 235, 312
Lantern Pole
Yes
Max guests
8
Max vehicle length (ft)
30, 32, 36, 37
Minimum guests
Yes
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
618-724-2493
Getting There
From I-57 take exit 71 and turn west onto Highway 14. After 3 miles turn right on Rend City Road, then right on Rend Lake Dam Rd. Continue 3 miles to the park entrance on the left.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to SOUTH MARCUM CAMPGROUND.
How do reservations work for SOUTH MARCUM CAMPGROUND?
Reservation availability for SOUTH MARCUM CAMPGROUND can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at SOUTH MARCUM CAMPGROUND?
SOUTH MARCUM CAMPGROUND currently lists STANDARD ELECTRIC (140), WALK TO (14), RV ELECTRIC (6).
Where is SOUTH MARCUM CAMPGROUND located?
SOUTH MARCUM CAMPGROUND is in Illinois near Benton. Coordinates: 38.0338, -88.9402.
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