About Dam West Area (Day-use)
Seasonal information
2026 Season availability
Open year round
This campground is open year round, providing flexibility for your stay.
Campground Amenities
Most popular amenities
Playground
On Site Services
- Playground
Water Access
- Lake Access
- Marina
Reviews (8)
What Guests Are Saying
The shelter was not clean and had a significant spider presence, leading to disappointment. Due to these conditions, the group chose to relocate to the visitors center. Overall, the experience highlighted a need for better maintenance.
What Guests Are Saying
The shelter was not clean and had a significant spider presence, leading to disappointment. Due to these conditions, the group chose to relocate to the visitors center. Overall, the experience highlighted a need for better maintenance.
Review Summary
Theresa P
September 20, 2026
The location was perfect for our family picnic. The pavilion was fine and included electricity which allowed us to use crockpots for hot food. The proximity to the lake was nice. We had a couple boats to provide boat rides for the kids. And the kids played in the water at a sandy spot (with adult supervision). Volleyball net and horseshoe pits were a bonus. There was plenty of shade trees which was needed since it was a hot, sunny day. We brought our own grill because the grill provided is in bad shape. One side had a hole in the bottom (rusted out). Otherwise the site was great and our family had a great picnic/ reunion!
Carrie P
September 13, 2026
This shelter is perfect for feeling the breeze off of the lake. Although this site is described as having non electric. We did find an outlet that was beneficial.
Bathroom is convenient.
Megan S
October 12, 2024
The shelter wasn’t clean and was over run with spiders. I was very disappointed. I know it’s outdoors but it was so bad we had to move our small group to the visitors center.
Megan S
October 12, 2024
The shelter wasn’t clean and was over run with spiders. I was very disappointed. I know it’s outdoors but it was so bad we had to move our small group to the visitors center.
Stephanie W
June 7, 2021
Clean bathrooms close by and a spacious pavilion overlooking the water. Close to a boat dock but not so close it ruins the beauty.
Stephanie W
June 7, 2021
Clean bathrooms close by and a spacious pavilion overlooking the water. Close to a boat dock but not so close it ruins the beauty.
Gerald R
August 18, 2020
perfect for picnic & boating
Gerald R
August 18, 2020
perfect for picnic & boating
Location & Directions for Dam West Area (Day-use)
Rend Lake Project Office, Benton, IL 62812-9803 United States
Elevation: 129 ft
Getting There
From I-57 take take exit 71 and turn west onto Route 14. Continue for 3 mi, then turn north on Rend City Road. The entrance is on the right after about 4 mi, just past the main dam.
Highway access
The campground is accessible from I-57 via exit 71, which connects to Route 14. Route 14 provides direct access to the area.
Policies & Rules
General
- Off-road vehicle use must have prior approval.
- Daily fees apply for boat ramp use.
- This is a day-use area. Camping is not permitted at this location.
- See Park Information Guide for additional rules and regulations.
- 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.
Nearby Campgrounds
Nearby destinations
Last updated: October 7, 2026
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