About South Marcum Day Use
Seasonal information
2026 Season availability
Campground Amenities
Most popular amenities
Pet friendly
Playground
Water and Hygiene
- Potable Water
On Site Services
- Playground
Water Access
- Lake Access
Pets and Policies
- Pet friendly
Reviews (4)
What Guests Are Saying
South Marcum Day Use is an excellent choice for gatherings, offering ample space for groups and well-maintained facilities. The water access and playground are enjoyable for all ages. A minor drawback is the rusted grills; bringing foil is recommended, but overall, it's a clean and accommodating venue for celebrations.
What Guests Are Saying
South Marcum Day Use is an excellent choice for gatherings, offering ample space for groups and well-maintained facilities. The water access and playground are enjoyable for all ages. A minor drawback is the rusted grills; bringing foil is recommended, but overall, it's a clean and accommodating venue for celebrations.
Review Summary
Kiely S
May 17, 2026
This shelter was perfect for a Mother’s Day cookout. Using 2 tables for food & gifts, there was still plenty of room for 17 people to be comfortable and get around. The water access and playground was great for the littles & bigs too haha. My only negative note is that the bottom of the grills are rusted through, so I recommend bringing foil to lay over the holes.
Patricia G
April 12, 2026
Great place to have family and friends get together! Very Clean!
Robert H
May 31, 2025
Everything was well maintained and easy to access. Worked out great for our celebration.
Lauren S
April 15, 2024
Very friendly staff!
Location & Directions for South Marcum Day Use
South Marcum Recreation Area, Benton, IL 62812 United States
Elevation: 131 ft
Getting There
From I-57 take exit 71 and turn west onto Route 14. Continue for 3 mi, then turn north on Rend City Road, turn right on Rend Lake Dam Rd. The entrance is on the left after about 3 mi, just past the main dam.
Highway access
The campground is accessible from I-57 via exit 71, then west on Route 14 for approximately 3 miles before turning north on Rend City Road.
Policies & Rules
General
- Off-road vehicle use must have prior approval.
- Daily fees apply for boat ramp use.
- This is a day use facility. Camping is prohibited at this location.
- 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.
- See Park Information Guide for additional rules and regulations.
Nearby Campgrounds
Nearby destinations
Last updated: October 7, 2026
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