North Marcum Day Use Area
Rend Lake, Illinois
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As of October 2026, North Marcum Day Use Area is a campground in Illinois with 2 campsites. North Marcum Day Use Area is booked through Recreation.gov.
- PermitSnag checks North Marcum Day Use Area for availability and tells alert holders when a site opens up.
- North Marcum Day Use Area is located at 38.0524° N, 88.9516° W.
- people allowed on each site
- 75
North Marcum Day Use Area reservations and next available dates
October 2026
Stay and booking rules
- Maximum stay: 14 nights
- Military discount available
Published by Recreation.gov for North Marcum Day Use Area, read on October 1, 2026.
Campsites at North Marcum Day Use Area
- Group 2
- Hookups 2
Amenities
- potable water
At a glance: Setting: Mountain · Access: Paved road.
Things to do: fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, biking, wildlife, photography.
All sites at North Marcum Day Use Area, as listed by Recreation.gov
Every site is in the PICNIC SHELTER 7,8 loop.
| Site | Type | Sleeps | Hookups |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | Group | 75 | Electric |
| 8 | Group | 75 | Electric |
About North Marcum Day Use Area
Overview
North Marcum Day Use Area— the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events, and nature at its best. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. 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
Within the area, visitors can access the Rend Lake Bike Trail—over 20 miles of paved pathways that guide riders through scenic woodlands and across views of Rend Lake and the Big Muddy River. The area offers abundant opportunities for boating, hiking, fishing, hunting, swimming, and general outdoor exploration. Additional recreation features around Rend Lake include an archery complex with a 3D trail and elevated shooting platform, a dog park with a swimming feature, and two public swimming beaches (including the pet-friendly North Marcum Beach).
Facilities
North Marcum Day Use Area features two large picnic shelters with tables, grills, and drinking water. The shelters can accommodate up to 75 guests each. Additionally, the area has a boat ramp, playground, swimming beach, and dock all within walking distance. The beach offers areas for swimmers and pet lovers alike. There is also a designated area that is dog friendly, allowing swimmers and their dogs to enjoy the beach together!
Natural Features
North Marcum Day Use Area sits along the banks of Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois. Plenty of shade and a swimming beach make this day use area desirable. The fields, forests, and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Woodland areas are made up of hickory, oak, and beautiful maples providing habitat to white-tail deer, turkeys, racoons, and many more native species. The shorelines are an excellent viewing area for waterfowl, shorebirds, and bank fishing the known crappie population.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (618) 724-2493.
Nearby Attractions
Rend Lake Bike Trail
Rend Lake Mountain Bike Trail
North Marcum Archery Complex
Rend Lake Golf Complex featuring 27-holes, a lodge, and restaurant
Rules and notices at North Marcum Day Use Area
Recreation.gov does not date these notices. We last read them on October 1, 2026. Check North Marcum Day Use Area on Recreation.gov
Notices from Recreation.gov
No alcoholic beverages within the designated beach area.
Beach users must stay within designated swim areas.
At the beach, pets are allowed only in the designated areas.
Off-road vehicle use must have prior approval.
This is a day use facility. Camping is prohibited at this location.
Daily fees apply for boat ramp and beach use.
Shelter reservations require a primary occupant to be 18 years of age or older and to be present during use.
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.
North Marcum Day Use Area FAQ
How hard is it to get a campsite at North Marcum Day Use Area?
North Marcum Day Use Area is rated "Hard to Book" based on historical demand. This campground is popular and often books out weeks in advance. Your best strategy is to monitor cancellations.
How do I find last-minute availability at North Marcum Day Use Area?
Cancellations happen frequently at North Marcum Day Use Area, especially 1-2 weeks before check-in dates. PermitSnag monitors availability 24/7 and sends instant alerts when sites open up due to cancellations. This is often the best way to snag popular campsites.
How many campsites does North Marcum Day Use Area have?
North Marcum Day Use Area has 2 campsites.
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