North Marcum Day Use Area

North Marcum Day Use Area sits along the banks of Rend Lake, in the heart of Southern Illinois — 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. Plenty of shade and a swimming beach make this day use area desirable. North Marcum features two large picnic shelters with tables, grills and drinking water, each accommodating up to 75 guests. A boat ramp, playground, swimming beach and dock are all within walking distance. The beach offers areas for swimmers and pet lovers alike — a designated dog-friendly area lets swimmers and their dogs enjoy the beach together. From here 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. There are abundant opportunities for boating, hiking, fishing, hunting and swimming, and additional features around the lake include an archery complex with a 3D trail and elevated shooting platform and a dog park with a swimming feature. The woodland areas are made up of hickory, oak and beautiful maples, providing habitat to white-tail deer, turkeys, raccoons and many more native species. The shorelines are an excellent viewing area for waterfowl, shorebirds and bank fishing the known crappie population. Also nearby are the Rend Lake Mountain Bike Trail, the North Marcum Archery Complex and the Rend Lake Golf Complex, which features 27 holes, a lodge and a restaurant.