DAM WEST AREA (DAY-USE)

Overview Dam West 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 Dam West Day Use Area features a large picnic shelter with tables, grills, and drinking water. The shelter can accommodate up to 100 guests, and the area has a boat ramp, playground, marina, and dock all within walking distance. Natural Features 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 Project Office/Visitor Center is conveniently located across the street from the Dam West Day Use Area.