About This Park
Overview
Congratulations! You’ve just discovered Rend Lake, the perfect place to enjoy a wide variety of activities, events, and nature at its best. Even a short visit to Rend Lake will impress you with the versatility of this magnificent area. Rend Lake is made up of 20,633 acres of water and 19,523 acres of land. Wildlife in the area includes deer, turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, waterfowl, and others as seasons change throughout the year. 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
Take a leisurely morning stroll, ski or sail lake waters, spend the afternoon viewing inspiring art exhibits and end your day by the warm glow of a campfire under starry night skies. The fields, forests and waters of Rend Lake provide a natural haven for wildlife and an outdoor wonderland for you. Boat, hike, fish, hunt, swim, and explore at your leisure. If you prefer a little less nature, visit one of the resorts around the lake and delight in superb lodging and dining. Just minutes away you’ll find golf, trap and skeet, arts, antiques, museums, wineries, and more.
Facilities
South Sandusky Day Use Area features two large reservable picnic shelters (capacity 50 per shelter) with picnic tables, grill, and drinking water. The area has a boat ramp and playground all within walking distance. South Sandusky Day Use Area also has two restroom facilities and a shower facility.
Natural Features
South Sandusky Day Use Area sits along the banks of Rend Lake in the heart of Southern Illinois. The South Sandusky Day Use Area offers the most accessible public swimming beach on the lake. The sandy beach is spacious enough to accommodate a large number of people and provides visitors with convenient access to the refreshing waters of Rend Lake.
Wildlife in the area includes white tailed deer, wild turkey, fox, raccoon, opossum, waterfowl, and others as seasons change throughout the year.
Nearby Attractions
Rend Lake Visitors Center
Rend Lake Project Office
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (618) 724-2493.
Quick Information
- Type: Overnight Parking
- Network: Federal – Other
- Price Range: $15-35
- Rating: 4.6666665 / 5
Amenities
- ✓ Electric Hookup
- ✓ Picnic Tables
- ✓ Grills/Fire Ring
Contact & Location
Rend Lake Project Office 11981 REND CITY ROAD
Benton, IL 62812
Phone: 618-724-2493
Book This Park
Basic electric hookups make this workable for most RVs, though you'll rely on shared facilities for water and waste. Located in Benton, IL, this park puts you within easy reach of local attractions and regional highlights. Facilities are basic — bring what you need and expect a more self-sufficient camping experience.