South Marcum Campground
4.48489 reviews11623 Trailhead Lane
South Marcum Campground
$16.00 - $44.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$44.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$16.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $16 for walk-in sites to $44 for premium RV electric sites. Rates vary by season and site type. Discounts, taxes, and incremental charges are not included in displayed rates.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Rend Lake, South Marcum Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with over 100 thoughtfully designed campsites that blend modern comfort with natural beauty. Each site comes equipped with electric hookups and easy access to drinking water, while the campground's hot showers and flush toilets ensure a comfortable stay without sacrificing the outdoor experience. Wake up to panoramic lake views that stretch to the horizon, cast your line right from the shoreline, or explore miles of scenic biking trails that wind through the surrounding landscape. Families return year after year to this meticulously maintained haven, drawn by its reputation for cleanliness, tranquility, and the perfect balance of amenities and authentic outdoor living.
South Marcum Campground provides accommodations for tent camping, RVs, group camping, and primitive camping. The variety of site options caters to different preferences and camping styles.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic beauty of Southern Illinois through four distinct seasons at South Marcum. Spring arrives with gentle warmth and blooming wildflowers, creating ideal conditions for early-season camping adventures. Summer brings sun-drenched days perfect for swimming and water sports, with temperatures that invite long evenings around the campfire. As autumn paints the landscape in brilliant reds and golds, the crisp air and spectacular foliage create a photographer's paradise. While the region experiences its share of rainfall, particularly during transitional seasons, these showers help maintain the lush, green environment that makes this corner of Illinois so special.
Natural Features and ScenerySouth Marcum Campground showcases the breathtaking beauty of Rend Lake, where uninterrupted water views create a constantly changing canvas of light and color. The shoreline offers prime fishing spots where anglers can cast for bass, crappie, and catfish without ever leaving the campground. Towering mature trees provide natural shade and frame peaceful camping spots, while creating habitat for the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. Early risers are often rewarded with sightings of white-tailed deer grazing in nearby meadows, while wild turkeys strut through the campground, adding an element of wilderness to your morning coffee ritual.
Geological RegionSet in the heart of Southern Illinois, South Marcum Campground sits on the shores of the impressive 20,633-acre Rend Lake, one of the region's most spectacular water features. This diverse landscape seamlessly blends rolling fields with dense forests, creating a tapestry of ecosystems that support rich biodiversity. The lake itself, a masterpiece of water management and recreation planning, serves as the centerpiece of this geological wonderland where the gentle hills of Southern Illinois meet the expansive waters that have become a destination for outdoor enthusiasts from across the Midwest.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySouth Marcum Campground provides accessible campsites, flush toilets, showers, parking, and walkways for individuals with disabilities. Accessible trails are also available.
Sites SizeThe campsites vary in size, with some described as spacious and large enough for privacy. Specific sites like #121 and #133 are noted for their accommodations and size.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy of campsites is generally high, with many sites described as well-spaced and shielded by mature trees.
Total Campsites100 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites in the Whispering Pines loop for shade and quiet surroundings. Avoid steep or uneven sites if leveling is a concern.
Best CampsitesPopular campsites include T-08, T-14, and 141, praised for lake views and proximity to amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
5:00 PM
Check-out
4:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights during any single visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Varies by site
- tent sites allow up to 4 tents.
Groups
Group sites accommodate larger parties and are well-spaced for privacy. Specific site numbers are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are organized into loops such as Whispering Pines and Owl's Roost, with paved roads and paths.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen March 28 through November 9 during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityTwo walk-up areas available beneath tall pines, with sites noted for scenic beauty and proximity to water.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time prior to arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations result in forfeiture of the first night's fees.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
South Marcum Campground offers diverse recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, biking, and wildlife viewing. The picturesque setting of Rend Lake enhances these activities.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available and well-maintained. Rend Lake’s bike and hiking trails are particularly praised for their concrete paths, scenic views, and suitability for all ages.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with Rend Lake known for its channel catfish and other species. Some campsites offer convenient access to fishing spots.Swimming
Swimming areas are accessible, but some reviews mention that specific beaches may require driving.Biking
Biking trails are highly regarded, with a total of 20.6 miles of paved paths. The trails are well-suited for casual and serious cyclists alike.Boating
Boating is a key draw at Rend Lake, with facilities for kayaking, canoeing, and motorized boats. Some campsites provide easy access to the water.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with deer, wild turkeys, and raccoons commonly spotted. Skunks and other nocturnal creatures are also reported.Beach activities
Beach activities are available, though some users report limited direct access from campsites. Sandusky Beach is a common destination.Cultural and Educational Programs
Programs such as geocaching classes are offered at the visitors’ center. These provide an interactive way to explore the area.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not mentioned explicitly.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular, with easy access to the lake from various campsites.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Local firewood purchase encouraged to protect forests. Fire rings provided at each site.
- Quiet hours are Starts at 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include raccoons scavenging for food at night and occasional skunk activity. Campsites near steep slopes present leveling challenges.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 75%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital is Benton Community Healthcare (approx. 8 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 28 to November 9.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available throughout the campground. User reviews do not elaborate on location or pickup schedules.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Rend Lake with easy access for fishing and water activities.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include uneven campsites, inadequate lighting at bathrooms, and noisy playgrounds after quiet hours.
HostCampground hosts are described as friendly and helpful in multiple reviews.
Campground Map
11623 Trailhead Lane
Driving directionsFrom I-57 take exit 71 and turn west onto Highway 14. After 3 miles turn right on Rend City Road, then right on Rend Lake Dam Rd. Continue 3 miles to the park entrance on the left.
Roads are paved and accessible year-round; occasional minor navigation challenges due to road names not aligning with GPS directions (as noted in user reviews).Nearby places
Benton (approximately 8 miles), Mt. Vernon (approximately 20 miles), Marion (approximately 35 miles), Sesser (approximately 15 miles).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and essentials available in Benton and Sesser
Walmart mentioned as a frequent supply destination.
Camper Reviews
4.5
489 reviews
South Marcum Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight South Marcum Campground’s cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and spacious campsites as key positives. However, some complaints focus on unlevel sites and occasional issues with park staff.
Review Summaries
Based on 489 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and spacious sites, proximity to nature, well-maintained shower facilities, and accessible hiking and biking trails.
Based on 489 reviewsCommon Concerns
Unlevel sites, limited full hookups, weak water pressure at some sinks, occasional mismanagement by staff, and site slopes causing difficulty for trailers.
Based on 489 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Reserve well in advance for full hookup sites, bring leveling blocks for sloped sites, and secure food due to nocturnal scavengers like raccoons. Consider avoiding Owl’s Roost Loop if sensitive to...
Based on 489 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer and early fall are the most popular seasons, with reviews praising the lush greenery and wildlife. Winter reviews are limited due to seasonal closures.
Based on 489 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful COE campground. Nice paved roads and concrete pads." "SUPER clean, and well kept. Grass was freshly mowed." "We love South Marcum & stayed for 2 weeks…nice site, could use more shade."...
Based on 489 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #121: Long and level. Site #133: Unlevel due to a large puddle, causing bug issues. Site #077: Spacious and almost perfectly level. Site #056: Beautiful lake view but slopes toward the lake.
Based on 489 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible sites are well-maintained, with nearby restroom facilities. However, some reviews mention insufficient room for wheelchairs in some areas.
Based on 489 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and reviews often mention seeing unleashed dogs causing disturbances. Enforcement of leash rules is recommended.
Based on 489 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025