federalfederal

DALE MILLER YOUTH

federal · BENTON, IL

DirectionsCall
  • dump station0.2 mi
  • fuel station2.2 mi

USACE · Data Source: Recreation.gov

About

Overview Dale Miller Youth is located on the south-eastern shore of Rend Lake— 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 Dale Miller Youth Campground has five cabins with open floorplans to accomodate air mattresses or other sleeping equipment. There are also nine (9) RV campsites and several tent sites available, bringing the total capacity to 200 guests. A large enclosed picnic shelter with electricity, tables, a fireplace and grill is provided, along with a private beach, playground, baseball field, basketball court, and tennis court. 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.

Around this stay

Nearest surrounding services and recreation within ~25 mi — not on-site amenities.

  • dump station

    Dump station

    0.2 mi
  • fuel station

    Huck's Food & Fuel

    2.2 mi
  • grocery

    Walmart Supercenter

    2.4 mi
  • potable water

    Potable water

    0.5 mi
  • trailhead

    Bike Trail

    0.2 mi
  • attraction

    North Marcum Beach

    1.3 mi
  • recreation site

    Fishing Attractor

    0.2 mi

Contact & access

Source and verification

Last verified: 10/5/2026

See the Sources tab for provenance detail.