SOUTH SANDUSKY DAY USE
federal · Benton, IL
- dump station1.0 mi
- fuel station4.2 mi

USACE · Data Source: Recreation.gov
About
Overview South Sandusky 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 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. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (618) 724-2493. Nearby Attractions Rend Lake Project Office/ Visitor Center Rend Lake Bike Trail Rend Lake Marina Rend Lake Dog Park Blackberry Nature Trail
Around this stay
Nearest surrounding services and recreation within ~25 mi — not on-site amenities.
- 1.0 mi
dump station
Dump station
- 4.2 mi
fuel station
Casey's General Store
- 4.2 mi
grocery
Sesser Foodland
- 1.0 mi
potable water
Potable water
- 2.1 mi
attraction
North Marcum Beach
- 0.5 mi
recreation site
Sandy Creek
Contact & access
- Rend Lake Project Office · Benton, IL 62812
- 618-724-2493
Source and verification
Last verified: 10/5/2026
See the Sources tab for provenance detail.

