Rend Lake is a 19,000-acre water impoundment overseen by the U.S Army Corps of Engineers. It was built for about $60 million and reached its full pool in 1973. Along with boating, fishing, camping and hunting opportunities, it supplies water to surrounding communities. But it may be best known in southern Illinois for its 27-hole golf course operated by the Rend Lake Conservancy District. The course and other resorts on the lake are off Interstate 57. Travelers can pinpoint the area when they see the water tower painted to look like a golf ball on a tee. Nearby towns include Benton, Mount Vernon, Whittington and Sesser.
Seasons Lodge and Condominiums at Rend Lake Golf Course
This property, part of the Rend Lake Recreation Complex overseen by the Rend Lake Conservancy District, features condominium and lodge rentals along the golf course on the lake. There are hotel-style accommodations, as well as two-bedroom units in the Manor House. Some units have fireplaces. Golf packages are available, as are a swimming pool, nearby boat rentals and beaches. Because of the mild weather in southern Illinois, the course is often playable in all 12 months of the year.
Rend Lake Resort
Although it is within a short drive of the golf course, this resort is more known for its proximity to the water. It features a variety of lodging options, including a "boatel," which is a series of units located on the lake, with private decks and, in some cases, two levels. A number of cabins are within a short distance of the complex's outdoor swimming pool. The boatel includes a variety of room styles, with double and king-size bed options, rooms with second-floor lofts, as well as special spa suites. A marina for docking or renting a boat is on the premises.
Hiking and Biking
Visitors to the lake also have access to a relatively flat, paved hiking and biking trail on the east side of the lake. The northern route runs nearly 6 miles between Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park Office and nearby Rend Lake College. The southern portion is 3.8 miles and connects the Southern Illinois Artisan Shop & Visitor Center with the North Marcum Swim Beach. Bike rentals are available at Rend Lake College and at the Rend Lake Resort.
Significant Dates
Some of the federally managed areas at Rend Lake close for the season in the early fall. Beaches such as the South Sandusky unit and shelters in the North Marcum Day Use area close in mid-September. Parts of the federally operated campgrounds also close for the season in September.
Golf Considerations
The Rend Lake Golf Course offers three different nine-hole course options, each of which has four sets of tees, allowing players with varying levels of ability to enjoy the facility. You'll also find a lighted driving range, a pro shop and golf professionals who offer individual or group lessons.
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