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 b…
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.
Photos
Cabin — USACEDale Miller Youth Group Area beach — USACEDale Miller Youth Group Area Map — USACEDale Miller Youth Group Area — USACEAerial view of the Dale Miller Youth Group Area — USACEEnclosed Shelter with Fireplace — USACEPlayground — USACE
How to Get There
From I-57 take take exit 71 and turn west onto Route 14. After 3 miles turn right on Rend City Road, then right again on Main Dam Road. Continue 3 miles to the camp entrance on the left.
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
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Dry bags for electronics
Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to DALE MILLER YOUTH
Heading to DALE MILLER YOUTH? A few things to know before you go:
Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for DALE MILLER YOUTH?
No central reservation system listed for DALE MILLER YOUTH. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233475) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How many campsites are at DALE MILLER YOUTH?
DALE MILLER YOUTH has 1 campsites. Site amenities (hookups, vehicle limits, ADA access) vary — see the individual campsite pages for details.
How do I get to DALE MILLER YOUTH?
From I-57 take take exit 71 and turn west onto Route 14. After 3 miles turn right on Rend City Road, then right again on Main Dam Road. Continue 3 miles to the camp entrance on the left.
