Overview
Rend Lake is a reservoir in IL. Primary inflow is Big Muddy River. It is managed by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers — St. Louis District.
The basin is characterized by about 18,900 acres of surface area. Shoreline and bottom character vary from protected coves and flats to deeper water, supporting a mix of open-water and nearshore habitats.
Rend Lake supports recreational boating and fishing. Public access is through area ramps, parks, and shoreline facilities where provided by the operator. Fishing and boating regulations are set by the relevant state wildlife agency.
Pool elevations are managed against conservation or full-pool elevation near 405 feet NGVD29. Monitoring current levels matters for ramp usability, shoreline access, and understanding storage relative to the published operating range.
Current Conditions
- Drought conditionsAbnormally Dry
About This Lake
Learn how this lake is managed, what affects its water level, and where Lake Insights gets its data.
Rend Lake is a 18,900-acre reservoir on the Big Muddy River managed by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers — St. Louis District.





