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A worldwide technology outage is causing disruption to some State of Illinois online systems.  We are aware of this issue and are diligently working on restoration.

Attention hunters: Visit our FAQ page for information about the use of centerfire, single-shot rifles for deer hunting in Illinois. 

Governor JB Pritzker Illinois.gov Contact IDNR DNR A to Z

Boating

The site provides a free launching ramp. There is no horsepower limit.

Camping

Tent and trailer spaces with electricity and water are available. Camping permits must be obtained from the site.

Canoe camping is permitted on the islands except during waterfowl hunting season.

Reservations are accepted through the ExploreMoreIL™ website.

Fishing

All fishing is done on the Illinois River and its backwaters. Bluegill, crappie, bullhead and channel catfish are the most frequently caught fish. More experienced anglers can catch largemouth bass. A man made half-mile-long channel near the campground is popular for fishing.

Picnicking

A day-use area with tables, shelters and stoves (no drinking water) is located in the Spring Beach Unit, 2 miles south of Sparland on Route 29. A smaller picnic area is found along Route 26, 5 miles south of Lacon, near the campground. Shelter reservations are accepted through the ExploreMoreIL™ website.

Hunting

Upland and forest game hunting opportunities exist in designated wildlife management areas. Shotgun and bow and arrow hunting are permitted. There is no hunting in recreation areas. Waterfowl hunting is available by permit and is restricted to designated blind sites. See Site Hunting Information

Trails

A marked, 3.5-mile combination hiking, cross-country ski and hunter access trail is available for public use within the Marshall Unit. There are no hiking trails at the Spring Branch Unit. Contact the site for a trail brochure.

Winter Sports

Cross-country skiing, backpacking and ice fishing are permitted on the frozen backwaters after the conclusion of waterfowl hunting season. The 3.5-mile trail takes skiers through wooded bluffs.