Kaskaskia River

Baldwin Lake Brochure (part of Kaskaskia River SFWA)

The Kaskaskia River State Fish & Wildlife Area is one of the largest state-owned and managed sites in Illinois. Located 35 miles southeast of St. Louis, Missouri, the area comprises more than 20,000 acres and extends along the Kaskaskia River from Fayetteville to the Mississippi River in St. Clair, Monroe and Randolph counties.

The Illinois Department of Transportation owns the land along the river and leases most of the land to the Department of Natural Resources to manage for fish, wildlife and other recreational activities. A few areas are managed by the Kaskaskia River Port District for industrial use and are not available for public use.

Baldwin Lake, a 2,018-acre reservoir built by Illinois Power Company, is contained within Kaskaskia River SFWA. This lake serves as a source of cooling water a nearby electric generating station. Baldwin Lake is open to the public for fishing and is a major part of the area’s waterfowl refuge. More information about Baldwin Lake.

To reach the Site Headquarters from the south one would access State Hwy. 154 and go to the town of Baldwin. In Baldwin turn north on 5th Street and travel 4 miles, passing the Illinois Power generating facility. At the intersection of 5th Street and Risdon School Road, turn west (left) and travel one mile to the park entrance gate. Turn left at the gate and follow the black top road to the site office sign. The site office is 1/4 mile south of this sign.

To reach the Site Headquarters from the north one would access State Hwy. 13 and travel toward the village of New Athens. While on Hwy. 13 look for the "Baldwin Lake" Highway sign and turn south. Travel this blacktop road for 5 miles to the intersection of Risdon School Road and turn west (right). Travel one mile to the park entrance gate. Turn left at the gate and follow the black top road to the site office sign. The site office is 1/4 mile south of this sign.

• While groups of 25 or more are welcome and encouraged to use the park's facilities, they are required to register in advance with the site office to avoid crowding or scheduling conflicts.
• At least one responsible adult must accompany each group of 15 minors.
• Pets must be kept on leashes at all times.
• Actions by nature can result in closed roads and other facilities. Please call ahead to the park office before you make your trip. 

We hope you enjoy your stay. Remember, take only memories, leave only footprints.