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Crab Orchard Wildlife Refuge

Marion, IL

National Parks
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Where are we going?

Address: 8588 Route 148, Marion, IL 62959 How do we get there? Number: 618-997-3344
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About this activity

With 56 percent of the Crab Orchard Wildlife Refuge covered in stunning forest, 10 percent is beautiful cropland, and 20 percent covered by open water, and an amazing variety of wildlife calling it home, if you are looking to surround yourselves with some stunning natural beauty, look no further!

The Crab Orchard Wildlife Refuge has a number of primary purposes, with two of these being wildlife conservation, and offering a safe and enjoyable recreational experience for all who visit - and both of those they do very well!

The wildlife found here is just stunning. If you're lucky you might see the elusive bobcat as you drive the tour route early in the morning. If you see an iconic bald eagle, you'll know that's a testament to the success of the Endangered Species Act as this beautiful creature is no longer on the list!

Wild Turkeys were hunted to near extinction by the early 20th century, but now conservation efforts have returned this beautiful bird to great numbers, and these are one of the most frequent animals to be seen in the area.

Within the stunning forest, you might find a deer, or squirrels, raccoons, and even owls, and in the open waters there are sport fish, waterfowl an other water birds.

Let's not forget about the croplands, with Canada geese and northern bobwhite!

With wildlife all year round at the Crab Orchard Wildlife Refuge, a great place to start is the Visitor Center, where you can see exhibits of all the local wildlife, and pick up maps to the area.

There are great spots for hiking with the Rocky Bluff Trail the most popular hike, and plenty of fishing opportunities for crappie!

A day out in stunning Illinois nature!

Activity location

Directions

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is located in the southern portion of Illinois, with lands in Williamson, Jackson, and Union counties. The Refuge visitor center is located five miles west of Marion, Illinois, and five miles south of Herrin, Illinois, on State Route 148.

To get to the Refuge visitor center from I-57, take exit 54 B onto IL-13W toward Carbondale for 3.6 miles until you reach the IL-148 intersection. At this intersection, turn left onto IL-148 and travel South 1.6 miles until you reach the Refuge visitor center. To get to the Refuge visitor center from I-24, merge onto I-57 N via exit 44B for 1.3 miles until you reach exit 45, IL-148. Take IL-148 North for 7.7 miles until you reach the Refuge.

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How much does it cost?

Hilton

Adults

$2 per vehicle for 1 day pass

Hilton

Children

Included in the vehicle fee

Hilton

Last Updates

2023

Crab Orchard Wildlife Refuge FAQ’s

The refuge is a safe haven to protect wildlife from being threatened or endangered!

Be prepared when you go, it's always great to have a packed lunch and water with you!

Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the lakes or off down a trail. Be sure to dress appropriately for the expected weather conditions. Also be prepared for insects in the spring and summer, especially ticks. Wearing protective clothing or repellants is recommended.

Speak to staff at the visitor center about the accessibility of the exhibits and trails

There are some great activities for kids, including Saturday courses teaching outdoor skills!

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