Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge

Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge

Emiquon refuge was established in 1993 by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to restore and protect wetland habitats at the confluence of the Illinois and Spoon Rivers. The first tract of the refuge was purchased on December 29, 1993. The refuge has since grown to 2,114 acres. In total, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has authorization to purchase 11,122 acres within the Emiquon Project area.

The Illinois River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge Complex stretches along 124 miles of the Illinois River in west central Illinois, and consists of three refuges: Emiquon, Chautauqua, and Meredosia, totaling 12,163 acres of backwater lakes, bottomland forests, floodplain wetlands, and upland habitats. Whether bird watching, fishing, hunting or taking pictures, there are many ways to enjoy refuge lands:

• All land and water areas on the refuge are open daily from sunrise to sunset.
• Take a scenic walk along the Bellrose Trail. This trail is named for the late waterfowl biologist Frank C. Bellrose.
• Pets are welcome, but must be leashed except when participating in legal hunting activities.
• The possession and consumption of alcohol is prohibited on the refuge.
• Off road vehicle use/ATV use, fires/fire works, and camping are prohibited on the refuge.
• Watch waterfowl and other birds from refuge trails, levees, and other access points. Peak waterfowl migrations occur in early-March and mid-November.
• Pick mushrooms and berries; collect nuts.
• Sport fishing is permitted on any refuge waters. Remember that the use of motorized boats are permitted at no wake speeds only.
• Hunting is open on specified areas north of the Spoon River. See refuge regulation sheet for detailed hunting information.

Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge
Address: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, 19031 East CR 2110 North , Havana, IL, 62644
Phone: (309) 535-2290

For more information, please visit;

Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge Experience Emiquon