Visit to Illinois
UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE AND FISH REFUGE
This 200,000-acre National Wildlife and Fish Refuge protects 284 miles of the Mississippi River in four states, with 43,000 acres in Illinois. Offering a corridor of two to five miles wide, the refuge includes wetlands, islands, and river shoreline with some high bluffs and beaches.
The area is not in a wilderness condition, and highways often run close by the river, which has many dams and locks. The refuge nevertheless helps preserve a diverse wildlife, including whitetailed deer, coyote, fox, and bald eagle.
Activities: Canoeing and other boating are possible on the river, as is fishing. Hunting is permitted in season. There are no maintained foot trails.
Camping Regulations: Except where posted otherwise, camping is allowed on the islands and along the shore for up to 14 days. Campfires are permitted.
For Further Information: Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, P.O. Box 415, La Crosse, WI 54601.
In addition, 2,000-acre Castle Rock State Park in northwest Illinois has one designated area along the Rock River for canoe-campers only. For more information contact Castle Rock State Park, 1365 West Castle Road, Oregon, IL 61061; (815)732-7329.
