Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is a large protected area in southern Illinois spanning about 44,000 acres. It contains oak-hickory forests, bottomland hardwoods, croplands, prairie grasslands, wetlands, and three major lakes distributed across the landscape.

The refuge was established in 1947 on land that formerly served military purposes during World War II, when munitions were produced there. Concrete storage bunkers from that era remain visible across the property today.

The refuge serves as a vital stopover along the Mississippi Flyway, welcoming hundreds of thousands of Canada geese during their winter migration. Visitors can observe these birds resting and feeding in the lakes and wetlands throughout the season.

The refuge can be reached via State Route 148, situated about 5 miles west of Marion and 5 miles south of Herrin. Access varies across the property, with the eastern section restricted for wildlife protection while the western area welcomes public recreation.

The refuge contains roughly 20,000 acres of fully protected wilderness in its eastern section that remains closed to the public. This separation allows wildlife to breed and winter without human disturbance, creating a true sanctuary within the larger protected area.

Location: Illinois

Inception: 1947

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/crab_orchard

GPS coordinates: 37.70000,-89.05920

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:00