Snakeden Hollow State Fish and Wildlife Area

Snakeden Hollow State Fish and Wildlife Area is a wildlife management area in Knox County spanning thousands of acres with a mix of water bodies and open landscapes. The property contains numerous lakes and small impoundments alongside extensive grasslands interspersed with shrubby areas and scattered woodland patches.

The area operated as a surface coal mining site from 1962 to 1970 before the State of Illinois purchased it from Midland Coal Company in 1987. Following the acquisition, the mined land was reclaimed and converted into a fish and wildlife management area.

Local anglers regularly visit to catch bass, trout, and other fish species, making this a familiar fishing destination for recreational users. This activity shapes how visitors engage with and use the water bodies throughout the area.

The location is accessible via Route 167 east from Victoria and offers multiple parking areas around the property's perimeter. Visitors should come prepared for uneven ground and bring water-resistant footwear, as many areas feature wet or marshy conditions.

The area serves as an important nesting ground for giant Canada geese that regularly breed in the extensive grasslands. These bird colonies are a defining feature of the location and shape the natural activity during breeding season.

Location: Knox County

Inception: 1987

GPS coordinates: 41.01170,-90.08060

Latest update: December 12, 2025 16:42