Banner Marsh Fish And Wildlife Area
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Banner Marsh Fish and Wildlife Area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Illinois.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
It is located in the central part of the state, near the city of Peoria, and covers over 4,000 acres of land. The area is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, including several rare and endangered species.
One of the main reasons to visit Banner Marsh is for its excellent fishing opportunities. The area is known for its large populations of bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish, and there are several boat launches and fishing piers available for visitors to use. Additionally, the marsh is a popular spot for waterfowl hunting during the fall/winter season.
Visitors to Banner Marsh can also enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing along the many trails and observation areas throughout the area. There is also a visitor center that offers educational exhibits and information about the history and ecology of the marsh.
Interesting facts about Banner Marsh include its history as a former levee district that was converted into a wildlife sanctuary in the 1980s. Additionally, the marsh is home to several rare species of plants and animals, including the eastern massasauga rattlesnake and the northern diamondback terrapin.
The best time of year to visit Banner Marsh depends on the activities you are interested in. Fishing is best during the spring and fall seasons, while hunting is only allowed during specific times of the year. Wildlife viewing and hiking can be enjoyed year-round, although summer can be hot and humid.
Overall, Banner Marsh Fish and Wildlife Area is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of Illinois. Whether you are a fishing enthusiast, a bird watcher, or just enjoy spending time outdoors, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this unique and beautiful location.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Spring Lake State Conservation Area
Rice Lake State Conservation Area
Back Country 12
Back Country 10
Back Country 11
Sand Ridge State Forest - Forest City
Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area
Rice lake State Fish & Wildlife Area
Nature Preserve Henry Allan Gleason
Sand Ridge State Forest
Powerton Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area