Summary
This 1,180-acre area, situated in Jasper County, provides a diverse natural habitat for various wildlife species. Here are some key points about Sam Parr State Fish and Wildlife Area, verified through multiple independent sources.
Reasons to Visit:
1. Fishing: This area is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. The 160-acre Sam Parr Lake is well-stocked with popular fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish. Anglers can enjoy a relaxing day by the lake, casting their lines and reeling in some impressive catches.
2. Hunting: Sam Parr State Fish and Wildlife Area is a prime destination for hunting enthusiasts. The area offers hunting opportunities for white-tailed deer, turkey, squirrel, rabbit, and waterfowl during their respective seasons. The diverse landscape, including open fields, wooded areas, and wetlands, provides a variety of habitats for game species.
3. Wildlife Viewing: Nature lovers will appreciate the abundant wildlife found at Sam Parr. The area is home to numerous bird species, including bald eagles, geese, ducks, herons, and shorebirds. Additionally, visitors may spot deer, foxes, raccoons, and other mammals while exploring the park's trails and observation points.
Points of Interest:
1. Sam Parr Lake: The main attraction at the wildlife area, Sam Parr Lake offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and canoeing. A boat ramp is available for easy access to the lake.
2. Picnic Areas: Several picnic areas with tables and grills are scattered throughout the park, providing a great spot for families and groups to enjoy a meal amid the beautiful surroundings.
3. Trails: Hiking enthusiasts can explore the 1.5 miles of trails available at Sam Parr State Fish and Wildlife Area. These trails wind through diverse habitats, allowing visitors to experience the park's natural beauty up close.
Interesting Facts:
1. The wildlife area was named after Samuel Parr, a local resident who dedicated a significant amount of land for the establishment of the park.
2. Sam Parr Lake was constructed in the 1960s and has since become a popular recreational spot for fishing and boating in the area.
3. The park is managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, which focuses on conserving the area's natural resources and providing outdoor recreational opportunities for the public.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Sam Parr State Fish and Wildlife Area depends on the activities one wishes to pursue. Spring and fall are popular for hunting, with seasons open for various game species. Fishing is excellent year-round, with spring and fall being particularly favorable for catching trophy-sized fish. Birdwatching is most rewarding during the spring and fall migration seasons when a diverse array of bird species pass through the area.
Sources:
- Illinois Department of Natural Resources: https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/parks/pages/samparr.aspx
- AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/illinois/sam-parr-state-fish-and-wildlife-area
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
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Sam Parr State Park
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Oblong Park
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Crawford County Fairgrounds
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