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Location: Crab Orchard Lake is a 6965-acre impoundment located in the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge between Marion and Carbondale in Williamson County Illinois. Description: The Crab Orchard Lake fishery is cooperatively managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to spot a variety of wildlife. Visitors are likely to see bald eagles, including the six pairs that nest on the refuge. Watch for flocks of wild turkeys, white-tailed deer and a wide variety of songbirds including eastern bluebirds, indigo buntings, white-eyed vireos and summer tanagers.
Crab Orchard Lake is a 6,965-acre (28.2 km²) reservoir in Williamson County, Illinois. It is the centerpiece of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. It is fed by Devils Kitchen Lake and Little Grassy Lake, which are also within the National Wildlife Refuge.
Staying in the Crab Orchard Campground gives you a front row seat to view numerous species of waterfowl and shorebirds, and various other types of wildlife, also giving you the serene view of sunrises & sunsets on the lake.
Operating on the northern side of the lake, Crab Orchard Lake Campground is located within the National Wildlife Refuge. The season opens on April 1st and runs through October 31st. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days.
Whether you're a camper who likes to rough it or one who prefers more convenience, camping at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is fun for all. The refuge offers four campgrounds. Little Grassy Lake and Blue Heron Campgrounds are managed through concession contracts.
On the north side of the refuge Crab Orchard Lake is an outdoor enthusiasts dream come true. This 7,000 acre lake offers two campgrounds, marinas, and several boat launching ramps.
