Middle Fork State Fish & Wildlife Area, Illinois

Like the name suggests, the 2,700 acres of grass, forest and cropland in Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area make a mighty fine home for many species, in or out of the water. But while we’re on the subject, we should mention that river is something fierce. It’s been touted as one of the very best in the entire state, earning a National Wild and Scenic River designation.

Anglers can easily access the river via several footpaths and have the opportunity to catch many kinds of fish including smallmouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, crappie, catfish, walleye and bullhead. Equestrians (aided by the horse camp), cross-country skiers and snowmobilers routinely traverse 35 miles of scenic trails in the area. If you consider yourself a shutterbug, you may want to stop by Collison Creek Marsh, Indian Grass Prairie, Skunk Cabbage Seep and Orchid Hill to snap a few photos.