🏆 Official Guide: Delabar State Park — An 89-acre riverside park on the Mississippi River, 1.5 miles north of Oquawka, Illinois — featuring camping (tent + trailer with electric hookups), a boat ramp + docks with direct Mississippi River access, fishing (catfish, bass, bluegill, crappie), 2 miles of hiking trails, 50+ bird species, three picnic areas with shelter, and a children’s playground.
Delabar State Park is a gem along the Great River Road — a compact but well-equipped riverside park offering direct access to the mighty Mississippi. The park is a favorite among anglers launching boats for river fishing, birders tracking the Mississippi Flyway migrations, and campers wanting a quiet riverside setting in the rolling hills of western Illinois.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | 1.5 mi N of Oquawka, IL — Mississippi River |
| Size | 89 acres — riverside woodland |
| River | Direct Mississippi River access |
| Boat Ramp | Paved — 2 boat docks (south end) |
| Birding | 50+ species — Mississippi Flyway |
| Pets | Leashed at all times |
Camping
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Sites | Tent + trailer — many with electric hookups |
| Water | Drinking water available |
| Facilities | Sanitary dump station, jet pump for water tanks |
| Permit | Obtain from park staff before setup |
| Groups | 25+ people need advance permission |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Fishing | Channel catfish, bass, bluegill, crappie — river fishing |
| Boating | Boat ramp + 2 docks — motors of any size |
| Hiking | ~2 mi marked woodland trails |
| Bird Watching | 50+ species — waterfowl, songbirds, raptors |
| Camping | Tent + trailer — electric hookups |
| Picnicking | 3 areas — north, center, south + shelter |
| Playground | Children’s play area — center picnic area |
| Wildlife Viewing | Deer, squirrels, rabbits, raccoons |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are motorboats allowed?
Yes — boats with motors of any size are permitted. The park has a paved boat ramp and two boat docks at the south end providing direct Mississippi River access.
Do I need a camping permit?
Yes — campers must obtain a permit from park staff before setting up. Groups of 25 or more require advance permission from the site superintendent.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Rockwood State Park is within about an hour’s drive, and Nauvoo State Park is within about an hour’s drive.
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Illinois state parks online at camp.exploremoreil.com.
Park Location
Plan your gear for Delabar State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
