Donnelley/Depue State Park
Illinois’ Premier Waterfowl Sanctuary — 3,015-Acre Fish & Wildlife Area, Migratory Bird Habitat, Waterfowl Hunting, Backwater Lake Fishing & Birding Near DePue
Donnelley/DePue State Fish and Wildlife Area is a 3,015-acre state-managed wildlife complex in Putnam and Bureau Counties, Illinois, near the town of DePue. The park features managed migratory waterfowl habitat, seasonal waterfowl hunting, backwater lake and wetland fishing, exceptional birding and wildlife photography, and limited seasonal public access focused on conservation.
Donnelley/DePue State Fish and Wildlife Area is one of Illinois’ most important migratory waterfowl management areas — a 3,015-acre complex of backwater lakes, wetlands, and managed habitat along the Illinois River corridor. The primary mission is waterfowl conservation — feeding, nesting, and migration support — which means public access is seasonal and often restricted. The Donnelley Wildlife Area portion is frequently closed to the public outside of waterfowl hunting season, though educational groups may arrange visits. The DePue portion offers boating and fishing access on backwater lakes (including Lake DePue and Spring Lake). The area is a premier birding destination during spring and fall migration, attracting significant numbers of ducks, geese, shorebirds, and raptors.
Things to Do
Waterfowl Hunting
- Managed waterfowl hunting area
- Illinois hunting license and stamps required
- Seasonal — check IDNR regulations
- Blind assignments may apply
Fishing
- Lake DePue and Spring Lake
- Backwater lake and wetland fishing
- Boat ramp access available
- Illinois fishing license required
Birding & Wildlife Observation
- Major migratory waterfowl corridor
- Ducks, geese, shorebirds, raptors
- Spring and fall migration peaks
- Photography opportunities from accessible areas
Park Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Acreage | 3,015+ acres |
| Type | State Fish & Wildlife Area — conservation focus |
| Counties | Putnam and Bureau Counties, IL |
| Primary Mission | Migratory waterfowl management |
| Hunting | Managed waterfowl — seasonal |
| Fishing | Lake DePue, Spring Lake — boat ramp |
| Birding | Premier migration corridor — spring/fall |
| Public Access | Limited/seasonal — call ahead (815-447-2353) |
| Facilities | Limited — bring own supplies |
| Camping | Not available |
| Coordinates | 41.3237° N, 89.3165° W |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | ⭐ BEST: Fall waterfowl migration; hunting season; massive flocks; birding; photography | Restricted access during hunting; call ahead; cold mornings |
| Spring (Mar–May) | Spring migration; shorebirds; warblers; greening wetlands; nesting | Flooding possible; muddy roads; call for access status |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Fishing; backwater bass; herons nesting; dragonflies | Hot; mosquitoes; limited access; algae on backwaters |
| Winter (Dec–Mar) | Late waterfowl; bald eagles; winter raptors; ice fishing potential | Cold; roads may close; very limited facilities; short days |
Visitor Tips
- Call before visiting: Public access is limited and seasonal — call the site office at (815) 447-2353 before planning a trip.
- Donnelley portion: The Donnelley Wildlife Area is often closed to the public outside of hunting season — educational groups may arrange visits.
- Road closures: Flooding and seasonal conditions can close roads and facilities — verify access status.
- Bring supplies: No food, water, or services available — bring everything you need.
- Hunting regs: Waterfowl hunting requires an Illinois hunting license, waterfowl stamps, and compliance with IDNR regulations.
- Birding: The area is a premier Illinois River corridor birding site — bring binoculars, a spotting scope, and patience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Donnelley/DePue State Park open to the public?
Donnelley/DePue State Fish and Wildlife Area near DePue, Illinois, has limited and seasonal public access. The 3,015-acre complex is primarily managed for migratory waterfowl conservation. The Donnelley Wildlife Area portion is often closed to the public outside of waterfowl hunting season. The DePue portion offers boating and fishing access on backwater lakes. Always call the site office at (815) 447-2353 before visiting to verify current access status. Flooding and seasonal conditions can close roads and facilities at any time.
Last updated: May 2026
Park Location
Top Tours & Activities Near Chicago
from $89
from $508
from $35