🏆🏆🏆🏆 Illinois River Wetlands — 4,000-acre wetland complex in the Illinois River valley — critical waterfowl habitat in the heart of the Mississippi Flyway
Donnelley/DePue Wildlife Area protects 4,000 acres of wetlands, marshes, and bottomland forest in the Illinois River valley — one of the most important waterfowl management areas in the state. The site was named for R.R. Donnelley & Sons (the famous printing company) who donated the land for conservation. The Illinois River valley between Ottawa and Peoria was once called “Duck Capital of the World” — attracting millions of mallards, pintails, and teal every fall.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Bureau County, IL |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Size | 4,000 acres! |
| Legacy | “Duck Capital of the World”! |
About Donnelley DePue
Donnelley DePue State Fish and Wildlife Area in Bureau County protects Illinois River floodplain and backwater lakes. The area is part of the Illinois River valley — once one of the richest freshwater ecosystems in North America. The backwater lakes are critical for migratory waterfowl on the Mississippi Flyway.
Donnelley DePue State Fish and Wildlife Area in Bureau County provides hunting and fishing in the Illinois River valley — one of the most significant river ecosystems in the Midwest. The area encompasses floodplain forest, wetlands, and backwater lakes along the Illinois River. The valley supports extensive waterfowl populations during migration.
Things to Do
Waterfowl hunting (world-class goose and duck hunting in the Illinois River valley), fishing for catfish, bass, and crappie in the backwater lakes, and birdwatching during migrations.
Waterfowl and upland game hunting (seasonal), fishing in backwater lakes, birdwatching during spring and fall migration, and wildlife observation in the Illinois River floodplain.
Insider Tips
Illinois River wetlands: Donnelley DePue protects critical wetland habitat along the Illinois River — one of the most important waterfowl corridors in North America. Pro tip: The area floods seasonally, creating ideal habitat for migrating ducks and geese. Birding hotspot: Spring and fall migration bring exceptional bird diversity to the Illinois River valley.
Best Time to Visit
Fall: Waterfowl migration peaks in October-November. Spring: Shorebird migration. Summer: Fishing. Winter: Bald eagle viewing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Illinois River important for waterfowl?
The Illinois River corridor is one of the most important waterfowl migration routes in North America. Millions of ducks and geese use the river’s wetlands as staging areas during spring and fall migration. The combination of shallow backwater lakes, bottomland forests, and managed wetlands creates ideal habitat.
More parks nearby: Donnelley/Depue State Park is a short drive away, while Mautino State Fish and Wildlife Area lies a short drive away.
