🌤 Weather at Donnelley DePue (Illinois) by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28–74 °F | 60–86 °F | 31–79 °F | 15–38 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Hennepin Wtr Trmt Plt, 4 mi away, elevation 460 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
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
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Donnelley DePue (Illinois) (a short drive away) and Mautino State Fish and Wildlife Area (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Donnelley DePue (Illinois)
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in Illinois state parks and on trails as long as they are leashed at all times.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash required at all times; state code caps leash length at 10 feet
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited in areas posted 'NO PETS', reserved for beach areas, concession areas and crowded campground/picnic areas (e.g. no dogs on the beach at Illinois Beach State Park)
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed in campground cabins
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Leash rule exceptions for hunting dogs, field trials and dog training areas; pets must not be left unattended
Are dogs allowed at Donnelley DePue (Illinois)?
Pets are allowed in Illinois state parks and on trails as long as they are leashed at all times. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dnr.illinois.gov. More: Illinois state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Donnelley DePue (Illinois)
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
