🌤 Weather at Donnelley/DePue State Fish and Wildlife Areas 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 Water Treatment Plant, 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.
3,015-Acre State Fish & Wildlife Complex Near DePue — Migratory Waterfowl Habitat, Waterfowl Hunting & Backwater Lake Fishing
The Donnelley/DePue State Fish and Wildlife Areas are a 3,015-acre state-managed wildlife complex in Putnam and Bureau Counties, Illinois, near the town of DePue. The complex features managed migratory waterfowl habitat, seasonal waterfowl hunting, backwater lake and wetland fishing, and limited seasonal public access focused on conservation.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources manages the complex primarily for migratory waterfowl. Much of the 3,015 acres of wetland habitat is managed for waterfowl feeding, nesting, resting, hunting and viewing. According to IDNR, waterfowl expert Frank C. Bellrose designated this Great Bend as the entry point to the lower Illinois River valley, an important North American waterfowl migration corridor. A $1 million State Duck Stamp Project increased the complex’s ability to provide sanctuary and food.
The Donnelley Wildlife Area, 2 miles north of Hennepin on Putnam County Highway 1, came under state management in 1982. It is open to the public during waterfowl season and to school and study groups by appointment. The state acquired the DePue property in 1970, and added land has brought the backwater lakes and wetlands there to 2,350 acres. The village of DePue offers access to Lake DePue, and Lake DePue and Spring Lake can be reached from the Illinois River, depending on river levels.
Things to Do
Waterfowl Hunting
- Managed waterfowl hunting area
- Illinois hunting license and stamps required
- Seasonal — check IDNR regulations
- Donnelley: daily draw for 15 blinds one hour before shooting hours; $10 usage stamp per person covers boat, blind and equipment; no outboard motors
- Donnelley offers two youth hunts a year and the first accessible blind in Illinois
- Lake DePue: blind sites by yearly draw, with a few daily draws; hunters supply their own boats and decoys
Fishing
- Lake DePue and Spring Lake
- Backwater lake and wetland fishing
- Walleye, sauger, white bass, smallmouth and largemouth bass, channel catfish, drum, crappie, bullhead and carp
- Illinois fishing license required
Birding & Wildlife Observation
- Important North American waterfowl migration corridor
- Wetlands managed in part for waterfowl viewing
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 |
| Birding | Waterfowl migration corridor |
| Public Access | Limited/seasonal — call ahead (815-447-2353) |
| Facilities | Limited — bring own supplies |
| Camping | Not available |
| Coordinates | 41.3240, -89.3080 |
Best Time to Visit
The Donnelley Wildlife Area is open to the public during waterfowl season, and school and study groups can visit by appointment. IDNR warns that natural conditions can close roads and other facilities, so call the park office before you make the trip.
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.
- Pets and groups: IDNR says pets must be kept on leashes at all times. Groups of 25 or more must register in advance with the site office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Donnelley/DePue State Fish and Wildlife Areas open to the public?
The Donnelley/DePue State Fish and Wildlife Areas near DePue, Illinois, have 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.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbor is Matthiessen State Park (a short drive away).
Park Map
Plan your gear for Donnelley/DePue State Fish and Wildlife Areas
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
Top Tours & Activities Near Chicago
from $508
from $35
from $35