Contact Information
6987 Headquarters Road, Marion, IL 62959
(800) 344-9453 | (618) 997-3344
fws.gov/refuge/crab-orchard | craborchard@fws.gov
facebook.com/USFWS | instagram.com/usfws
Daily 8am-4pm
US Fish & Wildlife Service
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is the oldest federal conservation agency, tracing its lineage back to 1871, and the only agency in the federal government whose primary responsibility is management of fish and wildlife for the American public. The Service helps ensure a healthy environment for people by providing opportunities for Americans to enjoy the outdoors and our shared natural heritage.
Objectives
Assist
Assist in the development and application of an environmental stewardship ethic for our society, based on ecological principles, scientific knowledge of fish and wildlife, and a sense of moral responsibility.
Guide
Guide the conservation, development, and management of the Nation's fish and wildlife resources.
Administer
Administer a national program to provide the public opportunities to understand, appreciate, and wisely use fish and wildlife resources.
Points of Interest
The Pigeon Creek Day Use Area – Located on Pigeon Creek Road about a half mile west of route 148. The area is home to Martha’s Theater, which is used for special events including the annual International Migratory Bird Day celebration which takes place each May. It is also the meeting place for many environmental education programs. The trailhead to the Harmony trail is also located here. There is also a small picnic area and rest rooms.
Wolf Creek Causeway – One of the most popular spots on the Refuge for fishing and wildlife observation. Fishing piers provide access for bank fishing for crappie and other species. There is also a boat launch and covered dock. Nearby Bogart Point offers additional fishing opportunities as well as a picnic area and restrooms.
Rocky Bluff Trail – One of the most popular trails, located off of Tacoma Lake Road, adjacent to the Devils Kitchen Lake. The 2.2-mile loop trail traverses moderate terrain including ridges, valleys and bluffs. It is spectacular in the springtime when wildflowers are abundant and water flows over an intermittent fall.
The Prairie Creek Recreation Area – Very popular with anglers. Located just south of State Highway 13 in Carbondale this area boasts excellent bank fishing and includes and accessible fishing pier. There are also a boat ramps on both the north and south sides of the highway. Many fishing tournaments stage here and hold their weigh-ins an on-site pavilion. Picnic tables are also available.
