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2008 Federal Duck Stamp Contest Phone: 618-634-2231 E-mail: CypressCreek@fws.gov |
Recreation Opportunities
The Refuge, Cache River State Natural Area, and The Nature Conservancy lands are accessible year round. Acceptable outdoor uses include hunting, fishing, nature photography, wildlife observation, and boating (10hp limit). Areas within the Cache River Wetlands are also available for educational use.
Hunting and fishing opportunities are abundant within the Refuge. The area includes a diversity of habitats from floodplain and upland forests, to deepwater swamps and shallow wetlands, to agriculture and early successional fields. These areas support waterfowl, deer, turkey, squirrels, rabbits, and other game species. In addition to the Cache River and associated wetlands and backwater sloughs also offer opportunities to catch crappie, bass, bluegill and other fish throughout the year.
Refuge hunting and fishing seasons generally follow state seasons and regulations. It is important to note a Refuge permit is required and needs to be signed and on the person while hunting on Refuge property. This permit is free and located on the Refuge Hunting and Fishing brochure; additional information and refuge specific regulations are also described in this publication. Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge Hunting and Fishing brochures are available at the Refuge office, outdoor kiosks, or on the following link: Hunting and Fishing Brochure Illinois Department of Natural Resources web-site for specific application and/or season dates. Hunting licenses and stamps can be purchased on this site as well.
Over 20 miles of hiking trails offer the best way to experience the rich diversity of the Cache River Wetlands. Over 230 species of birds, river otters, bobcats, green tree frogs, water snakes and some of the largest swamp trees east of the Mississippi River can be viewed within the area. Contact the refuge or Cache River State Natural Area for best observation sites and viewing times during the year.
