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Cypress Creek
National Wildlife Refuge		 bullfrog in water with duck weed
0137 Rustic Campus Drive
Ullin, IL   62992
E-mail: cypresscreek@fws.gov
Phone Number: 618-634-2231
Visit the Refuge's Web Site:
http://www.fws.gov/refuge/cypress_creek/		 The refuge protects 15,000 acres of wetlands and bottomland forests, which are home to wildlife such as this bullfrog.
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  Recreation and Education Opportunities

Environmental Education
A variety of educational programs and resources, including teacher workshops and school field trips are offered at the Cache River Wetlands Center. The Center, owned by the Illinois DNR is supported by the refuge and provides activities that focus on wetland resources and first-hand experiences that link participants to the Cache River Wetlands.

Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the Cache River and numerous ponds lcoated throughout the refuge. Anglers have opportunities to catch largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish in refuge waters. Information and specific regulations are available at the refuge office.

Hunting
Hunting is permitted throughout the refuge except for the 1,000 acre Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve. Abundant white-tailed deer, turkey, waterfowl and squirrel populations offer excellent hunting opportunities. Information and specific regulations are available at the refuge office.

Interpretation
In partnership with the Illinois DNR, the refuge offers a Calendar of Events that includes a variety of programs and special events focusing on resource issues and the natural and cultural history of the area.

Wildlife Observation
The refuge and adjacent lands owned by the State and The Nature Conservancy provide over 20 miles of hiking trails through the Cache River Wetlands. The 1.5-mile Hickory Bottoms Trail is located off of Mount Olive Road in the north central portion of the refuge. The site highlights a 200-acre tract of contiguous forest and has received national recognition for its songbird populations. The Limekiln Springs Trail, off Cache Chapel Road, offers 2.5 miles of trail along limestone outcrops, floodplain forest, and coldwater springs. The Bellrose Waterfowl Reserve Viewing Platform, off Cache Chapel Road provides year-round viewing of migratory birds and resident wildlife. Contact the refuge office for other opportunities.

Hours
Refuge Headquarters - Open 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday - Friday. Outdoor Facilities - Open daily, dawn to dusk (year-round).

Entrance Fees
There is no entrance fee.

 		 
 
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