Boating

Boating on Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is a great way to get to your favorite fishing or hunting spot. 

Motorized Boats

To protect the lakes and other visitors, there is a "no wake" zone within 150 feet (45 meters) of any shoreline, swimming area, marina entrance, boat ramp and causeway tunnel. Other areas of “no wake" zone include the area east of Route 148 on Crab Orchard Lake and the area south of the Line 6 boat ramp on Devils Kitchen Lake. Devils Kitchen Lake has a 10 horsepower limit.

For information on boat and slip rentals on Crab Orchard Lake, visit the Refuge's official concessionaires, REEF LLC and PLD Landing.

Kayaking and Canoeing

Kayakers and canoers can find quiet spots to explore along the shorelines of Crab Orchard Lake and Devils Kitchen Lake year-round. Devils Kitchen Lake has a primitive kayak/canoe landing located on the south end of the lake. An accessible kayak and canoe launch is located within the Bluegill Bay Marina and Campground.

Looking to sail? Sailors can find opportunities to launch from PLD Landing at Playport Marina located off Spillway Road. 

Lake Information:

Crab Orchard Lake is open to boating west of Wolf Creek causeway year-round. East of Wolf Creek causeway is open to boating from March 1 – October 15. There is a “no wake” zone 150 feet from the shoreline. 

Devils Kitchen Lake is open to boating year-round. There is a 10 horsepower limit, making this a quiet and calm lake to explore. The tops of the trees left standing when the lake was established can be seen sticking above the water line and just below the water surface. Care is encouraged when navigating around the lake.  Swimming is prohibited due to the safety hazard presented by the trees. 

Due to the ongoing repair project for the Little Grassy Lake, the lake has been drawn down. The lakebed and creek are open to the public. Currently no established boat ramps reach the water.  

Fee Use Area

Please note,Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is a fee use area. Learn more about fees at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.