Hunting
Hunters in southern Illinois enjoy a rich tradition of hunting on public lands. Each year thousands of hunters from across the nation are attracted to Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge to hunt an exceptionally diverse list of species, including trophy bucks, turkeys, small game and waterfowl. In addition to active habitat management, farmers share-crop part of the refuge land, leaving a percentage of the crop in the field for wildlife, which provides excellent hunting opportunities. The refuge hosts special-permitted deer and turkey hunts, which include opportunities for hunters with disabilities and youth. These hunts are well known for their high success rates. The refuge has a rich history in waterfowl hunting and is best known for its abundant waterfowl hunting opportunities along the shorelines of Crab Orchard Lake. The refuge abounds with a variety of game species, see below for specific hunting regulations.
*Hunting season dates are updated for the next year in August.
Special Area Hunts
A Special Hunt Area brochure is required to be reviewed and signed by each hunter before their hunt. This brochure includes safety information about Munitions and Explosives of Concern (MEC). Before Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge was established, the restricted area was home to the Illinois Ordnance Plant which employed nearly 10,000 workers to support the war efforts during WWII. Today, the restricted area is home to numerous flora and fauna species. To stay safe during your hunt, follow the "3 Rs" of MEC Safety: Recognize, Retreat and Report.
Only the species listed here are allowed to be hunted in the Special Hunt Area during specific times. Information about the open hunt area will be below this section.
Archery Deer
October 1 - November 14, 2026
December 7 - January 17, 2027
Hunters are required to check in at the self-check stations prior to hunting within the Special Hunt Area. Scouting is allowed on September 30, 2026.
Youth Firearm Deer and ADA Accessible Firearm Deer Hunting
November 20-22, 2026
Permits are administered through Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Hunters are required to check in with Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge for their area assignments. An email will be sent to all hunters who receive a permit through IDNR with further instructions.
Firearm Deer
Season 1: November 20-22, 2026
Season 2: December 3-6, 2026
Permits are administered through IDNR. Hunters are required to check in with Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. An email will be sent to all hunters who receive a permit through IDNR with further instructions.
Muzzleloader Deer
December 11-13, 2026
Williamson County Muzzleloader permits are required.
Spring Turkey Firearm
April 7-11, 2027 (Season 1)
April 12-17, 2027 (Season 2)
April 18-23, 2027 (Season 3)
April 24-30, 2027 (Season 4)
May 1-May 8, 2027 (Season 5)
Permits are administered through the IDNR lottery system. Hunters drawn for the restricted area hunt will receive a letter by mail with a map and the check-in information. Approved non-toxic shot is required for turkey hunting.
There is no fall turkey season in the restricted area.
Youth Waterfowl
TBD
This is a controlled hunt in the Hampton Unit. Hunters are required to check in prior to hunting.
Teal, Duck, and Geese
December 23, 2026 - January 24, 2027
This hunt is in the Hampton Unit only Wednesday through Sunday beginning December 24, 2025. Motorized boats are prohibited.
Open Area Hunts
An open area hunt brochure is required to be reviewed and signed by each hunter before their hunt. Species listed below are allowed during the state designated season with the proper state required hunting permits.
Deer
- Archery - Season is closed during 1st and 2nd Firearm deer season.
- Youth Deer Firearm
- Seasons 1 and 2 Firearm
- Muzzleloader Deer
Turkey
- Archery
- Spring and Fall Shotgun - approved non-toxic shot is required for shot shells.
- Youth - approved non-toxic shot is required for shot shells.
Teal, Duck, Geese and Youth Waterfowl
Waterfowl hunting blinds must be a minimum of 200 yards (180 meter) apart. Crab Orchard Lake from North Wolf Creek Road to the west is open for waterfowl hunting during the state seasons. The water from North Wolf Creek Road to the east is closed for waterfowl hunting season.
Dove, Quail, Crow
Approved non-toxic shot required for shot shells.
Rabbits, Squirrel, Bobcat, Coyote
Approved non-toxic shot required for shot shells. We prohibit the use of rifles or handguns with ammunition larger then .22 caliber rimfire, except the use of black powder firearms up to and including .40 caliber.
