Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge

The refuge is open 5:00am to 10:00pm. Portions of Lake Ilo are open for fishing from the shoreline or boats. Boat fishing is open May 1 - September 30. Motors are restricted to idle speed only. Shoreline fishing is open year-round. Popular game fish are northern pike, yellow perch, carp, and...

Portions of Lake Ilo are open to ice fishing when ice covers the water. Three ice access points are available for vehicles to access the ice. Please consult the Refuge map for locations. Fish houses may be used for ice fishing in accordance with State regulations. Beginning March 15, fish houses...

The North Shore Nature Trail is 1 mile in length and begins in Lake Ilo Park, winding along the north shore of Lake Ilo. Interpretive signs and benches are available for visitors along the way. Two interpretive and educational displays provide opportunities to learn about key features of...

Visitors can enjoy peaceful moments observing or photographing wildlife in the grasslands, wetlands, and along the nature trail in the Lake Ilo Park. Since the establishment of the Refuge in 1939, there have been 227 bird, 36 mammal, 6 reptile, 3 amphibian, and 11 fish species observed. Early...

Whether you wield a smartphone or a zoom lens, you’ll find photo-worthy subjects at Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuges.

From Bald eagles to Marsh Wrens birds abound on Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuges. Check out the wildlife species list for seasonal specific on the birds of the refuge.

An archeological display containing a reconstructed stone tipi ring and interpretive panels are located near the nature trailhead. The Lake Ilo Dam is a prominent and important feature of the Refuge. An overlook parking area is located on the hill at the north end of the structure. An...

Lake Ilo Park provides visitors with daytime facilities including tables, charcoal grills, litter receptacles, and a rest room.