Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area
AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the mallard flyway and supports a wide variety of animals, plants and outdoor pursuits.With an initial land purchase in 1925, the three unit area has grown to include approximately 6,000 acres, of which half is land and half is water. The largest of the units is the Marshall Unit, consisting of 3,000 acres east of the Illinois River and adjacent to Route 26. The area headquarters is found here, along with a small campground, boat ramp, fishing channel, hunter check station and hiking trails. Terrain varies from ravine-cut bluffs to bottomland lakes, islands and sloughs. The Spring Beach Unit contains 1,642 acres (537 acres of water) on the west side of the Illinois River between Sparland and Chillicothe. The unit spans Marshall and Peoria counties. There is a 6-acre picnic area, fishing, and access to hunting and hiking trails adjacent to Route 29. The habitat ranges from upland forest to riverbottom to cropland. The Sparland Unit, the smallest of the three, consists of 1,280 acres, of which 1,110 acres are water. Lying between Route 29 and the Illinois River, Sparland is predominantly used as a waterfowl hunting area, although at times fishing is quite popular. The backwater is very shallow and boat access is difficult during low water. Natural Features On the east side of Route 26 and the west side of Route 29 are high bluffs containing heavy hardwood timber of oaks, hickories and walnuts interspersed with wildflowers and shrubs. Wildlife includes red, gray and flying squirrels, white-tailed deer, rabbits and other woodland species. Songbirds, owls and hawks are common, particularly during migrations. Bottomland forests and the backwater lakes comprise the majority of the area. Found here is a wide variety of fauna and flora. Cottonwood, silver maple and willow cover much of the low-lying land, including several large islands. River bullrush and other moist-soil plants thrive at the water’s edge. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink and beaver find this habitat to their liking and can sometimes be observed at dawn and dusk. A number of beaver dams dot the backwaters and these are good spots to watch wildlife. While not as attractive to wildlife as they once were due to heavy siltation, the backwater lakes still attract large flights of waterfowl during migration. Only the brightly colored wood duck, common to the area, remains during the summer to nest and raise its young. The tall and stately great blue heron also is found on the backwaters in large numbers, occasionally as many as 75 of these birds can be spotted fishing in the shallow waters at one time. And during winter it is not unusual to see bald eagles soaring above the frozen lakes or perched atop some snag.ActivitiesBoatingThe site provides a free launching ramp. There is no horsepower limit.CampingTent and trailer spaces with electricity and water are available. . Camping permits must be obtained from the site.Canoe camping is permitted on the islands except during waterfowl hunting season.FishingAll fishing is done on the Illinois River and its backwaters. Bluegill, crappie, bullhead and channel catfish are the most frequently caught fish. More experienced anglers can catch largemouth bass. A man made half-mile-long channel near the campground is popular for fishing.PicnickingA day-use area with tables, shelters and stoves (no drinking water) is located in the Spring Beach Unit, 2 miles south of Sparland on Route 29. A smaller picnic area is found along Route 26, 5 miles south of Lacon, near the campground.HuntingUpland and forest game hunting opportunities exist in designated wildlife management areas. Shotgun and bow and arrow hunting are permitted. There is no hunting in recreation areas.
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"Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>236 State Rt. 26</div> <div> <span>Lacon</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61540</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/Marshall.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-246-8351</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Marshall+Fish+and+Wildlife+Area%2C+236+State+Rt.+26%2C+Lacon%2C+IL+61540" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the mallard flyway and supports a wide variety of animals, plants and outdoor pursuits.With an initial land purchase in 1925, the three unit area has grown to include approximately 6,000 acres, of which half is land and half is water. The largest of the units is the Marshall Unit, consisting of 3,000 acres east of the Illinois River and adjacent to Route 26. The area headquarters is found here, along with a small campground, boat ramp, fishing channel, hunter check station and hiking trails. Terrain varies from ravine-cut bluffs to bottomland lakes, islands and sloughs. The Spring Beach Unit contains 1,642 acres (537 acres of water) on the west side of the Illinois River between Sparland and Chillicothe. The unit spans Marshall and Peoria counties. There is a 6-acre picnic area, fishing, and access to hunting and hiking trails adjacent to Route 29. The habitat ranges from upland forest to riverbottom to cropland. The Sparland Unit, the smallest of the three, consists of 1,280 acres, of which 1,110 acres are water. Lying between Route 29 and the Illinois River, Sparland is predominantly used as a waterfowl hunting area, although at times fishing is quite popular. The backwater is very shallow and boat access is difficult during low water. Natural Features On the east side of Route 26 and the west side of Route 29 are high bluffs containing heavy hardwood timber of oaks, hickories and walnuts interspersed with wildflowers and shrubs. Wildlife includes red, gray and flying squirrels, white-tailed deer, rabbits and other woodland species. Songbirds, owls and hawks are common, particularly during migrations. Bottomland forests and the backwater lakes comprise the majority of the area. Found here is a wide variety of fauna and flora. Cottonwood, silver maple and willow cover much of the low-lying land, including several large islands. River bullrush and other moist-soil plants thrive at the water’s edge. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink and beaver find this habitat to their liking and can sometimes be observed at dawn and dusk. A number of beaver dams dot the backwaters and these are good spots to watch wildlife. While not as attractive to wildlife as they once were due to heavy siltation, the backwater lakes still attract large flights of waterfowl during migration. Only the brightly colored wood duck, common to the area, remains during the summer to nest and raise its young. The tall and stately great blue heron also is found on the backwaters in large numbers, occasionally as many as 75 of these birds can be spotted fishing in the shallow waters at one time. And during winter it is not unusual to see bald eagles soaring above the frozen lakes or perched atop some snag.ActivitiesBoatingThe site provides a free launching ramp. There is no horsepower limit.CampingTent and trailer spaces with electricity and water are available. . Camping permits must be obtained from the site.Canoe camping is permitted on the islands except during waterfowl hunting season.FishingAll fishing is done on the Illinois River and its backwaters. Bluegill, crappie, bullhead and channel catfish are the most frequently caught fish. More experienced anglers can catch largemouth bass. A man made half-mile-long channel near the campground is popular for fishing.PicnickingA day-use area with tables, shelters and stoves (no drinking water) is located in the Spring Beach Unit, 2 miles south of Sparland on Route 29. A smaller picnic area is found along Route 26, 5 miles south of Lacon, near the campground.HuntingUpland and forest game hunting opportunities exist in designated wildlife management areas. Shotgun and bow and arrow hunting are permitted. There is no hunting in recreation areas.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lacon-il/report/place/marshall-fish-and-wildlife-area-lacon-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lacon-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lacon-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lacon</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lacon</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilbalanced-living-active-balance-exercise-class-for-a-healthier-you-virtual-123124-73nd2cvj5q4.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-ACTIVE-BALANCE-EXERCISE-CLASS-FOR-A-HEALTHIER-YOU">Active Balance Exercise Class for a Healthier You</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Dec 31, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook and YouTube</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lacon-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); 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}); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area - Lacon, IL</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area - Lacon, IL"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the" name="description"/> <meta content="Marshall, Fish, Wildlife, Area, Lacon, IL" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/marshall-fish-and-wildlife-area-lacon-il.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/marshall-fish-and-wildlife-area-lacon-il.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area"/> <meta property="og:description" content="AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="41.023602"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-89.408501"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>236 State Rt. 26</div> <div> <span>Lacon</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61540</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/Marshall.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-246-8351</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Marshall+Fish+and+Wildlife+Area%2C+236+State+Rt.+26%2C+Lacon%2C+IL+61540" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the mallard flyway and supports a wide variety of animals, plants and outdoor pursuits.With an initial land purchase in 1925, the three unit area has grown to include approximately 6,000 acres, of which half is land and half is water. The largest of the units is the Marshall Unit, consisting of 3,000 acres east of the Illinois River and adjacent to Route 26. The area headquarters is found here, along with a small campground, boat ramp, fishing channel, hunter check station and hiking trails. Terrain varies from ravine-cut bluffs to bottomland lakes, islands and sloughs. The Spring Beach Unit contains 1,642 acres (537 acres of water) on the west side of the Illinois River between Sparland and Chillicothe. The unit spans Marshall and Peoria counties. There is a 6-acre picnic area, fishing, and access to hunting and hiking trails adjacent to Route 29. The habitat ranges from upland forest to riverbottom to cropland. The Sparland Unit, the smallest of the three, consists of 1,280 acres, of which 1,110 acres are water. Lying between Route 29 and the Illinois River, Sparland is predominantly used as a waterfowl hunting area, although at times fishing is quite popular. The backwater is very shallow and boat access is difficult during low water. Natural Features On the east side of Route 26 and the west side of Route 29 are high bluffs containing heavy hardwood timber of oaks, hickories and walnuts interspersed with wildflowers and shrubs. Wildlife includes red, gray and flying squirrels, white-tailed deer, rabbits and other woodland species. Songbirds, owls and hawks are common, particularly during migrations. Bottomland forests and the backwater lakes comprise the majority of the area. Found here is a wide variety of fauna and flora. Cottonwood, silver maple and willow cover much of the low-lying land, including several large islands. River bullrush and other moist-soil plants thrive at the water’s edge. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink and beaver find this habitat to their liking and can sometimes be observed at dawn and dusk. A number of beaver dams dot the backwaters and these are good spots to watch wildlife. While not as attractive to wildlife as they once were due to heavy siltation, the backwater lakes still attract large flights of waterfowl during migration. Only the brightly colored wood duck, common to the area, remains during the summer to nest and raise its young. The tall and stately great blue heron also is found on the backwaters in large numbers, occasionally as many as 75 of these birds can be spotted fishing in the shallow waters at one time. And during winter it is not unusual to see bald eagles soaring above the frozen lakes or perched atop some snag.ActivitiesBoatingThe site provides a free launching ramp. There is no horsepower limit.CampingTent and trailer spaces with electricity and water are available. . Camping permits must be obtained from the site.Canoe camping is permitted on the islands except during waterfowl hunting season.FishingAll fishing is done on the Illinois River and its backwaters. Bluegill, crappie, bullhead and channel catfish are the most frequently caught fish. More experienced anglers can catch largemouth bass. A man made half-mile-long channel near the campground is popular for fishing.PicnickingA day-use area with tables, shelters and stoves (no drinking water) is located in the Spring Beach Unit, 2 miles south of Sparland on Route 29. A smaller picnic area is found along Route 26, 5 miles south of Lacon, near the campground.HuntingUpland and forest game hunting opportunities exist in designated wildlife management areas. Shotgun and bow and arrow hunting are permitted. There is no hunting in recreation areas.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lacon-il/report/place/marshall-fish-and-wildlife-area-lacon-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lacon-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lacon-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lacon</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lacon</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilbalanced-living-active-balance-exercise-class-for-a-healthier-you-virtual-123124-73nd2cvj5q4.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-ACTIVE-BALANCE-EXERCISE-CLASS-FOR-A-HEALTHIER-YOU">Active Balance Exercise Class for a Healthier You</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Dec 31, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook and YouTube</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 242]Code Context<?php // if (!$nowrapper) (Globals::$language == 'es') ? include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer_es.html") : include(APP . "/Resource/aarpe_footer.html"); ?><?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBDinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>236 State Rt. 26</div> <div> <span>Lacon</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61540</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/Marshall.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-246-8351</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Marshall+Fish+and+Wildlife+Area%2C+236+State+Rt.+26%2C+Lacon%2C+IL+61540" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the mallard flyway and supports a wide variety of animals, plants and outdoor pursuits.With an initial land purchase in 1925, the three unit area has grown to include approximately 6,000 acres, of which half is land and half is water. The largest of the units is the Marshall Unit, consisting of 3,000 acres east of the Illinois River and adjacent to Route 26. The area headquarters is found here, along with a small campground, boat ramp, fishing channel, hunter check station and hiking trails. Terrain varies from ravine-cut bluffs to bottomland lakes, islands and sloughs. The Spring Beach Unit contains 1,642 acres (537 acres of water) on the west side of the Illinois River between Sparland and Chillicothe. The unit spans Marshall and Peoria counties. There is a 6-acre picnic area, fishing, and access to hunting and hiking trails adjacent to Route 29. The habitat ranges from upland forest to riverbottom to cropland. The Sparland Unit, the smallest of the three, consists of 1,280 acres, of which 1,110 acres are water. Lying between Route 29 and the Illinois River, Sparland is predominantly used as a waterfowl hunting area, although at times fishing is quite popular. The backwater is very shallow and boat access is difficult during low water. Natural Features On the east side of Route 26 and the west side of Route 29 are high bluffs containing heavy hardwood timber of oaks, hickories and walnuts interspersed with wildflowers and shrubs. Wildlife includes red, gray and flying squirrels, white-tailed deer, rabbits and other woodland species. Songbirds, owls and hawks are common, particularly during migrations. Bottomland forests and the backwater lakes comprise the majority of the area. Found here is a wide variety of fauna and flora. Cottonwood, silver maple and willow cover much of the low-lying land, including several large islands. River bullrush and other moist-soil plants thrive at the water’s edge. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink and beaver find this habitat to their liking and can sometimes be observed at dawn and dusk. A number of beaver dams dot the backwaters and these are good spots to watch wildlife. While not as attractive to wildlife as they once were due to heavy siltation, the backwater lakes still attract large flights of waterfowl during migration. Only the brightly colored wood duck, common to the area, remains during the summer to nest and raise its young. The tall and stately great blue heron also is found on the backwaters in large numbers, occasionally as many as 75 of these birds can be spotted fishing in the shallow waters at one time. And during winter it is not unusual to see bald eagles soaring above the frozen lakes or perched atop some snag.ActivitiesBoatingThe site provides a free launching ramp. There is no horsepower limit.CampingTent and trailer spaces with electricity and water are available. . Camping permits must be obtained from the site.Canoe camping is permitted on the islands except during waterfowl hunting season.FishingAll fishing is done on the Illinois River and its backwaters. Bluegill, crappie, bullhead and channel catfish are the most frequently caught fish. More experienced anglers can catch largemouth bass. A man made half-mile-long channel near the campground is popular for fishing.PicnickingA day-use area with tables, shelters and stoves (no drinking water) is located in the Spring Beach Unit, 2 miles south of Sparland on Route 29. A smaller picnic area is found along Route 26, 5 miles south of Lacon, near the campground.HuntingUpland and forest game hunting opportunities exist in designated wildlife management areas. Shotgun and bow and arrow hunting are permitted. There is no hunting in recreation areas.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lacon-il/report/place/marshall-fish-and-wildlife-area-lacon-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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The largest of the units is the Marshall Unit, consisting of 3,000 acres east of the Illinois River and adjacent to Route 26. The area headquarters is found here, along with a small campground, boat ramp, fishing channel, hunter check station and hiking trails. Terrain varies from ravine-cut bluffs to bottomland lakes, islands and sloughs. The Spring Beach Unit contains 1,642 acres (537 acres of water) on the west side of the Illinois River between Sparland and Chillicothe. The unit spans Marshall and Peoria counties. There is a 6-acre picnic area, fishing, and access to hunting and hiking trails adjacent to Route 29. The habitat ranges from upland forest to riverbottom to cropland. The Sparland Unit, the smallest of the three, consists of 1,280 acres, of which 1,110 acres are water. Lying between Route 29 and the Illinois River, Sparland is predominantly used as a waterfowl hunting area, although at times fishing is quite popular. The backwater is very shallow and boat access is difficult during low water. Natural Features On the east side of Route 26 and the west side of Route 29 are high bluffs containing heavy hardwood timber of oaks, hickories and walnuts interspersed with wildflowers and shrubs. Wildlife includes red, gray and flying squirrels, white-tailed deer, rabbits and other woodland species. Songbirds, owls and hawks are common, particularly during migrations. Bottomland forests and the backwater lakes comprise the majority of the area. Found here is a wide variety of fauna and flora. Cottonwood, silver maple and willow cover much of the low-lying land, including several large islands. River bullrush and other moist-soil plants thrive at the water’s edge. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink and beaver find this habitat to their liking and can sometimes be observed at dawn and dusk. A number of beaver dams dot the backwaters and these are good spots to watch wildlife. While not as attractive to wildlife as they once were due to heavy siltation, the backwater lakes still attract large flights of waterfowl during migration. Only the brightly colored wood duck, common to the area, remains during the summer to nest and raise its young. The tall and stately great blue heron also is found on the backwaters in large numbers, occasionally as many as 75 of these birds can be spotted fishing in the shallow waters at one time. And during winter it is not unusual to see bald eagles soaring above the frozen lakes or perched atop some snag.ActivitiesBoatingThe site provides a free launching ramp. There is no horsepower limit.CampingTent and trailer spaces with electricity and water are available. . Camping permits must be obtained from the site.Canoe camping is permitted on the islands except during waterfowl hunting season.FishingAll fishing is done on the Illinois River and its backwaters. Bluegill, crappie, bullhead and channel catfish are the most frequently caught fish. More experienced anglers can catch largemouth bass. A man made half-mile-long channel near the campground is popular for fishing.PicnickingA day-use area with tables, shelters and stoves (no drinking water) is located in the Spring Beach Unit, 2 miles south of Sparland on Route 29. A smaller picnic area is found along Route 26, 5 miles south of Lacon, near the campground.HuntingUpland and forest game hunting opportunities exist in designated wildlife management areas. Shotgun and bow and arrow hunting are permitted. 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Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBDinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>236 State Rt. 26</div> <div> <span>Lacon</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61540</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/Marshall.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-246-8351</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Marshall+Fish+and+Wildlife+Area%2C+236+State+Rt.+26%2C+Lacon%2C+IL+61540" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the mallard flyway and supports a wide variety of animals, plants and outdoor pursuits.With an initial land purchase in 1925, the three unit area has grown to include approximately 6,000 acres, of which half is land and half is water. The largest of the units is the Marshall Unit, consisting of 3,000 acres east of the Illinois River and adjacent to Route 26. The area headquarters is found here, along with a small campground, boat ramp, fishing channel, hunter check station and hiking trails. Terrain varies from ravine-cut bluffs to bottomland lakes, islands and sloughs. The Spring Beach Unit contains 1,642 acres (537 acres of water) on the west side of the Illinois River between Sparland and Chillicothe. The unit spans Marshall and Peoria counties. There is a 6-acre picnic area, fishing, and access to hunting and hiking trails adjacent to Route 29. The habitat ranges from upland forest to riverbottom to cropland. The Sparland Unit, the smallest of the three, consists of 1,280 acres, of which 1,110 acres are water. Lying between Route 29 and the Illinois River, Sparland is predominantly used as a waterfowl hunting area, although at times fishing is quite popular. The backwater is very shallow and boat access is difficult during low water. Natural Features On the east side of Route 26 and the west side of Route 29 are high bluffs containing heavy hardwood timber of oaks, hickories and walnuts interspersed with wildflowers and shrubs. Wildlife includes red, gray and flying squirrels, white-tailed deer, rabbits and other woodland species. Songbirds, owls and hawks are common, particularly during migrations. Bottomland forests and the backwater lakes comprise the majority of the area. Found here is a wide variety of fauna and flora. Cottonwood, silver maple and willow cover much of the low-lying land, including several large islands. River bullrush and other moist-soil plants thrive at the water’s edge. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink and beaver find this habitat to their liking and can sometimes be observed at dawn and dusk. A number of beaver dams dot the backwaters and these are good spots to watch wildlife. While not as attractive to wildlife as they once were due to heavy siltation, the backwater lakes still attract large flights of waterfowl during migration. Only the brightly colored wood duck, common to the area, remains during the summer to nest and raise its young. The tall and stately great blue heron also is found on the backwaters in large numbers, occasionally as many as 75 of these birds can be spotted fishing in the shallow waters at one time. And during winter it is not unusual to see bald eagles soaring above the frozen lakes or perched atop some snag.ActivitiesBoatingThe site provides a free launching ramp. There is no horsepower limit.CampingTent and trailer spaces with electricity and water are available. . Camping permits must be obtained from the site.Canoe camping is permitted on the islands except during waterfowl hunting season.FishingAll fishing is done on the Illinois River and its backwaters. Bluegill, crappie, bullhead and channel catfish are the most frequently caught fish. More experienced anglers can catch largemouth bass. A man made half-mile-long channel near the campground is popular for fishing.PicnickingA day-use area with tables, shelters and stoves (no drinking water) is located in the Spring Beach Unit, 2 miles south of Sparland on Route 29. A smaller picnic area is found along Route 26, 5 miles south of Lacon, near the campground.HuntingUpland and forest game hunting opportunities exist in designated wildlife management areas. Shotgun and bow and arrow hunting are permitted. There is no hunting in recreation areas.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lacon-il/report/place/marshall-fish-and-wildlife-area-lacon-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lacon-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lacon-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lacon</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lacon</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilbalanced-living-active-balance-exercise-class-for-a-healthier-you-virtual-123124-73nd2cvj5q4.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-ACTIVE-BALANCE-EXERCISE-CLASS-FOR-A-HEALTHIER-YOU">Active Balance Exercise Class for a Healthier You</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Dec 31, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook and YouTube</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lacon-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); 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}); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area - Lacon, IL</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area - Lacon, IL"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the" name="description"/> <meta content="Marshall, Fish, Wildlife, Area, Lacon, IL" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/marshall-fish-and-wildlife-area-lacon-il.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/marshall-fish-and-wildlife-area-lacon-il.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area"/> <meta property="og:description" content="AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="41.023602"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-89.408501"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>236 State Rt. 26</div> <div> <span>Lacon</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61540</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/Marshall.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-246-8351</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Marshall+Fish+and+Wildlife+Area%2C+236+State+Rt.+26%2C+Lacon%2C+IL+61540" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the mallard flyway and supports a wide variety of animals, plants and outdoor pursuits.With an initial land purchase in 1925, the three unit area has grown to include approximately 6,000 acres, of which half is land and half is water. The largest of the units is the Marshall Unit, consisting of 3,000 acres east of the Illinois River and adjacent to Route 26. The area headquarters is found here, along with a small campground, boat ramp, fishing channel, hunter check station and hiking trails. Terrain varies from ravine-cut bluffs to bottomland lakes, islands and sloughs. The Spring Beach Unit contains 1,642 acres (537 acres of water) on the west side of the Illinois River between Sparland and Chillicothe. The unit spans Marshall and Peoria counties. There is a 6-acre picnic area, fishing, and access to hunting and hiking trails adjacent to Route 29. The habitat ranges from upland forest to riverbottom to cropland. The Sparland Unit, the smallest of the three, consists of 1,280 acres, of which 1,110 acres are water. Lying between Route 29 and the Illinois River, Sparland is predominantly used as a waterfowl hunting area, although at times fishing is quite popular. The backwater is very shallow and boat access is difficult during low water. Natural Features On the east side of Route 26 and the west side of Route 29 are high bluffs containing heavy hardwood timber of oaks, hickories and walnuts interspersed with wildflowers and shrubs. Wildlife includes red, gray and flying squirrels, white-tailed deer, rabbits and other woodland species. Songbirds, owls and hawks are common, particularly during migrations. Bottomland forests and the backwater lakes comprise the majority of the area. Found here is a wide variety of fauna and flora. Cottonwood, silver maple and willow cover much of the low-lying land, including several large islands. River bullrush and other moist-soil plants thrive at the water’s edge. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink and beaver find this habitat to their liking and can sometimes be observed at dawn and dusk. A number of beaver dams dot the backwaters and these are good spots to watch wildlife. While not as attractive to wildlife as they once were due to heavy siltation, the backwater lakes still attract large flights of waterfowl during migration. Only the brightly colored wood duck, common to the area, remains during the summer to nest and raise its young. The tall and stately great blue heron also is found on the backwaters in large numbers, occasionally as many as 75 of these birds can be spotted fishing in the shallow waters at one time. And during winter it is not unusual to see bald eagles soaring above the frozen lakes or perched atop some snag.ActivitiesBoatingThe site provides a free launching ramp. There is no horsepower limit.CampingTent and trailer spaces with electricity and water are available. . Camping permits must be obtained from the site.Canoe camping is permitted on the islands except during waterfowl hunting season.FishingAll fishing is done on the Illinois River and its backwaters. Bluegill, crappie, bullhead and channel catfish are the most frequently caught fish. More experienced anglers can catch largemouth bass. A man made half-mile-long channel near the campground is popular for fishing.PicnickingA day-use area with tables, shelters and stoves (no drinking water) is located in the Spring Beach Unit, 2 miles south of Sparland on Route 29. A smaller picnic area is found along Route 26, 5 miles south of Lacon, near the campground.HuntingUpland and forest game hunting opportunities exist in designated wildlife management areas. Shotgun and bow and arrow hunting are permitted. There is no hunting in recreation areas.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lacon-il/report/place/marshall-fish-and-wildlife-area-lacon-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 243]Code Context<?php if (!$nowrapper): // MLW - Spanish wrappers TBDinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>236 State Rt. 26</div> <div> <span>Lacon</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61540</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/Marshall.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-246-8351</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Marshall+Fish+and+Wildlife+Area%2C+236+State+Rt.+26%2C+Lacon%2C+IL+61540" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the mallard flyway and supports a wide variety of animals, plants and outdoor pursuits.With an initial land purchase in 1925, the three unit area has grown to include approximately 6,000 acres, of which half is land and half is water. The largest of the units is the Marshall Unit, consisting of 3,000 acres east of the Illinois River and adjacent to Route 26. The area headquarters is found here, along with a small campground, boat ramp, fishing channel, hunter check station and hiking trails. Terrain varies from ravine-cut bluffs to bottomland lakes, islands and sloughs. The Spring Beach Unit contains 1,642 acres (537 acres of water) on the west side of the Illinois River between Sparland and Chillicothe. The unit spans Marshall and Peoria counties. There is a 6-acre picnic area, fishing, and access to hunting and hiking trails adjacent to Route 29. The habitat ranges from upland forest to riverbottom to cropland. The Sparland Unit, the smallest of the three, consists of 1,280 acres, of which 1,110 acres are water. Lying between Route 29 and the Illinois River, Sparland is predominantly used as a waterfowl hunting area, although at times fishing is quite popular. The backwater is very shallow and boat access is difficult during low water. Natural Features On the east side of Route 26 and the west side of Route 29 are high bluffs containing heavy hardwood timber of oaks, hickories and walnuts interspersed with wildflowers and shrubs. Wildlife includes red, gray and flying squirrels, white-tailed deer, rabbits and other woodland species. Songbirds, owls and hawks are common, particularly during migrations. Bottomland forests and the backwater lakes comprise the majority of the area. Found here is a wide variety of fauna and flora. Cottonwood, silver maple and willow cover much of the low-lying land, including several large islands. River bullrush and other moist-soil plants thrive at the water’s edge. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink and beaver find this habitat to their liking and can sometimes be observed at dawn and dusk. A number of beaver dams dot the backwaters and these are good spots to watch wildlife. While not as attractive to wildlife as they once were due to heavy siltation, the backwater lakes still attract large flights of waterfowl during migration. Only the brightly colored wood duck, common to the area, remains during the summer to nest and raise its young. The tall and stately great blue heron also is found on the backwaters in large numbers, occasionally as many as 75 of these birds can be spotted fishing in the shallow waters at one time. And during winter it is not unusual to see bald eagles soaring above the frozen lakes or perched atop some snag.ActivitiesBoatingThe site provides a free launching ramp. There is no horsepower limit.CampingTent and trailer spaces with electricity and water are available. . Camping permits must be obtained from the site.Canoe camping is permitted on the islands except during waterfowl hunting season.FishingAll fishing is done on the Illinois River and its backwaters. Bluegill, crappie, bullhead and channel catfish are the most frequently caught fish. More experienced anglers can catch largemouth bass. A man made half-mile-long channel near the campground is popular for fishing.PicnickingA day-use area with tables, shelters and stoves (no drinking water) is located in the Spring Beach Unit, 2 miles south of Sparland on Route 29. A smaller picnic area is found along Route 26, 5 miles south of Lacon, near the campground.HuntingUpland and forest game hunting opportunities exist in designated wildlife management areas. Shotgun and bow and arrow hunting are permitted. There is no hunting in recreation areas.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lacon-il/report/place/marshall-fish-and-wildlife-area-lacon-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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The largest of the units is the Marshall Unit, consisting of 3,000 acres east of the Illinois River and adjacent to Route 26. The area headquarters is found here, along with a small campground, boat ramp, fishing channel, hunter check station and hiking trails. Terrain varies from ravine-cut bluffs to bottomland lakes, islands and sloughs. The Spring Beach Unit contains 1,642 acres (537 acres of water) on the west side of the Illinois River between Sparland and Chillicothe. The unit spans Marshall and Peoria counties. There is a 6-acre picnic area, fishing, and access to hunting and hiking trails adjacent to Route 29. The habitat ranges from upland forest to riverbottom to cropland. The Sparland Unit, the smallest of the three, consists of 1,280 acres, of which 1,110 acres are water. Lying between Route 29 and the Illinois River, Sparland is predominantly used as a waterfowl hunting area, although at times fishing is quite popular. The backwater is very shallow and boat access is difficult during low water. Natural Features On the east side of Route 26 and the west side of Route 29 are high bluffs containing heavy hardwood timber of oaks, hickories and walnuts interspersed with wildflowers and shrubs. Wildlife includes red, gray and flying squirrels, white-tailed deer, rabbits and other woodland species. Songbirds, owls and hawks are common, particularly during migrations. Bottomland forests and the backwater lakes comprise the majority of the area. Found here is a wide variety of fauna and flora. Cottonwood, silver maple and willow cover much of the low-lying land, including several large islands. River bullrush and other moist-soil plants thrive at the water’s edge. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink and beaver find this habitat to their liking and can sometimes be observed at dawn and dusk. A number of beaver dams dot the backwaters and these are good spots to watch wildlife. While not as attractive to wildlife as they once were due to heavy siltation, the backwater lakes still attract large flights of waterfowl during migration. Only the brightly colored wood duck, common to the area, remains during the summer to nest and raise its young. The tall and stately great blue heron also is found on the backwaters in large numbers, occasionally as many as 75 of these birds can be spotted fishing in the shallow waters at one time. And during winter it is not unusual to see bald eagles soaring above the frozen lakes or perched atop some snag.ActivitiesBoatingThe site provides a free launching ramp. There is no horsepower limit.CampingTent and trailer spaces with electricity and water are available. . Camping permits must be obtained from the site.Canoe camping is permitted on the islands except during waterfowl hunting season.FishingAll fishing is done on the Illinois River and its backwaters. Bluegill, crappie, bullhead and channel catfish are the most frequently caught fish. More experienced anglers can catch largemouth bass. A man made half-mile-long channel near the campground is popular for fishing.PicnickingA day-use area with tables, shelters and stoves (no drinking water) is located in the Spring Beach Unit, 2 miles south of Sparland on Route 29. A smaller picnic area is found along Route 26, 5 miles south of Lacon, near the campground.HuntingUpland and forest game hunting opportunities exist in designated wildlife management areas. Shotgun and bow and arrow hunting are permitted. 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Warning (2): include(/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html) [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: failed to open stream: No such file or directory [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]Code Contextinclude (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.footer.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.bodyTargeting.html");include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>236 State Rt. 26</div> <div> <span>Lacon</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61540</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/Marshall.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-246-8351</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Marshall+Fish+and+Wildlife+Area%2C+236+State+Rt.+26%2C+Lacon%2C+IL+61540" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the mallard flyway and supports a wide variety of animals, plants and outdoor pursuits.With an initial land purchase in 1925, the three unit area has grown to include approximately 6,000 acres, of which half is land and half is water. The largest of the units is the Marshall Unit, consisting of 3,000 acres east of the Illinois River and adjacent to Route 26. The area headquarters is found here, along with a small campground, boat ramp, fishing channel, hunter check station and hiking trails. Terrain varies from ravine-cut bluffs to bottomland lakes, islands and sloughs. The Spring Beach Unit contains 1,642 acres (537 acres of water) on the west side of the Illinois River between Sparland and Chillicothe. The unit spans Marshall and Peoria counties. There is a 6-acre picnic area, fishing, and access to hunting and hiking trails adjacent to Route 29. The habitat ranges from upland forest to riverbottom to cropland. The Sparland Unit, the smallest of the three, consists of 1,280 acres, of which 1,110 acres are water. Lying between Route 29 and the Illinois River, Sparland is predominantly used as a waterfowl hunting area, although at times fishing is quite popular. The backwater is very shallow and boat access is difficult during low water. Natural Features On the east side of Route 26 and the west side of Route 29 are high bluffs containing heavy hardwood timber of oaks, hickories and walnuts interspersed with wildflowers and shrubs. Wildlife includes red, gray and flying squirrels, white-tailed deer, rabbits and other woodland species. Songbirds, owls and hawks are common, particularly during migrations. Bottomland forests and the backwater lakes comprise the majority of the area. Found here is a wide variety of fauna and flora. Cottonwood, silver maple and willow cover much of the low-lying land, including several large islands. River bullrush and other moist-soil plants thrive at the water’s edge. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink and beaver find this habitat to their liking and can sometimes be observed at dawn and dusk. A number of beaver dams dot the backwaters and these are good spots to watch wildlife. While not as attractive to wildlife as they once were due to heavy siltation, the backwater lakes still attract large flights of waterfowl during migration. Only the brightly colored wood duck, common to the area, remains during the summer to nest and raise its young. The tall and stately great blue heron also is found on the backwaters in large numbers, occasionally as many as 75 of these birds can be spotted fishing in the shallow waters at one time. And during winter it is not unusual to see bald eagles soaring above the frozen lakes or perched atop some snag.ActivitiesBoatingThe site provides a free launching ramp. There is no horsepower limit.CampingTent and trailer spaces with electricity and water are available. . Camping permits must be obtained from the site.Canoe camping is permitted on the islands except during waterfowl hunting season.FishingAll fishing is done on the Illinois River and its backwaters. Bluegill, crappie, bullhead and channel catfish are the most frequently caught fish. More experienced anglers can catch largemouth bass. A man made half-mile-long channel near the campground is popular for fishing.PicnickingA day-use area with tables, shelters and stoves (no drinking water) is located in the Spring Beach Unit, 2 miles south of Sparland on Route 29. A smaller picnic area is found along Route 26, 5 miles south of Lacon, near the campground.HuntingUpland and forest game hunting opportunities exist in designated wildlife management areas. Shotgun and bow and arrow hunting are permitted. There is no hunting in recreation areas.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lacon-il/report/place/marshall-fish-and-wildlife-area-lacon-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. Nothing you submit will be shared with other site visitors. </div> <style> .report_button_message { color: #333; font-size: 12px; clear: both; } </style> </div> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><div class="module-spacer tout-homefit-750"> <a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" href="/lacon-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a> </div></div></div> <div class="col-md-4 right-rail thin-rhs"><div class="module clearfix"><!--default--> <!-- module_RHS - AARP Events --> <div class="ar-basic-box module-spacer"> <header> <div class="pull-right"> <a href="/lacon-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS"> <img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" /> </a> </div> <h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Lacon</h2> <h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Lacon</h2> </header> <div class="wrap"> <div class="ar-listing snippet"> <ul class="list"> <li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ilbalanced-living-active-balance-exercise-class-for-a-healthier-you-virtual-123124-73nd2cvj5q4.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-ACTIVE-BALANCE-EXERCISE-CLASS-FOR-A-HEALTHIER-YOU">Active Balance Exercise Class for a Healthier You</a></h2> <p class="time">Tuesday, Dec 31, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Facebook and YouTube</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1"> <h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2> <p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT</p> <p class="venue">Zoom</p> <p class="loc">Online Event</p> </li> </ul> <p><a class="link-red" href="/lacon-il/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper"> <div class="aarpe-ad en clearfix" id="300x250_53475" data-adsize="300x250"> <script type="text/javascript"> if(typeof AARP.ads !== 'undefined'){ AARP.ads.slots({ id:'300x250_53475', size:'300x250'}); 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}); </script> </div> </div> ', 'scripts_for_layout' => '<title>Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area - Lacon, IL</title> <meta name="page_title" content="Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area - Lacon, IL"/> <meta name="robots" content="noindex, nofollow"/> <meta content="AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the" name="description"/> <meta content="Marshall, Fish, Wildlife, Area, Lacon, IL" name="keywords"/> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.americantowns.com/place/marshall-fish-and-wildlife-area-lacon-il.html" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://vccstaging.local.aarp.org/place/marshall-fish-and-wildlife-area-lacon-il.html"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the"/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="og:type" content="place"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area"/> <meta property="og:description" content="AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the"/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/thumbs/generic-icon.jpg"/> <meta property="place:location:latitude" content="41.023602"/> <meta property="place:location:longitude" content="-89.408501"/> ', 'title_for_layout' => 'Place Detail - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>236 State Rt. 26</div> <div> <span>Lacon</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61540</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/Marshall.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-246-8351</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Marshall+Fish+and+Wildlife+Area%2C+236+State+Rt.+26%2C+Lacon%2C+IL+61540" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the mallard flyway and supports a wide variety of animals, plants and outdoor pursuits.With an initial land purchase in 1925, the three unit area has grown to include approximately 6,000 acres, of which half is land and half is water. The largest of the units is the Marshall Unit, consisting of 3,000 acres east of the Illinois River and adjacent to Route 26. The area headquarters is found here, along with a small campground, boat ramp, fishing channel, hunter check station and hiking trails. Terrain varies from ravine-cut bluffs to bottomland lakes, islands and sloughs. The Spring Beach Unit contains 1,642 acres (537 acres of water) on the west side of the Illinois River between Sparland and Chillicothe. The unit spans Marshall and Peoria counties. There is a 6-acre picnic area, fishing, and access to hunting and hiking trails adjacent to Route 29. The habitat ranges from upland forest to riverbottom to cropland. The Sparland Unit, the smallest of the three, consists of 1,280 acres, of which 1,110 acres are water. Lying between Route 29 and the Illinois River, Sparland is predominantly used as a waterfowl hunting area, although at times fishing is quite popular. The backwater is very shallow and boat access is difficult during low water. Natural Features On the east side of Route 26 and the west side of Route 29 are high bluffs containing heavy hardwood timber of oaks, hickories and walnuts interspersed with wildflowers and shrubs. Wildlife includes red, gray and flying squirrels, white-tailed deer, rabbits and other woodland species. Songbirds, owls and hawks are common, particularly during migrations. Bottomland forests and the backwater lakes comprise the majority of the area. Found here is a wide variety of fauna and flora. Cottonwood, silver maple and willow cover much of the low-lying land, including several large islands. River bullrush and other moist-soil plants thrive at the water’s edge. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink and beaver find this habitat to their liking and can sometimes be observed at dawn and dusk. A number of beaver dams dot the backwaters and these are good spots to watch wildlife. While not as attractive to wildlife as they once were due to heavy siltation, the backwater lakes still attract large flights of waterfowl during migration. Only the brightly colored wood duck, common to the area, remains during the summer to nest and raise its young. The tall and stately great blue heron also is found on the backwaters in large numbers, occasionally as many as 75 of these birds can be spotted fishing in the shallow waters at one time. And during winter it is not unusual to see bald eagles soaring above the frozen lakes or perched atop some snag.ActivitiesBoatingThe site provides a free launching ramp. There is no horsepower limit.CampingTent and trailer spaces with electricity and water are available. . Camping permits must be obtained from the site.Canoe camping is permitted on the islands except during waterfowl hunting season.FishingAll fishing is done on the Illinois River and its backwaters. Bluegill, crappie, bullhead and channel catfish are the most frequently caught fish. More experienced anglers can catch largemouth bass. A man made half-mile-long channel near the campground is popular for fishing.PicnickingA day-use area with tables, shelters and stoves (no drinking water) is located in the Spring Beach Unit, 2 miles south of Sparland on Route 29. A smaller picnic area is found along Route 26, 5 miles south of Lacon, near the campground.HuntingUpland and forest game hunting opportunities exist in designated wildlife management areas. Shotgun and bow and arrow hunting are permitted. There is no hunting in recreation areas.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lacon-il/report/place/marshall-fish-and-wildlife-area-lacon-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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"Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">Marshall Fish and Wildlife Area</h1></header> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer"> <p> <div> <div>236 State Rt. 26</div> <div> <span>Lacon</span>, <span>IL</span> <span>61540</span> </div> </div> </p> <div> <i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Activity/Pages/Marshall.aspx" target="_blank">Visit Website</a> </div> <div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 309-246-8351</div> </div> <div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer"> <iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Marshall+Fish+and+Wildlife+Area%2C+236+State+Rt.+26%2C+Lacon%2C+IL+61540" allowfullscreen> </iframe> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer clearfix"> <p>AreaMarshall State Fish and Wildlife Area, located along nearly 10 miles of scenic Illinois River backwaters, bottomlands and bluffs, lies in the heart of the mallard flyway and supports a wide variety of animals, plants and outdoor pursuits.With an initial land purchase in 1925, the three unit area has grown to include approximately 6,000 acres, of which half is land and half is water. The largest of the units is the Marshall Unit, consisting of 3,000 acres east of the Illinois River and adjacent to Route 26. The area headquarters is found here, along with a small campground, boat ramp, fishing channel, hunter check station and hiking trails. Terrain varies from ravine-cut bluffs to bottomland lakes, islands and sloughs. The Spring Beach Unit contains 1,642 acres (537 acres of water) on the west side of the Illinois River between Sparland and Chillicothe. The unit spans Marshall and Peoria counties. There is a 6-acre picnic area, fishing, and access to hunting and hiking trails adjacent to Route 29. The habitat ranges from upland forest to riverbottom to cropland. The Sparland Unit, the smallest of the three, consists of 1,280 acres, of which 1,110 acres are water. Lying between Route 29 and the Illinois River, Sparland is predominantly used as a waterfowl hunting area, although at times fishing is quite popular. The backwater is very shallow and boat access is difficult during low water. Natural Features On the east side of Route 26 and the west side of Route 29 are high bluffs containing heavy hardwood timber of oaks, hickories and walnuts interspersed with wildflowers and shrubs. Wildlife includes red, gray and flying squirrels, white-tailed deer, rabbits and other woodland species. Songbirds, owls and hawks are common, particularly during migrations. Bottomland forests and the backwater lakes comprise the majority of the area. Found here is a wide variety of fauna and flora. Cottonwood, silver maple and willow cover much of the low-lying land, including several large islands. River bullrush and other moist-soil plants thrive at the water’s edge. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink and beaver find this habitat to their liking and can sometimes be observed at dawn and dusk. A number of beaver dams dot the backwaters and these are good spots to watch wildlife. While not as attractive to wildlife as they once were due to heavy siltation, the backwater lakes still attract large flights of waterfowl during migration. Only the brightly colored wood duck, common to the area, remains during the summer to nest and raise its young. The tall and stately great blue heron also is found on the backwaters in large numbers, occasionally as many as 75 of these birds can be spotted fishing in the shallow waters at one time. And during winter it is not unusual to see bald eagles soaring above the frozen lakes or perched atop some snag.ActivitiesBoatingThe site provides a free launching ramp. There is no horsepower limit.CampingTent and trailer spaces with electricity and water are available. . Camping permits must be obtained from the site.Canoe camping is permitted on the islands except during waterfowl hunting season.FishingAll fishing is done on the Illinois River and its backwaters. Bluegill, crappie, bullhead and channel catfish are the most frequently caught fish. More experienced anglers can catch largemouth bass. A man made half-mile-long channel near the campground is popular for fishing.PicnickingA day-use area with tables, shelters and stoves (no drinking water) is located in the Spring Beach Unit, 2 miles south of Sparland on Route 29. A smaller picnic area is found along Route 26, 5 miles south of Lacon, near the campground.HuntingUpland and forest game hunting opportunities exist in designated wildlife management areas. Shotgun and bow and arrow hunting are permitted. There is no hunting in recreation areas.</p> </div> <div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;"> <form method="post" action="/lacon-il/report/place/marshall-fish-and-wildlife-area-lacon-il.html"> <button type="submit" class="btn btnregister pull-right" style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Flag This Place</button> </form> </div> <div class="report_button_message">Please use "Flag This Place" to alert us about content that is inappropriate or needs immediate attention. 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The largest of the units is the Marshall Unit, consisting of 3,000 acres east of the Illinois River and adjacent to Route 26. The area headquarters is found here, along with a small campground, boat ramp, fishing channel, hunter check station and hiking trails. Terrain varies from ravine-cut bluffs to bottomland lakes, islands and sloughs. The Spring Beach Unit contains 1,642 acres (537 acres of water) on the west side of the Illinois River between Sparland and Chillicothe. The unit spans Marshall and Peoria counties. There is a 6-acre picnic area, fishing, and access to hunting and hiking trails adjacent to Route 29. The habitat ranges from upland forest to riverbottom to cropland. The Sparland Unit, the smallest of the three, consists of 1,280 acres, of which 1,110 acres are water. Lying between Route 29 and the Illinois River, Sparland is predominantly used as a waterfowl hunting area, although at times fishing is quite popular. The backwater is very shallow and boat access is difficult during low water. Natural Features On the east side of Route 26 and the west side of Route 29 are high bluffs containing heavy hardwood timber of oaks, hickories and walnuts interspersed with wildflowers and shrubs. Wildlife includes red, gray and flying squirrels, white-tailed deer, rabbits and other woodland species. Songbirds, owls and hawks are common, particularly during migrations. Bottomland forests and the backwater lakes comprise the majority of the area. Found here is a wide variety of fauna and flora. Cottonwood, silver maple and willow cover much of the low-lying land, including several large islands. River bullrush and other moist-soil plants thrive at the water’s edge. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink and beaver find this habitat to their liking and can sometimes be observed at dawn and dusk. A number of beaver dams dot the backwaters and these are good spots to watch wildlife. While not as attractive to wildlife as they once were due to heavy siltation, the backwater lakes still attract large flights of waterfowl during migration. Only the brightly colored wood duck, common to the area, remains during the summer to nest and raise its young. The tall and stately great blue heron also is found on the backwaters in large numbers, occasionally as many as 75 of these birds can be spotted fishing in the shallow waters at one time. And during winter it is not unusual to see bald eagles soaring above the frozen lakes or perched atop some snag.ActivitiesBoatingThe site provides a free launching ramp. There is no horsepower limit.CampingTent and trailer spaces with electricity and water are available. . Camping permits must be obtained from the site.Canoe camping is permitted on the islands except during waterfowl hunting season.FishingAll fishing is done on the Illinois River and its backwaters. Bluegill, crappie, bullhead and channel catfish are the most frequently caught fish. More experienced anglers can catch largemouth bass. A man made half-mile-long channel near the campground is popular for fishing.PicnickingA day-use area with tables, shelters and stoves (no drinking water) is located in the Spring Beach Unit, 2 miles south of Sparland on Route 29. A smaller picnic area is found along Route 26, 5 miles south of Lacon, near the campground.HuntingUpland and forest game hunting opportunities exist in designated wildlife management areas. Shotgun and bow and arrow hunting are permitted. 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$location = '<a href="/lacon-il/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Lacon, IL</a>' $no_header = false $header_title = '<a href="/lacon-il/things-to-do/">Places</a>' $header_subtitle = '' $isPR = false $navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse"> <div class="containerx"> <div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div> <ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true"> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lacon-il/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lacon-il/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lacon-il/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lacon-il/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lacon-il/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/lacon-il/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li> <li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more"> <span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span> <ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu"> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lacon-il/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lacon-il/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lacon-il/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lacon-il/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li> <!-- <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lacon-il/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lacon-il/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li> <li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/lacon-il/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li> --> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </nav>' $header_custom = '' $breadcrumbs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'title' => 'Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) ) $row = array( 'title' => 'Back to Things to Do', 'slug' => 'things-to-do' ) $i = (int) 0include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933 View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963 AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136 PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501 ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ?? Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118