More on wildlife viewing in Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

Wade into the Water
The three refuge lakes-Crab Orchard, Little Grassy, and Devil's Kitchen-are full of recreation-seekers interested in boating, sailing, water skiing, and fishing. Crab Orchard Lake is the largest at 7,000 acres and has marinas and campgrounds. Three major bass tournaments are held on Crab Orchard Lake, and fishers can look forward to catching largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill among the 62 species of fish populating the waterways.

Hike a Nature Trail
Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge has four nature trails including the fully accessible Woodland Trail at the visitor center and the Rocky Bluff Trail so popular for viewing spring and summer wildflowers. This is a great place to visit for novice hikers, and seasoned trail stompers who just want to limber up a little in the early spring when wildflowers are in bloom.