Conservation areas in Marion, Illinois

Harmony Trail is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Marion, Illinois, United States. As part of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, visitors can easily pay entrance fees, purchase annual vessel passes, and reserve campsites through recreation.gov. This national wildlife refuge offers a chance to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with nature. Whether you enjoy hiking, canoeing, hunting, camping, picnicking, wildlife photography, or birdwatching, a visit to Harmony Trail is a great way to explore the outdoors. In addition to recreational activities, the refuge will be a prime viewing area for the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, providing over 4 minutes of total eclipse viewing time. Visitors can prepare for this event by learning safety tips and viewing opportunities. Some commercial, recreational, and research activities on the refuge require a special use permit, ensuring the conservation of the area.

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, located in Marion, Illinois, is a beautiful park offering visitors a chance to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and immerse themselves in nature. Managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the refuge is dedicated to the conservation and restoration of fish, wildlife, and plant resources for the benefit of present and future generations. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, hunting, camping, picnicking, wildlife photography, and birdwatching. The refuge is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bald eagles, wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, and various songbirds.

Woodland Trail Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful park located in Marion, Illinois, United States. This national wildlife refuge offers visitors a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse themselves in nature. From hiking and canoeing to hunting and wildlife photography, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. Visitors can also take advantage of the opportunity to witness the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, with over 4 minutes of total eclipse viewing time. The refuge is a prime viewing area for this spectacular event, and visitors can learn how to view it safely and respectfully.

Karl Bartel Grasslands Land & Water Reserve is a park located in Kinmundy, Illinois, United States. This 80-acre reserve is adjacent to other public and private grasslands in Marion County and is protected in perpetuity as an Illinois Land & Water Reserve. The Illinois Audubon Society purchased the land in 2002 and is currently restoring it to grasslands. Four small wetlands have been created on the reserve, attracting shorebirds and waterfowl. Visit Karl Bartel Grasslands Land & Water Reserve to enjoy the beauty of nature and observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.