Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge - Visitor Center - Marion, Illinois

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge - Visitor Center: A Gem in Southern Illinois

The Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge - Visitor Center, located at 8588 IL-148, Marion, IL 62959, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and tourists alike. With a phone number of 89973344 and a website at fws.gov, this wildlife refuge offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.

SPECIALTIES AND OFFERINGS

• Visitor center: Learn about the refuge's history, ecosystem, and wildlife through informative displays and exhibits.
• Hiking area: Explore the refuge's numerous hiking trails, which wind through diverse habitats and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Tourist attraction: The refuge is a popular destination for tourists, attracting visitors from across the region and beyond.
• Tourist information center: Staff members are available to provide visitors with information about the refuge and surrounding areas, as well as recommendations for activities and accommodations.

OTHER POINTS OF INTEREST

• Onsite services: The visitor center offers a range of services, including maps, guides, and educational programs.
• Wheelchair accessible entrance: The visitor center and hiking trails are wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the refuge's natural beauty.
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot: Visitors with disabilities can easily access the visitor center and hiking trails thanks to the refuge's wheelchair accessible parking lot.
• Good for kids: The refuge's family-friendly atmosphere and range of activities make it an ideal destination for families with children.

OVERWHELMINGLY POSITIVE REVIEWS

The Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge - Visitor Center has received an impressive 253 reviews on Google My Business, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Visitors consistently praise the refuge's stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and excellent visitor services.

One visitor remarked, "I visited during the total eclipse of the sun and appreciated being in nature during that phenomenal event. All employees were very nice and helpful. Also, it was sweet that the entrance fee was waived on that day." Another noted, "Beautiful place, massive in size, I just caught a few of the highlights." The refuge's vast size and beautiful lakefront sites make it a perfect destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature.

RECOMMENDATION

If you're looking for a unique and unforgettable outdoor experience, look no further than the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge - Visitor Center. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and excellent visitor services, this refuge is a true gem in southern Illinois.

To learn more about the refuge and plan your visit, be sure to check out their website at fws.gov or give them a call at 89973344. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.

👍 Reviews of Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge - Visitor Center

Yolanda A.

5/5

I visited during the total eclipse of the sun and appreciated being in nature during that phenomenal event. All employees were very nice and helpful. Also it was sweet that the entrance fee was waived on that day. We arrived in the early morning, which was very foggy. But in a few hours the fog had lifted and we had a wonderful view of the sky, and the eclipse.

bo M.

5/5

Beautiful place, massive in size i just caught a few of the highlights

Candice W.

5/5

So vast... beautiful lakefront sites. Fishing and hiking trails. I could probably spend all day out here. Only about 10-20 minutes from Carbondale, Herrin and Marion.

John T.

5/5

What a beautiful way to spend several hours walking in the wilderness. The trails have some marking but you still need to pay attention at junctions. Our 2 mile Rocky Bluff Trail ended with a 5 mile truck as we headed on part of the Wild Turkey Trail. Bring your hiking boots and some water and enjoy a day in nature.
We went back a year later and continue to be surprised. A new visitor center with a big display area in construction as well as good site maps. With the Senior National Pass admission is FREE. Or it is a 5.00 per car fee that is still very reasonable. Plenty of short (less than 1 mile) loop trails as well as longer trails.

Pennie N.

5/5

Great day trip! We will return. No goose poop and beautiful shower house nearby. Closes at 6pm. $2 a car for a day pass. Pay at the camp host office. Very nice.

Atti C.

4/5

Not a very long trail. But the path it's self is well kept with a nice small gravel.

There's repairs that need to be made to the benches, wildlife signs, and a water front cabin that's taped off due to damage.

kristin H.

5/5

Beautiful new building. Very helpful staff. Super friendly. Great place to visit. Very informative.

JB B.

5/5

Absolutely amazing area of beauty. Spectacular trails and lakes. The rock formations are breathtaking.