Experience Illinois' backwater heritage

Photo courtesy of Nancy Resetich.

The refuge is open to the public everyday for canoeing, kayaking, walking, and nature viewing. The refuge entrance, located two miles south of the Village of Hennepin, is off of Route 26 via Hennepin Farms Road.

Visitors may climb the 30-foot Nolan Observation Tower for a sweeping vista of the lakes and their environs. This is an ideal location for viewing the fall and spring waterfowl migrations.

A ramp and dock at the south end of the lakes is available for boaters, canoeists, and kayakers. No boat rentals are available.

Since 2004, fishing has been open to the public on Fridays and Saturdays and to fishing club members every day during the season. In 2009, fishing access closed until further notice, while the lakes undergo rehabilitation.

A half-mile chipped trail meanders along the bluff, bringing hikers through the largest identified seep along the Illinois River. The Dore Seep is protected as an Illinois Nature Preserve in recognition of its rare and important habitat.

Free parking is available at two small lots, one near the observation tower and the other adjacent to the boat ramp. There are porta-potties near the boat ramp lot.

Location and directions:

Map to Dixon Waterfowl Refuge

Driving Directions on Google Maps (enter a starting address in "A" to get directions; switch to "Satellite" view to see the lakes from Google's aerial view)

The Dixon Waterfowl Refuge is also proud to be listed as a regional destination on the Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway