Dixon Waterfowl Refuge in Illinois State

Dixon Waterfowl Refuge

This natural area was recently restored in 2001 after the lakes and floodplains spent several decades completely drained.

Plan Around Dixon Waterfowl Refuge

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Dixon Waterfowl Refuge Details

This natural area was recently restored in 2001 after the lakes and floodplains spent several decades completely drained. It is now a 3,000-acre wildlife habitat with a diverse ecosystem of marshes, wetlands, savannahs, and prairies. You can wander around the boardwalks or climb up the 30-foot tall birding tower to see more than 270 birds that might fly by at any moment. In 2004, the refuge became a designated Important Bird Area of Illinois due to the rare sightings of threatened species that were spotted in the area. Due to the restoration, these creatures now had a safe place to live, feed, and breed.

Difficulty

Low

Distance

N/A

Estimated time

N/A

Region

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Nearby Parks Around Dixon Waterfowl Refuge

Compare nearby parks around Dixon Waterfowl Refuge when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

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Nearby Points of Interest Around Dixon Waterfowl Refuge

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Dixon Waterfowl Refuge while the map context is still fresh.

5.2 mi away

Hennepin Canal Parkway

This canal-turned-bike path was built in 1907 to connect the Illinois River with the Mississippi.

5.6 mi away

Illinois River Road

Catering to both nature lovers and history buffs, this 150-mile scenic byway has plenty of sights and attractions for all types of visitors.

15.9 mi away

Matthiessen State Park

Located a few miles south of Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen State Park, in Deer Park, Illinois, is situated on 1,700 acres and was established in 1943.

16.3 mi away

Cascade Falls

Out of all the waterfalls in Matthiessen State Park, this one has to be the most stunning.

16.4 mi away

Bluff Trail

This 2-mile loop through the heart of Matthiessen State Park is a moderate but fun trek with tons of exciting natural sights along the way.