Hunters in southern Illinois enjoy a rich tradition of hunting on public lands. Each year thousands of hunters from across the nation are attracted to Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge to hunt an exceptionally diverse list of species, including trophy bucks, turkeys, small game and waterfowl. In addition to active habitat management, farmers share-crop part of the refuge land, leaving a percentage of the crop in the field for wildlife, which provides excellent hunting opportunities. The refuge hosts special-permitted deer and turkey hunts, which include opportunities for hunters with disabilities and youth. These hunts are well known for their high success rates. The refuge has a rich history in waterfowl hunting and is best known for its abundant waterfowl hunting opportunities along the shorelines of Crab Orchard Lake. While the species listed above constitute the primary drawing card for hunters, the refuge also abounds with a variety of game species, such as dove, squirrel and rabbit, that are open to hunting.
Crab Orchard Hunting Regulations
Restricted Area Special Hunts
Everyone who hunts in the restricted area should review the UXO Poster before their hunt. Before Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge was established, the restricted area was home to the Illinois Ordinance Plant which employed nearly 10,000 workers to support the war efforts during WWII. Today, the restricted area is home to numerous flora and fauna species. To stay safe during your hunt, follow the 3 R's of UXO Safety: Recognize, Retreat and Report.
Youth Firearm Deer and ADA Accessible Firearm Deer Hunting
November 21-23, 2025
Restricted Area Hunt
Shotgun Restricted Area Hunt Map and Regulations
Permits are administered through IDNR. Hunters are required to check in at the Visitor Center prior to hunting for their area assignments.
Firearm Deer
Season 1: November 21-23, 2025
Season 2: December 4-6, 2025
Shotgun Restricted Area Hunt Map and Regulations
Permits are administered through IDNR. Hunters are required to check in at the Visitor Center prior to hunting.
Muzzleloader Deer
December 12-14, 2025
Muzzleloader Restricted Area Hunt Map and Regulations
Williamson County Muzzleloader permits are required.
Youth Turkey Firearm and Spring Turkey Firearm
March 28-29, 2026
April 4-5, 2026
Permits are administered through IDNR. Hunters are required to check in at the Visitor Center prior to hunting. Approved non-toxic shot is required for turkey hunting. No Fall Season.
Youth Waterfowl
December 20, 2025
This is a controlled hunt in the Hampton Unit. Hunters are required to check in prior to hunting.
Teal, Duck, and Geese
December 24, 2025 - January 31, 2026
This hunt is in the Hampton Unit only Wednesday through Sunday beginning December 24, 2025. Motorized boats are prohibited.
Archery Deer
October 1 - November 14, 2025
December 9 - January 18, 2026
Archery Deer Restricted Area Hunt Map and Regulations
Hunters are required to check in at the self-check stations prior to hunting within the Special Hunt Area. Scouting is September 30, 2025.
Open Area Hunts
All open area hunts follow the Illinois state season with state bag limits. See the Illinois Digest of Hunting Regulations for specific dates at the . No check in is required. Open area hunts include:
Deer
- Archery - Season is closed during 1st and 2nd Firearm deer season.
- Youth Deer Firearm
- Seasons 1 and 2 Firearm
- Muzzleloader Deer
Turkey
- Archery
- Spring and Fall Shotgun - approved non-toxic shot is required for shot shells.
- Youth - approved non-toxic shot is required for shot shells.
Teal, Duck, Geese and Youth Waterfowl
Waterfowl hunting blinds must be a minimum of 200 yards (180 meter) apart.
Dove, Quail, Crow
Approved non-toxic shot required for shot shells.
Rabbits, Squirrel, Bobcat, Coyote
Approved non-toxic sot required for shot shells. We prohibit the use of rifles or handguns with ammunition larger then .22 caliber rimfire, except the use of black powder firearms up to and including .40 caliber.
