State: Illinois
Address 1: 19721 N. US 24
City: Canton
Zip: 61520
Phone: 309-647-9184
Open: Open all year
Open all Year: Yes
Camp URL: http://dnr.state.il.us/lands/Landmgt/parks/r1/rice.htm
Full Hook: Yes
Providing a stop over area for migrating waterfowl, Rice Lake and the surrounding areas provide an excellent opportunity for wildlife observation. Because of an extensive habitat management program, this backwater wetland area is used by thousands of ducks and geese as they move through central Illinois during the changing seasons. Visitors also may encounter one of several threatened or endangered plant and animal species such as the American bald eagle, which uses the bottomland timber for roosting. Fishing is a favorite pastime at the area with catches of largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, crappie, channel catfish, bullhead buffalo and carp. However, with seasonal fluctuations of the water levels, fishing may be limited during certain times of the year. Duck hunting and archery deer hunting also provide opportunities for the outdoor sportsman.
Picnicking
For a break from fishing or a long nature walk, visitors can take advantage of a shady picnic area featuring tables, drinking water and restrooms.
Camping
If you have time for an overnight stay, tent and trailer camping areas are available. Thirty-two of the sites are graveled and have electricity hookups. Two are paved for handicapped access.
Fishing
Many Illinois anglers list Rice Lake as one of the best lakes in the area for its large variety of game fish. Fifteen miles of shoreline provide plenty of space, or bring your boat and try your luck offshore. A paved boat ramp is located at the site office. From Oct. 1 to April 1, boat traffic is limited to authorized boats only. This helps limit the disturbance of migrating waterfowl and endangered species using the area.
Picnicking
For a break from fishing or a long nature walk, visitors can take advantage of a shady picnic area featuring tables, drinking water and restrooms.
Camping
If you have time for an overnight stay, tent and trailer camping areas are available. Thirty-two of the sites are graveled and have electricity hookups. Two are paved for handicapped access.
Fishing
Many Illinois anglers list Rice Lake as one of the best lakes in the area for its large variety of game fish. Fifteen miles of shoreline provide plenty of space, or bring your boat and try your luck offshore. A paved boat ramp is located at the site office. From Oct. 1 to April 1, boat traffic is limited to authorized boats only. This helps limit the disturbance of migrating waterfowl and endangered species using the area.
Hunting
During waterfowl hunting season, Rice Lake is popular with sportsmen, the area is open for hunting, and there is a daily draw for walk-in hunters. Because of its wetland acreage and river backwater, this area is a hunters paradise. Archery deer hunting also is available.
