State: Illinois
Address 1: 647 N State HWY 100
City: Astoria
Zip: 61501
Phone: 309.759.4484
Open: Open all year
Open all Year: Yes
Camp URL: http://dnr.state.il.us/lands/Landmgt/PARKS/R1/ANDERSON.HTM
Full Hook: Yes
Anderson Lake is a floodplain lake that frequently receives overflow waters from the Illinois River. The lake has 1,134 surface acres with a maximum depth of six feet and an average depth of four feet. Carlson Lake is a waterfowl management area of 230 surface acres, with a maximum depth of five feet and an average depth of three feet. This area is drained in early summer, planted to feed duck and flooded in the fall to attract waterfowl to the area.
The area is a picturesque bottomland setting with timber species dominated by silver maple, cottonwood and willow. Plant growth is lush and the timber tends to be tall. A variety of waterfowl abounds in the area. For bird enthusiasts, large numbers of bald eagles can be seen in the winter months and white pelicans viewed during the spring on their migration north.
Picnicking
The site has several picnic areas, with two shelters, tables and drinking water.
Camping
The Class C campgrounds are on the west bank of the lake and provide for both tents and trailers. A sanitary dump station is also available.
Fishing
Crappie, bluegill, bullhead, bass and channel cat fishing is consistently good in early and late spring. Ice fishing for crappie and bluegill is also popular.
Boating
The area provides boat docks and two public boat ramps.
Hunting
Waterfowl populations consist chiefly of mallard and wood duck. The area provides blind sites for waterfowl hunting in the fall months. Upland game consisting of rabbit, quail and squirrel is also open to hunting. Dove hunting is available on agricultural fields that are planted in sunflowers and wheat if river levels permit. Deer may be taken by bow and arrow. Check with the site superintendent for specific times and dates. Hunter Fact Sheet
