Find private land in Illinois
Discover the best private land in Illinois. Book private land for your next outdoor adventure - fishing, hunting, bird-watching and more!
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Explore private land in Illinois
River Fishing Experience
120 Acres at Kishwaukee River Waterfowl in Huntley, IL
Starting Price$50 / Guest
1 Day
1 Guest
Late Season Archery Whitetail Hunt: Nov 21st - Jan 15th
65 Acres at Camp 65 in Plymouth, IL
Starting Price$1,500 / Guest
5 Days
1 Guest
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History of outdoors and exploration in Illinois
The state's diverse landscape, from the Shawnee National Forest in the south to the bustling metropolis of Chicago in the north, has always offered a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Early settlers were drawn to Illinois for its fertile soil and abundant wildlife, making hunting and fishing integral parts of survival and culture. As time progressed, these activities evolved into recreational pastimes, with Illinoisans developing a deep appreciation for their natural surroundings. The introduction of the state park system in Illinois further underscored this love for outdoor recreation. In 1908, Fort Massac State Park became the first state park, marking a significant milestone in preserving nature for public enjoyment. Today, there are over 60 state parks scattered across Illinois offering hiking, camping, fishing, boating and more. Illinois also played a pivotal role in America's westward expansion. The city of Galena was once the busiest port between St. Louis and St. Paul during the 19th century due to its strategic location on the Mississippi River. This era saw an influx of explorers and adventurers passing through Illinois on their way to uncharted territories. Illinois is a larger agricultural state with $21.5B of ag production, and roughly 95.9% of the land privately owned by farmers and ranchers. The major crops are corn, soybeans, hogs, and some cow/calf production. When planning hunting trips to Illinois on private lands like farms & ranches, it's important to understand some key dates for farmers and ranchers. Ranchers in this region usually do their calving, brandings and vaccinations anywhere from February through June and will ship cattle in late fall. During these times, they are extremely busy and may be harder to communicate with. Farmers in Illinois will usually begin planting their corn in June and then will harvest their crops in October, depending on weather.
Popular outdoor activities in Illinois
Illinois offers a wealth of outdoor activities for the adventurous spirit. The state's rich wildlife offers an exciting hunting experience with deer, turkey, and waterfowl being the prime targets. Illinois is also home to some of the finest fishing locations in the country. The Illinois River, Lake Michigan, and numerous inland lakes are teeming with bass, catfish, walleye, and crappie. For those who prefer land-based adventures, Illinois boasts over 300 state parks and recreational areas. Starved Rock State Park is a popular choice with its stunning sandstone canyons and seasonal waterfalls. Hikers can explore miles of trails through lush forests or along rugged cliffs while bird watchers will be delighted by the variety of species that call these parks home. Camping enthusiasts aren't left out either. Whether you prefer tent camping or RVing, there are plenty of campgrounds offering amenities from basic to luxurious. Shawnee National Forest offers primitive camping experiences for those seeking solitude in nature. In summary, whether you're an avid hunter or angler, a hiker seeking breathtaking views or a camper looking for your next destination under the stars - Illinois' diverse landscapes offer something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Popular counties for outdoor activities in Illinois
One of the most popular counties for outdoor recreation is Jackson County, home to the Shawnee National Forest. This expansive forest provides opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. The Little Grand Canyon trail is a must-visit for hikers seeking breathtaking views and challenging terrains. For water enthusiasts, the Mississippi River in Rock Island County offers excellent fishing and boating experiences. McHenry County is another hotspot for outdoor activities in Illinois. It boasts over 30 conservation areas including Moraine Hills State Park where visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, and biking trails that wind through wetlands and prairies. In winter months, ice fishing and cross-country skiing become popular activities. Further south in Illinois lies Pike County, known as one of the nation's top whitetail deer hunting destinations. Its vast forests and agricultural lands provide an ideal habitat for these majestic creatures. Pike County also hosts several fishing tournaments throughout the year on its various lakes and rivers. Whether you're an avid hiker seeking challenging trails or an angler looking for your next big catch, Illinois' diverse counties offer a wide range of outdoor adventures sure to satisfy your adventurous spirit.
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Counties in Illinois
Species in Illinois
Activities in Illinois
Montana Hunting Units
Nebraska Hunting Units