Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge Wilderness Area

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge Wilderness Area is a 4,387-acre federally protected wilderness in southern Illinois, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The area preserves primitive backcountry where motorized travel and mechanized transport are prohibited, offering visitors a true non-motorized wilderness experience.

Hiking and backpacking are the primary ways to explore this landscape. The refuge wilderness is accessible to those seeking solitude and backcountry travel on foot. As a designated Wilderness Area, it operates under strict regulations: no roads, no motors, no mountain bikes or other mechanized equipment. Visitors must practice Leave No Trace principles—pack out what you pack in, camp responsibly, and minimize impact on the land.

Access and season depend on refuge conditions and weather. Spring through fall typically offers the most reliable conditions for backpacking and hiking. Before planning a trip, contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to confirm current access routes, camping regulations, and any seasonal closures or restrictions that may apply to this protected area.