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Attention hunters: Visit our FAQ page for information about the use of centerfire, single-shot rifles for deer hunting in Illinois. 

Governor JB Pritzker Illinois.gov Contact IDNR DNR A to Z

​Fishing

The Middle Fork River offers the angler opportunities for such species as smallmouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, crappie, channel catfish, walleye and bullhead. Access to the river is by footpaths at Kinney's Ford, Higginsville Bridge and Bunker Hill.

Hunting

Large populations of upland game make the Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area popular with many hunters. Generally, federal and Illinois game regulations regarding seasons, bag limits and huntable species apply in all parts of the park. However, special regulations apply to some species. All hunters must register before hunting the area. For site regulation information review the Site Hunting Information. 

Trails

There are 35 miles of marked scenic equestrian and cross-country skiing trails in the Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area, and 9 miles of designated hiking trails are available at nearby Kickapoo State Park. All marked trails are accessible from the parking lot near the office at 2400N, just off Road 900E. Equestrian Trail Map

Canoeing

Public parking and canoe access to the Middle Fork River is provided at two locations. The Kinney's Ford access is located in the northern section of the facility and may be reached by driving 0.5 mile west of the 2620N/900E intersection. The Bunker Hill canoe access may be reached by driving east on the facility's south access road located at 2250N/900E. The west entrance bridge at Kickapoo State Park provides a canoe take-out point for these access areas. Camping is prohibited along the river, except in designated campgrounds.

Picnicking

Small day-use areas are located near the campgrounds, office and canoe accesses, providing picnic tables and rustic sanitary facilities. Canoeists, hikers and anglers also may prefer to picnic along the river or trails. Properly dispose of all litter. Shelters cannot be reserved, they are available on a first come-first served basis.

Camping

The Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife area has Class C, D and equestrian camping facilities. Other classes of camping also are available at nearby Kickapoo State Park. The state park facilities are readily accessible from the Kickapoo canoe take-out point at the park's west entrance. Kickapoo is located 5 miles south of the Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area.

Wildlife Management Practices

The Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area has a planned wildlife program which includes a cropland lease agreement with local farmers. The program also emphasizes forestry practices compatible with good wildlife management.