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Over-the-counter deer firearm permit sales begin on Tuesday, Oct. 20. Due to recent software updates beyond IDNR’s control, some vendors may have limited availability to print permits and licenses. IDNR is working closely with the license system provider to quickly address the issue for those vendors. To locate unaffected vendors, use the agent locator at https://www.exploremoreil.com/agentlocator.

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

​Accessibility at Franklin Creek:

  • Parking - The park office has a gravel parking lot.

  • Restrooms - Accessible flush toilets are available in the park office, and accessible vault toilets are available next to Sunday's Picnic Shelter in the Mill Springs Day Use Area. 

  • Fishing - From the Sunday's Picnic Shelter in the Mill Springs Day Use Area, a wheelchair-accessible fishing pier at Mill Pond can be accessed via a concrete path. 

  • Picnicking - The Sunday's Picnic Shelter in the Mill Springs Day Use Area has accessible picnic tables and grills. 

  • Trails - The Mill Springs Trail is a concrete, wheelchair-accessible nature trail for 3/10 mile and ends at the Mill Spring. The final 150' of the trail is a wooden boardwalk in need of repair and would not be suitable for wheelchairs.

  • Visitor Center - Franklin Creek State Natural Area's Grist Mill serves as the site's visitor center. It contains interpretive displays and a small gift shop. The parking area for the Grist Mill has a concrete base. A wooden ramp leads to the front door. An elevator provides access to all 3 floors of the building. The first floor has 2 wheelchair-accessible restrooms, and the second floor has 1 wheelchair-accessible restroom.

  • Service animals are welcome in the park.