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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. 

Picnicking

Five shelters are provided for group picnicking, while small areas with convenient parking for a family outing are scattered throughout Horseshoe Lake State Park. Two playgrounds are located within the park.

Fishing and Boating

Horseshoe Lake contains channel catfish, bass, crappie, bluegill, carp and buffalo. Boat fishing is allowed, except during waterfowl season. A 50-horsepower limit exists for all watercraft. Two boat ramps are available for public use.

Camping

Horseshoe Lake State Park accommodates 26 tent or trailer campsites. A sanitary dump station, pit toilets, and water hydrants are conveniently located. The campground is open from May 1 - Sept 30. Campers are allowed to stay 7 days in a 30 day period. We do not take reservations for camping.

Hunting

To accommodate waterfowl hunters, numerous public hunting blinds are located on the lake. Hunting is allowed only from these blinds. Dove hunting is allowed during the month of September on the peninsula. Controlled pheasant hunting is available. Check with the park office for further hunting regulations. Horseshoe Lake and nearby hunting areas at Horseshoe Lake/Corps (Chouteau Island) and Bohm Woods Nature Preserve can be found online: Site Hunting Information

Hiking

Four miles of hiking trails wander through the natural vegetation at Horseshoe Lake State Park.