Banner Marsh State Fish and Wildlife Area – Banner, IL
N 40° 32.374 W 089° 51.857
16T E 257425 N 4491589
Banner Marsh is a restored coal strip mine located along the Illinois River.
Waymark Code: WM3KEW
Location: Illinois, United States
Date Posted: 04/15/2008
Views: 68
Banner Marsh has over 200 water bodies on the 4,363 acres of freshwater marsh. There is also plenty of dry land that rises above the wetlands. It provides various outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, boating, dog training, picnicking, wildlife observation and photography.
Each of the three access roads has restrooms, sheltered picnic tables, and boat ramps. There is no drinking water available at any of the accesses. Remember to bring your own.
Camping is available at nearby Rice Lake Wildlife area.
Boat motors are restricted to less than 25 hp. Jet skis, water skiing, and swimming are prohibited. Rowboats, canoes, and kayaks are welcome.
Bird watching is very popular here. On a recent visit 35 wild Mute Swans were seen, some are breeding pairs. American White Pelicans are often spotted in the spring as they migrate north. A small flock was seen on the same visit.
There are a few short trails to access some of the small lakes, but there is plenty of undeveloped area that you can roam. In this Wildlife area, you do not have to stay on the trails. Several miles of roadway open and close depending upon ground conditions.
Hunting is very popular but special rules apply here. Contact the Rice Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area at (309) 647-9184. Dog training also requires a special permit. It is free and can be obtained at the Rice Lake Office.