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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 13h

Discover the remarkable Rock Cut State Park in Winnebago County.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

Learn about the great camping at Rock Cut State Park in Winnebago County.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

Rock Cut is your ultimate destination for adventure year-round. Enjoy fishing, hiking, biking, and camping, plus exciting winter activities like ice fishing and cross-country skiing. Take advantage of concession rentals for paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, and fishing boats.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

When at Rock Cut State Park don’t forget to slow down and discover the wonderful wildlife that calls the park home! From deer and foxes to beavers, raccoons, and a variety of squirrels, there’s always something amazing to spot.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

Did you know that a railroad helped to give Rock Cut State Park its name? During construction in 1859, crews blasted through a rock outcrop to make way for the rail line. The cut they left behind became the park’s name. (1/2)

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

Rock Cut State Park, spanning 3,254 acres in Winnebago County, is the largest state park in northern Illinois. Watch our stunning video to learn about the park! www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkZI...

youtube.com

Rock Cut State Park Spotlight

YouTube video by Illinois DNR

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 27/09/2026

Beall Woods State Park’s 60th anniversary celebration was a great success! We appreciate everyone who joined us and helped make the day so special.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

IDNR is highlighting Illinois’ beautiful and unique state parks in a monthly social media feature, “Spotlight on Illinois State Parks.” This month, we’re featuring Rock Cut State Park in Winnebago County.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

The trap range at Jim Edgar Panther Creek SFWA will be closed to the public from Friday, Sept. 25, through Sunday, Sept. 27, to accommodate a scheduled wingshooting clinic. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to a successful event.

Sign for Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish & Wildlife Area

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

Illinois resident and non-resident hunters can purchase fall turkey shotgun permits from a licensed vendor on a first-come, first-served basis until quotas have been met for a particular county or until the close of the season on Nov. 1. Learn more at huntillinois.org.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 20/09/2026

Don't miss the Hispanic Heritage Festival on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Illinois State Museum in Springfield. Enjoy delicious food, vibrant culture, and traditions at this free community event.

Poster for the Hispanic Heritage Festival

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

Shelbyville State Fish and Wildlife Area will hold its 2026 trapper permit drawing on Oct. 10, at 9 a.m. at the Shelbyville SFWA office (562 State Hwy 121, Bethany, IL 61914). For inquiries, please contact 217-665-3112.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

IDNR has confirmed multiple sightings of a mountain lion in Union and Jackson counties in southern Illinois. Anyone who encounters the animal should leave it alone and report the sighting to wildlife biologists: wildlifeillinois.org/report-sightin…

wildlifeillinois.org

Report Large Carnivore Sightings | Wildlife Illinois

Black bears, gray wolves, and mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas) were once common in the Midwest.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

The third public duck and goose hunting area lottery is open statewide Sept. 16-28. Go online for an application here: dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/waterfowl/…

A person in camouflage clothing is in a duck blind overlooking a body of water. They are holding a duck call to their mouth.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

Enjoy this video of a blue heron hunting for fish at Rock Cut’s Pierce Lake in Winnebago County!

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 12/09/2026

Ready for your next adventure? Illinois State Parks are full of amazing wildlife for you to see! Start planning your visit here: dnr.illinois.gov/parks.html

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 07/09/2026

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will be closed Monday, Sept. 7, in observance of Labor Day.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 06/09/2026

IDNR is hiring! Consider a rewarding career at an Illinois state park. Positions are currently available for park staff at numerous locations around the state. View all of our current job openings online: bit.ly/3SHCAUB

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 05/09/2026

As the 2026 state fair season comes to a close this weekend, we want to say thank you to everyone who visited IDNR in Conservation World during the Illinois State Fair in August and at the Du Quoin State Fair, which is underway now and closes on Labor Day. Thanks for visiting!

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

Prioritize safety on the water this Labor Day weekend by wearing a life jacket and remaining sober while operating a boat. Wishing everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday. dnr.illinois.gov/safety/boatingsafe…

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

Did you know anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1980, is required to complete a hunter safety education certification? Check out this reel to learn all about IDNR hunter education programs! Get more info here: dnr.illinois.gov/safety.htm

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

It's time for Giant City State Park's 12 mile red cedar hiking trail challenge! Hike the rugged backpacking trail and take selfies at 10 locations along the route. Bring your pictures to the visitor center to receive an official Red Cedar patch.

Text describes a 12-mile backpacking trail challenge available throughout September, offering a new patch upon completion. Participants are advised to bring insect spray and snacks. Contact information for the Giant City Visitors Center is provided 618-457-4836.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

Did you catch Thursday night’s spectacular near total lunar eclipse? Check out our video of the earth moving between the sun and the full moon. About 96% of the moon’s surface was covered, and it was cast in a deep red hue.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 29/08/2026

Registration is open for the Oak Ridge Sportsman’s Club Hunters Wingshooting Clinic in Mackinaw, IL on Oct. 10-11! These clinics are designed to enhance the wingshooting skills of hunters through realistic, field-based training. Reserve your spot today: bit.ly/4gqTeAJ

A person receives guidance on holding a shotgun from another individual

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 28/08/2026

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is pleased to welcome Jim Montgomery, who will assume leadership of the agency on Monday, Aug. 31. Learn more here: gov-pritzker-newsroom.prezly.com/go…

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 28/08/2026

Join us at the 2026 Du Quoin State Fair Aug. 28-Sept. 7! Conservation Village, located near the Exhibition Building, is open 4-8 p.m. weeknights and noon to 8 p.m. weekends. To learn more, visit bit.ly/4giGX1m.

A group of kids fishing at an indoor pool with rods.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 25/08/2026

The Pullman State Historic Site in Chicago will host a Wildwood Garden Party from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29. Inspired by the historic Wildwood Club, a 19th-century social club. Learn more and register here: bit.ly/45H7qzF

eventbrite.com

Wildwood Garden Party

Enjoy 1890s-inspired leisure, lunch, and learning on the Pullman State Historic Site grounds

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 23/08/2026

It’s the last day of the 2026 Illinois State Fair! Stop by Conservation World between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. and grab your favorite fair treats before the fun ends.

A group of people walking along a path in Conservation World.

A group of people is gathered outside a structure labeled "Butterfly House" with butterflies and plants depicted on the sign.

A group of people are at a BB gun range.

A group of people ride colorful chairlifts above a fairground at the Illinois State Fair.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 23/08/2026

This weekend is your last chance to see the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show in Conservation World at the 2026 Illinois State Fair. Catch it at noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6 p.m.

Two individuals wearing red plaid shirts and jeans are log rolling on water in front of a red trailer.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 21/08/2026

Do you have a question for a biologist? Do you have an animal photo that you’d like identified? Stop by the Wildlife Tent in Conservation World during the Illinois State Fair! We are open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Aug. 23.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

Come say hi to Smokey Bear! Smokey stops by the Forestry Tent in Conservation World every day at 11:15 a.m. and 4:15 p.m. during the Illinois State Fair.

Smokey Bear with Woodsy and Norman at the State Fair.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 18/08/2026

Heading to the 2026 Illinois State Fair? Come say hi at Conservation World and try out the free archery range! We’re open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. until Aug. 23

Visitor aims a red bow while instructor stands nearby, assisting.

A group of people practicing archery under a tent.

People are gathered under a white tent at a fairground, participating in an archery activity.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 17/08/2026

Heading to the 2026 Illinois State Fair? Don’t miss out on the fun at Conservation World! Enjoy archery and the BB gun range, chat with friendly IDNR biologists and Illinois Conservation Police officers. Plus, you can grab your hunting and fishing licenses. See you there!

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 16/08/2026

Don't miss the fun at Conservation World during the 2026 Illinois State Fair! Youth clinics are held daily at 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m., and 4:30 p.m. Visitors can also fish from the dock at the IDNR lower pond!

Two people holding fishing rods and displaying fish.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 15/08/2026

IDNR will host sensory hours at Conservation World from 8:30-10am Aug. 15 and Aug. 18. during the State Fair, offering visitors an opportunity to explore in a quieter, more calming environment for children and adults with sensory processing sensitivities. bit.ly/3ToZWOJ

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 14/08/2026

IDNR reminds upland game hunters that applications are now being accepted for the 2026 free upland game hunting permit lottery and the controlled pheasant hunting program. These programs provide opportunities to hunt at select state sites across Illinoisl. Learn more here: bit.ly/3S6NS4q

A colorful pheasant with vibrant plumage stands in a natural grassy and bushy area.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 12/08/2026

Community members can learn about volunteer opportunities at the Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site in Springfield during a volunteer open house from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20. Learn more here: bit.ly/3So5QiZ

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 11/08/2026

Registration is open for the Jim Edgar Panther Creek SFWA Hunters Wingshooting Clinic in Chandlerville, IL, happening on Sept. 26-27. These clinics are designed to enhance the wingshooting skills of hunters. Register here: bit.ly/3SsERTp

Two people are clay shooting in an outdoor setting. One is aiming a shotgun, assisted by the other. A clay pigeon thrower with orange targets is nearby.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 07/08/2026

When visiting the 2026 Illinois State Fair stop by Conservation World for our daily Raptor Basics show! The World Bird Sanctuary will present daily Raptor Basics shows in the amphitheater, featuring an adult bald eagle, other birds of prey, and raptor flight demonstrations.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 05/08/2026

IDNR will host sensory hours at Conservation World again this year at the 2026 Illinois State Fair. Special sensory-friendly hours are scheduled for 8:30-10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 and Tuesday, Aug. 18. bit.ly/3ToZWOJ

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

We can’t wait to see you at the 2026 Illinois State Fair! Conservation World is returning with a variety of themed displays and activities to celebrate 100 years of U.S. Route 66. Come join the fun from Aug. 13–23 and create some fun fair memories with us.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 31/07/2026

Planning ahead for Halloween? Wayne Fitzgerrell offers an exciting Trick or Treat event in October that attracts over 10,000 guests. Visitors go all out decorating their campsites and have a great time trick-or-treating. Reserve your campsite here: bit.ly/3RQZs3u

A lively outdoor festival scene with people walking along a tree-lined path. Booths with purple canopies are set up on one side, and a colorful inflatable slide is visible on the other.

A Halloween-themed outdoor setup in a park features various decorations, including several figures dressed in spooky costumes, such as witches and skeletons. There's an American flag prominently displayed to the left. A tent is visible in the background, and pumpkins are scattered throughout the scene. Trees with green foliage surround the area.

A nighttime outdoor event featuring a crowd of people gathered on grass. In the foreground, individuals are wearing costumes, including one dressed as Smokey Bear.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 30/07/2026

Wildlife enthusiasts will love visiting Wayne Fitzgerrell SRA in Franklin and Jefferson counties! Visitors can spot white-tailed deer, turkeys, pheasants, ospreys, hawks, eagles, blue herons, and so much more. Bring your camera and get ready to make some fantastic memories.

A deer walks on a grassy area near a path and trees in a park. A sign reads "Lake View Sites 48-67 Online Reservations Only Camp Post Site 59."

A wide, open field with two turkeys in the center. In the background, there's a dense line of lush green trees under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

A black and tan dog relaxes on the seat of a white golf cart adorned with miniature American and America 250 flags. The background shows an RV and camping gear.

A group of Gesse swim on Rend Lake with a distant tree-lined shore under a clear sky.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 30/07/2026

Rend Lake is a can’t miss fishing destination! The site has four boat ramps, three are open to the public and free of charge, and one is in the campground and is specifically for registered campers. Visit Wayne Fitzgerrell State Reaction Area to enjoy all Rend Lake offers.

A flock of birds is swimming on Rend Lake under a clear blue sky. In the distance, there is a tree-lined shoreline.

A boat labeled "Illinois Conservation Police" is mounted on a trailer in a parking area. Two individuals in uniform, one standing on the boat and the other beside it, are performing maintenance tasks.

Three individuals stand on a small motorboat on a calm Rend Lake.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 29/07/2026

Discover why Rend Lake is the ultimate destination for outdoor water recreation.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 29/07/2026

Explore the scenic 4.8-mile limestone bike trail at Wayne Fitzgerrell. The trail runs from the main entrance of the park through the shelters, office, campground and resort connecting to Rend Lake College.

Sign indicating a "Bike Trail," surrounded by lush green trees and vegetation.

A green sign in a wooded area displays a white bicycle icon above the words "Bike Route." Below is a white arrow pointing right.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 28/07/2026

Wayne Fitzgerrell has multiple camp sites that offer picturesque views of Rend Lake. The class A campground has 243 sites with electric services. Additionally, there are five shelters all with great views of the lake and four of them are reservable! bit.ly/3RQZs3u

A scenic view of a grassy park with tall trees, overlooking Rend Lake under a clear blue sky.

RV is parked in a serene, sunlit forest setting.

Wooden picnic shelter with several tables underneath. There's also a small building to the left. A sign in the foreground reads "Shelter 2" with additional details about reservations. A paved path winds through the area.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 27/07/2026

Wayne Fitzgerrell was first opened to the public in 1975. This 3,300-acre property sits on the banks of Rend Lake which was formed by the damming of the Big Muddy River and has nearly 19,000 acres. It provides flood control, water supply and recreation.

A scenic view of the lake with a grassy, tree-lined shoreline in the foreground and a partly cloudy blue sky.

Calm lake with a grassy shore in the foreground and trees lining the distant shore. A small jet ski is parked near the water's edge on the right side. The sky is clear with a few clouds.

RV is parked on a paved area surrounded by lush green trees and grass. A picnic table and bench are nearby, under the shade of the trees.

A small cabin with a blue roof is situated by a peaceful lakeside, surrounded by lush green trees. A rocky shoreline is in the foreground.

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 27/07/2026

Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area in Franklin and Jefferson counties is the ultimate destination for outdoor adventure in Southern Illinois. Watch our captivating video for a glimpse of everything this exceptional park has to offer! www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nbqygnc_TfU

youtube.com

Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area Spotlight

YouTube video by Illinois DNR

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 24/07/2026

The updated Illinois Wildlife Action Plan is here, guiding efforts to protect our native species and their habitats. This important plan is regularly updated to keep up with changing conditions and the latest research. Check out the newest revision bit.ly/4firptW

A serene rural landscape features rolling fields and a distant line of trees under a cloudy sky. In the foreground, tall grasses and yellow wildflowers add detail and contrast to the scene.

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