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Illinois DNR

@illinoisdnr.bsky.social
1.1K followers 196 following 462 posts

Official account of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. State parks, historic sites, wildlife, water, mines, education and more. #findyourselfoutdoors

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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 10/10/2026
Hello from IDNR’s Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area on Rend Lake, where thousands of families will descend in a few hours for the annual campground trick-or-treat event. If you’re coming, stop by the IDNR table and say hi!
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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 10/10/2026
Today is World Mental Health Day. Consider spending time outdoors at an Illinois state park. Whether it's a quiet walk through the woods, time by the water, or simply sitting and observing nature, our state parks offer spaces to disconnect and recharge. dnr.illinois.gov/parks.html
A person stands on a wooden observation deck surrounded by a lush, green forest. Sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a serene atmosphere.
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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 10/10/2026
It’s here! Youth firearm deer hunting season is open from Oct. 10-12. Wishing all our young hunters a fun, safe, and memorable weekend in the great outdoors. Good luck! dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/youth-deer…
A deer with antlers stands alert in a forest with tall trees and a mix of brown and gray trunks in the background.
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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 09/10/2026
The Springfield state historic sites and Illinois State Museum team had a wonderful time hosting 25 students from DuBois Elementary School at the Old State Capitol State Historic in partnership with Compass for Kids. Learn more about the program here: www.compassforkids.org
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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 07/10/2026
The 2026 Illinois fall trout fishing season will open Saturday, Oct. 17 at 60 ponds, lakes and streams throughout the state. Learn more here: www.illinois.gov/content/dam/...
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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 03/10/2026
Come experience the magic of the Candlelight Walk at Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, a popular kickoff to the fall festival season, on any of the nine nights it takes place, Oct. 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18.
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Illinois DNR @illinoisdnr.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
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
Today, Pierce Lake, named after Rep. William Pierce, covers much of the former railroad bed, although portions of the railroad grade are visible along Willow Creek below the spillway. (2/2)
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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.
A serene scene at Rock Cut State Park with a person in a kayak on calm water at sunset.  The image includes the Illinois Department of Natural Resources logo and the words "Rock Cut State Park Spotlight.
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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…
IDNR Director Jim Montgomery
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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!
Smokey Bear waves at a child. Text on the image reads, "Conservation World gates open at 10 A.M. daily." The Illinois Department of Natural Resources logo is visible in the corner.
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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
Sunflowers under a clear blue sky, featuring text about the Illinois State Fair's Conservation World sensory-friendly hours. Includes the logo of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
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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
Dana-Thomas House exterior
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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.
A close-up of an owl with a blurred person in the background. Text overlay reads: "Whoo's going to the fair? 2026 Illinois State Fair Aug. 13-23. Conservation World open daily 10 a.m. to 7 p.m." The logo of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is in the bottom left corner.
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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
A field of sunflowers under a clear blue sky with a logo of the Illinois State Fair at the top left. Text reads: "Conservation World Sensory-Friendly Hours." A logo of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is at the bottom right.
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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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