Sangamon River State Fish and Wildlife Area

This sprawling wildlife management area protects river bottoms, wetlands, and upland prairie along the Sangamon River. Primitive camping is allowed throughout most of the area, with the best spots found along the river terraces and in scattered oak groves. No facilities whatsoever — pack out everything and bring your own water. Popular with bow hunters in fall, but sees little traffic otherwise.

Access requires driving several miles on gravel management roads that can be rough after heavy rain. Some bottomland areas flood in spring. The area is closed during scheduled hunts, typically November through January. Check IDNR website for current closure dates before heading out.

Primitive river bottom camping in central Illinois