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Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area  

Southern Region
R.R. 4, Box 242,
McLeansboro, IL 62859
618.773.4340

E-Mail

Site Map Camping Day Use
History Hand Trap Hunter Fact Sheet

Hamilton County State Fish and Wildlife Area, also known as Dolan Lake, is located about 8 miles southeast of McLeansboro off Route 14.

Dolan Lake is the main attraction of the park. The earthen dam was constructed in 1962 and the lake was filled shortly thereafter. The 75-acre lake has a shoreline of 3 miles and maximum depth of 18 feet. The lake contains largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, crappie, channel catfish and bullheads. Winter fishing is allowed when the ice is thick enough. A launching ramp and rental boat are available. Motors are limited to 10 hp.

History

The site was established at the urging of the McLeansboro Kiwanis club. In 1960 the state made its initial acquisition of 99 acres of land. Subsequent purchases have brought the total acreage to 1,683, of which 75 acres are water.

The site is one of gently rolling hills. Most of the hunting area is small open fields bordered by heavy fence rows, border plantings of warm season grasses, lespedeza, and pine trees with small patches of brush and timber. Food for the upland game is supplied by patch planting in the area.

Camping

Tent and trailer sites are available with electricity and sanitary dump stations and a shower house. Campers without reservations need to obtain a permit from the site personnel when they arrive at the area. Five cabins are located on scenic Dolan Lake across from a modern shower building. No cooking, pets, or smoking allowed in Cabin. Fire grill and table provided out side. Full size bed, two sets of bunk beds, table and chairs provided inside. Cabin has heat and a/c available. Bring your own bedding. There must be an adult or you must be 18 or older to stay in the cabin or camping areas. For reservations of the campsites or cabins, visit www.reserveamerica. com.

Day Use

There are large, shaded picnic areas with tables, outdoor stoves and drinking water. A concession stand is operated from April 1 to Oct. 31. For more information call site staff at (618) 773-4340. Horseback, hiking trails and playground equipment available.

Hand Trap

Hamilton County has a first come first serve manuel clay bird thrower trap area. The trap is open year round, for shotguns only. Pleases pick up all hulls and keep area clean. Please call the site for more information.



  • While groups of 25 or more are welcome and encouraged to use the park's facilities, they are required to register in advance with the site office to avoid crowding or scheduling conflicts.
  • At least one responsible adult must accompany each group of 15 minors.
  • Pets must be kept on leashes at all times.
  • Actions by nature can result in closed roads and other facilities. Please call ahead to the park office before you make your trip.
  • We hope you enjoy your stay. Remember, take only memories, leave only footprints.
  • For more information on tourism in Illinois, call the Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs' Bureau of Tourism at 1-800-2Connect.
  • Telecommunication Device for Deaf and Hearing Impaired Natural Resources Information (217) 782-9175 for TDD only Relay Number 800-526-0844.

Parks & Recreation

Illinois Dept.of Natural Resources
Office of Land Management
One Natural Resources Way
Springfield, IL 62702
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