Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge

National wildlife refuges offer us all a chance to unplug from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with our natural surroundings. Discover new places to hunt, fish, take pictures, watch wildlife, walk, cross-country ski and snowshoe. Enjoy spending time outdoors alone or with friends and family.

Refuge Office

Currently located within the Lost Valley Visitor Center, owned and managed by McHenry County Conservation District

Driving Directions

Three areas are currently open to the public to enjoy. 

Near Genoa City, Wisconsin

There is an 86 acre tract 1/2 mile north of Genoa City on the west side of County Highway H. Look for the brown and white Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge sign. Turn in at the sign and park in the parking area. 

Between Hebron and Woodstock, Illinois

This 60 acre tract is located just southwest of the intersection of State Route 47 and Thayer Road. Look for a parking area and kiosk on the west side of State Route 47, approximately 0.4 miles south of the intersection of State Route 47 and Thayer Road. After enjoying your time at the refuge be safe when pulling out of the parking lot.

Richmond, Illinois

This property is a 11 acre tract located west of the intersection of Hunter Drive and Hwy 12 in Richmond, Illinois. There is no vehicle parking available at this site. The easiest way to access this location is from the McHenry County Prairie Trail. This property serves as a great resting place for those hiking and biking the trail or simply looking for a place to stop and enjoy the scenery or have a picnic. 

Fees

There is no charge to visit.

Restrooms

There are no restrooms available.

Points of Interest

Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge features restored prairies, oak savannas, forests, wetlands and creek side habitats. Look for nesting wood ducks, migrating monarchs and wintering bald eagles throughout the area. The mix of different habitats provide food and shelter for a variety of plants and animals.

Refuge lands are open during daylight hours all year. Come back to explore again and again.

What To Do

If you have 15-minutes:

• Browse the kiosk information, and take a short walk through the grassland or oak savanna at any of the locations. Try to spot a few birds or other animals.

If you have one hour:

• Take a longer walk on the hiking trail at the Turner Tract to explore and experience the woods and prairie and all they have to offer. You may see many types of birds and other wildlife.

If you have half a day or more:

• Plan a visit to the Perrisone / Schaid Tract to step off trail and explore what Nippersink Creek has to offer in wildlife and photography opportunities. During the proper season, plan a visit to hunt or fish areas on the refuge open to those activities or simply put on your hiking shoes or ride a bike and catch the sights and sounds while eating lunch at the Blackmon Tract.

Know Before You Go

Wear appropriate footwear and dress for the weather. Consider bringing water, food, binoculars, field guides, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and anything else that might make the outdoor experience more enjoyable.

Visitor Tips

Plan your trip based on what you would like to see. If you want to see migratory birds, come in the spring or fall. If you want to see turkeys, woodpeckers or other resident wildlife, the best time to visit is late spring, summer or early fall. Dawn and dusk are the best times of the day to view most wildlife. Remember though, the refuge is only open 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes after sunset.