Location: 10149 County Hwy 11, Chandlerville, IL 
Picnic Area: Yes
Shelter / Pavillion: Yes
Restrooms: Yes
Nature Features: Plants & Wildlife, Trails, Hiking, Camping
Water Features: Boating/ Boat Ramp, Fishing
One of Illinois’ largest public access areas, Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area (JEPC) in central Illinois is a mosaic of mature forest land, agricultural land, grassland and rare hill prairie that is home to a rich assortment of wildlife. The site totals 16,550 acres.
Sport fishing opportunities are available at Gridley Lake (25 acres), Prairie Lake (210 acres) and Drake Lake (35 acres). Several ponds within the site also have been renovated.
The site has 24 miles of mountain bike trails, a three-mile hiking/jogging trail, 26 miles of equestrian trails, and extensive camping opportunities, including the Prairie Lake campground with 84 campsites and nine cabins available, along with a dedicated equestrian campground with 51 electric campsites. Make campsite reservations at www.reserveamerica.com.
illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/JimEdgarPantherCreek
We’re interested in boating on the lake and are wondering if there is a swimming area as well. Thanks for any help you can give us!
Hi ReNae! We will ask around we don’t know for sure!