Explore Saline County State Fish and Wildlife Area: A Gem Near Equality

Saline County State Fish and Wildlife Area

Saline County State Fish and Wildlife Area Saline County State Fish and Wildlife Area is located in southeastern Illinois, near Equality. The site is comprised of 5,500 acres of strip mine lakes, timber, grasslands and agricultural fields. Former coal mining operations created a unique landscape of rolling hills and valleys. The site is located in what was once the center of the Saline Coal Field. Coal mining in the area dates back to 1840, when a shaft mine was opened, producing 200 tons of coal a day. At one time, Saline County was considered one of the top coal producing counties in the state. The last mine in Saline County closed in 1993, but coal mining in other nearby counties remains an important industry. Today, visitors to Saline County State Fish and Wildlife Area enjoy many outdoor activities including fishing, hiking, hunting, picnicking and camping.