Nature Encounter Center at Willow Lake Recreation Area

Whether you’re going camping for the weekend or taking the kids fishing, this 220-acre multi-use area offers plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities. Located six miles west of Woodbine, the Willow Lake Recreation Area is the headquarter’s office for the Harrison County Conservation Board. There is also a Nature Encounter Center with habitat displays and live animals.

A 27-acre lake has bluegill, redear sunfish, crappie, largemouth bass, and channel catfish, fishing jetties, boat ramp access, and swimming beach.  Only electric motors are allowed on the lake.  There are six miles of trails through prairies and woodlands.

The campground has electricity, central water, and a modern shower house. A playground is located nearby along with picnic shelters. There are rental cabins for those that want a “home away from home.” The camping cabins are strategically perched on a hill overlooking the lake, while the housekeeping cabins are nestled in a pine grove next to the lake that provides peace and quiet.

A large portion of this area is open to hunting.  Food plots planted by Harrison County Conservation enhance the habitat for many kinds of wildlife including deer, pheasants, quail, and waterfowl. The area is predominantly mixed native prairie with scattered woodlands. Small impoundments also provide wetland habitat. Hunting is not allowed in developed areas, including the headquarters area, campground, and near cabins.  Please use the main park road to access public hunting land. Parking areas are adjacent to the restroom/shower building in the campground.