By Brandon Robinson
Located in the rural landscape of Clayton, Illinois lies a hunter’s paradise.
The pace of a city is thrilling, but a quieter mode of vacation can be just as satisfying! For hunters looking to travel this fall, a hunting lodge is the perfect choice for your stay.
Opulence Vacation Rentals has the
Buckhorn Barndo & Nature Retreat near Siloam Springs—a blend of nature and comfort that’s ideal for a hunters retreat. However, this cozy stay is a gamechanger for family getaways as well.
Now, speaking of relaxed, life can be quite hectic these days. (Especially with the ever-growing list of demands to be plugged into the digital world 24/7).
But nestled in the bush of Clayton is a private solace away from the city’s fanfare.
Hunters will love this lodge for its proximity to wildlife, but families will love it for its cozy setting. With its rustic charm and array of amenities, the Buckhorn Barndo is a heavenly stay for anyone seeking moments of retreat, recharge, or adventure.
The key highlights of this space include:
Exploring a new place can be intimidating (especially when you consider how vast the Midwest is). But Clayton is the perfect size for wandering!
Clayton is a small village located in Adams County in the western part of Illinois. From its most recent census, it has a population of 624 residents and an agrarian-based economy. Most notably known for its close-knit community, it has a mix of historic buildings and local businesses, giving the town its distinct Midwestern charm.
The quaint village offers a small-town atmosphere appealing to most looking for a quieter, more relaxed vacation.
FIREARM DEER SEASON
If you’re a hunter exploring Illinois for firearm deer season, it’s important to remain abreast of the state’s policies and updates regarding the recreational sport.
Firearm deer season is the designated period during which hunters are allowed to use firearms to hunt deer. It’s a key part of deer management and hunting traditions in many states, including Illinois.
For llinois:
First Firearm Deer Season
November 22, 23 & 24, 2024
Second Firearm Deer Season
December 5, 6, 7 & 8, 2024
Muzzleloader-Only Deer Season
December 13, 14 & 15, 2024 - Hunters may also use a muzzleloader permit with a muzzleloading rifle during Second Firearm Season December 5 - 8, 2024
For more information on Illinois’ “Deer Firearm and Muzzleloader Season”, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website HERE.
For hunters traveling to Illinois, there are several public hunting areas located near Clayton.
Location: 938 County Rd 3003 E, Clayton, IL 62324 (Near Mount Sterling, about 15 miles southeast of Clayton)
Siloam Springs State Park offers hunting, fishing, camping, boating, picnicking, hiking or bird watching. The park is surrounded by forested gullies and flora of all types.
Siloam offers hunting opportunities upon request at the State Park, Buckhorn Unit, and Fall Creek Unit. Please contact the site office prior to your visit for further assistance.
Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area
Location: 10149 Co Rd 11, Chandlerville, IL 62627 (Approximately 30 miles southeast of Clayton, near Petersburg)
JEPC features hunting for white-tailed deer, wild turkey and mourning dove, as well as upland species (pheasant, quail, woodcock, snipe and rabbit), furbearers (raccoon, opossum, red fox, gray fox, striped skunk and coyote) and squirrels.
Season dates, hours, permit requirements and other regulations are available through the
Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
All hunters should check Online for hunter registration and obtain a windshield card.
Specific species rules can be found HERE.
Randolph County State Recreation Area
Location: 4301 S. Lake Drive, Chester, IL 62233 (About 50 miles south of Clayton)
Randolph County State Recreation Area is a mecca for outdoor recreational activities. Fishing, hiking, picnicking, boating, hunting and camping are just a few choices at the 1101-acre site.
Squirrel hunters will find plenty of grey and fox squirrels which can be hunted with shotgun or bow. Dove, deer, rabbit, quail and woodcock are popular game species in season. Hunters must check in at the park office for a hunter information, map and regulations.
RECREATION & LEISURE
Location: 938 County Rd 3003 E, Clayton, IL 62324
The beautifully wooded terrain, sparkling lake and carefully maintained facilities make this 3323-acre site one of the most beautiful parks in Illinois.
It's an ideal setting for outdoor visits, whether your interest is hunting, fishing, camping, boating, picnicking, hiking or bird watching. The park is surrounded by forested gullies and scenic crests alive with wild roses, black-eyed Susans, white false indigo, and snapdragons.
Location: 1160 750E Street, Mt. Sterling, IL 62353 (1.5 miles from Mt. Sterling on Route 99 north)
Mt. Sterling Lake offers fishing, camping, a boat ramp for kayaking and canoeing, and several other outdoor amenities and activities.
The Lake is open April 1st- December 1st.
For more information on usage fees, visit Mt. Sterling Lake’s website HERE.
Location: 1601 Maine Street, Quincy, IL 62301
Telling Quincy's Stories, Past, Present and Future
The Quincy Museum offers a diverse range of services to meet the cultural interests of its residents.
Whether you’re looking to tour a restored historic home, explore local history, or learn more about the historical impact of Native Americans, the Quincy Museum is your destination!
The Quincy Museum is open Wednesday-Sunday, 1p-4:30p. Call ahead prior to visiting.
RESTAURANTS & DINING
Location: 113 W Main St, Mt Sterling, IL 62353(approximately 15 miles southeast of Clayton, IL)
Brews Coffeehouse is your locally, family-owned coffee shop and café.
Lunch and Dinner
Location: 115 East Main Street Mt. Sterling, Illinois 62353 (approximately 15 miles southeast of Clayton, IL)
Hagel is a historic name in downtown Mt. Sterling. Brothers Joseph and William Hagel constructed the building as a furniture store in 1891.
Now, Hagel 1891 is a casual restaurant blending 1890s architecture with contemporary American cuisine. Their menu features classic American food with a modern, flavorful twist.
They also offer a wide selection of California and local wines, premium liquors, and draft and bottled beers.
Bars and Nightlife
Location: 111 N Capitol Ave, Mt Sterling, IL 62353 (approximately 15 miles southeast of Clayton, IL)
Established in 1953, the Sportsman's Tavern is a beloved local bar celebrated for its rich history, community involvement, and lively atmosphere.
Enjoy the specialty brews and standard American fare of this Midwestern gem.
With several spots to visit and enjoy, be sure to follow our Clayton, IL trip guide to make the most of your Midwestern stay.
Hunting season lodging is better with our trip guide there to assist you along all your bucolic adventures. Happy Trails!
LOVE WHAT YOU READ?
Brandon Robinson is an enthusiastic blogger based in Statesboro, GA, juggling multiple roles with flair.
By day, he serves as a Secretary to Directors at the Bulloch County Board of Education.
With a Bachelor’s of Arts in Economics and a minor in Philosophy from Emory University, Brandon is passionate about storytelling and connecting with people. When he’s not immersed in work or writing, he loves to explore new destinations and discover hidden gems in the vacation rental scene.
