Lake Shelbyville defines the camping landscape near Mode, Illinois, with over 11,000 acres of water creating diverse shoreline camping opportunities. The region sits at approximately 600 feet elevation with typically warm summers reaching into the 90s and moderate rainfall. Winter camping is limited as most campgrounds close after October, with only select sites remaining open year-round.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Coon Creek offers excellent fishing access with multiple water entry points. "Lake Shelbyville has everything: biking, hiking, a beach, fishing and the town has a small movie theater showing current movies for $4.00," notes Ronald B. Many sites have trails from campsites directly to the water.
Swimming options: The swimming areas vary across campgrounds. At Lone Point, campers can access the lake via small paths. "We had a small, narrow, and very steep path to a beach area that was great for exploring and building rock formations. We even caught the sunset on the beach that night," reports Melissa B.
Hiking trails: The 12-mile trail from Lone Point to Eagle Creek offers moderate to difficult hiking along the lakeshore. Michael M. explains, "The trail Chief Illini trailhead is located in the parking area and the trail is fairly well maintained during the regular campground open season."
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Camp Lakewood maintains clean amenities that receive consistent positive feedback. "Everything is super clean here, staff is friendly. There is laundry on site and the showers are some of the cleanest I've seen," shares Declan W.M.
Quieter camping sections: Some campgrounds offer more secluded areas for those seeking pet-friendly camping with fewer neighbors. At Opossum Creek, "If you don't care about full hook up, try for the sites 39 to 46 and 11 to 34 that offer more privacy. We were in spot 11 that is right next to the shower house, but faces away from it and your view is trees and the lake," advises Debra M.
Lake access: Many campers appreciate the direct water access. "There are 81 sites in total, 17 tent with electric, 17 full hook up and the remaining are electric RV sites. There are 6 water hydrants in the park that make it easy for all not water sites to fill up with their hose," notes Debra M. about Opossum Creek.
What You Should Know
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds close after Labor Day. Michael M. explains, "The main campground closes on Labor Day however there is a small section near the boat ramp open year round" when describing Lone Point Campground.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during summer months. "If camping on weekends May to September will need to book it in advanced," warns Nathan E. about Lithia Springs.
Budget-friendly options: For those seeking economical camping with pets, Possum Creek Campground offers basic amenities at lower prices. Catherine T. notes, "The price to tent/rv camp was 8 bucks. Cheapest we ever been to and we camp a lot."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground amenities: Robin Hood Woods Campground & Cottage Resort offers excellent facilities for children. "Great campground for a chill entertaining weekend with kids. Beautiful new pool was perfectly maintained with plenty of tables and chairs to make a day of the time at the pool. Pavilion and picnic area near pool and playground perfect for family gatherings or kids birthdays," reports Sarah S.
Fishing with kids: Several campgrounds have designated fishing areas suitable for young anglers. "My son came to fish so make sure your site isn't on a hill where you can't fish from the site. Fishing is good though, the bass are biting!" advises Riley J. at Camp Lakewood.
Buddy sites for group camping: Families camping together should look for buddy sites. Michael M. explains, "There are several buddy sites here that are set up very well for groups of RV's and tents camping together" at Coon Creek.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RV access varies significantly between campgrounds. John T. notes about Camp Lakewood, "The staff was friendly and informative. They guided us to our site which was good, I never would have found my site without their help. Like I said, all gravel without clear markings or signage."
Hookup availability: Water access points require planning. At Opossum Creek, "There are 6 water hydrants in the park that make it easy for all not water sites to fill up with their hose. There is a dump station, boat launch and fish cleaning station," according to Debra M.
Site levelness: Some sites require leveling equipment. "The sites are fairly tight. Couldn't erect our screen house even if we wanted to," warns John T. about Camp Lakewood, while Lone Point campers mention, "Some of the spots aren't level and not much space to put your outside gear."
Guide
