Camping near Ramsey, Illinois centers on the Kaskaskia River watershed with elevations ranging from 550-600 feet above sea level. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and moderate rainfall patterns, creating seasonal camping conditions that vary throughout the year. Local campgrounds typically operate on gravel terrain with varying degrees of shade coverage.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Shelbyville offers prime fishing spots for bass, bluegill and catfish. According to a visitor at Lithia Springs, "The Engineers were even nice enough to build in a gravel path to the lake on one circle," making water access convenient for anglers.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas for cooling off during summer months. At Sherwood Forest, "the nature around this place is a plus" with waterfront activities available. Camp Lakewood offers "a swimming area [that] is basically just a dock you can jump off of but it's not crowded at all so plenty of room for my family."
Hiking and exploration: While the region isn't known for extensive trail networks, some campgrounds offer short walking paths. At Okaw Valley Kampground, "there is a little pond where people fished, and a little walking path for little kid 'hikes'." Some campers venture to nearby attractions like "Casey the little town of big things" to see unique roadside attractions.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards receive consistent positive mentions across campgrounds. One reviewer at Okaw Valley Kampground noted, "The bathroom was the cleanest I have seen at a campsite," while another mentioned that "the park appeared well taken care of, and the pool looked clean."
Lake views: Waterfront sites are highly sought after for their scenic value. At Coon Creek, a camper reported, "We chose a buddy site even though we weren't camping with another family because we like the location. It was right at the end of the peninsula, and it is by far the biggest and beautiful site we have ever stayed in."
Helpful management: Staff assistance receives frequent praise at several campgrounds. At Bonanza Campground, visitors appreciate the "people that live/manage here are incredible," while Okaw Valley Kampground's "owner, Barb, was very friendly and helpful," according to one overnight camper.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Lithia Springs, "Campground well maintained and bathrooms/showers are kept clean. Easy access to lake, my family has been coming here every year for 20 plus years. If camping on weekends May to September will need to book it in advanced."
Site variations: Campsite quality and amenities differ considerably between facilities. At Camp Lakewood, "The campground is fairly small. They appeared to have all gravel sites with minimal grass. There are fire rings by request. The sites are fairly tight."
Water quality concerns: Swimming conditions can vary depending on recent rainfall. One camper at Coon Creek mentioned enjoying "a great little beach That my son really like to swim and even if we thought it was a little dirty. Very warm water."
Access considerations: Road networks and site approaches vary in difficulty. At Camp Lakewood, a visitor noted, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play structures for children. Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area campers report, "Kid had a blast at playground with other kids," making it suitable for families with young children.
Fishing for kids: Many fishing areas accommodate younger anglers with easy-access spots. At Timber Trails Campground, visitors appreciate the "family-friendly environment" with fishing opportunities suitable for children.
Swimming options: Check specific swimming amenities when booking. Camp Lakewood campers advise, "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! The swimming area is basically just a dock you can jump off of but it's not crowded at all so plenty of room for my family."
Noise levels: Quiet times are typically enforced, but vary by location. A camper at Coon Creek noted that despite occasional noise from "boat traffic, quiet hours are observed, so you can get a good night's sleep before an action packed day on the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Ground conditions affect setup time. One RVer at Bonanza Campground found "THE MOST level site we have ever had in allllll our years of travel. Literally 0's all around for level on the Levelmate Pro."
Pull-through availability: Access varies significantly between campgrounds. At Okaw Valley Kampground, "We had a pull through just for overnight, and it was perfect," while another RVer noted it has "long spots, friendly owner, easy access to hardware store across the street."
Hookup quality: Water, electric and sewer services differ in reliability. At Bonanza Campground, campers appreciate "Sewer right there, plenty of water pressure, 30 AND 50 amp at the site," making setup convenient for larger rigs.
Navigation challenges: Interior roads can be difficult for larger rigs. A Camp Lakewood visitor cautioned about "winding roads to sites" and that "lots are tight," requiring careful maneuvering for larger vehicles.
