Sangchris Lake State Park offers campgrounds within a 4,000-acre natural area surrounding the three-fingered lake. The park sits about 25 miles southeast of Springfield with 120 miles of shoreline for water recreation. During spring and fall, temperatures range between 45-75°F, creating comfortable camping conditions with moderate humidity compared to summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lithia Springs, shoreline sites provide direct lake access. "Fishing docks throughout the campground allow pet owners to enjoy lake activities while keeping dogs nearby," notes Jessica N., who adds, "I have been coming here for years with my family when I was younger. The place is as pristine as it was when I was a kid - perfect bathhouse, beautiful lakeshore, and cozy tent camping. Plenty of wildlife to observe and wonderful fishing to be had."
Hiking trails: The conservation area at Friends Creek Campground offers walking paths through tall grass prairie. "Start at the one room schoolhouse and make your way down wide trails. They aren't that long but take a few and they add up," explains Art S. Kate O. adds that the area features "mowed trails to a nearby creek, gentle rolling hills, trees, birds & wildlife and a small bridge."
Swimming access: Lake Shelbyville provides swimming areas near several campgrounds. According to Kathie M., Lithia Springs has "electric, showers, laundry, playground, nice beach, volleyball and some phenomenal sites right on shore." For campers preferring more rustic settings, the tent sites at Sangchris Lake provide alternative swimming options.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: The Kampground (formerly The Last Resort) provides significant space between neighbors. Jay M. reports, "The area is really quiet with neighbors far enough away that any noise we made went unheard." At Friends Creek, sites maintain privacy through natural buffers. Kathi V. describes it as a "lovely, treed, clean and quiet" location with "tent and RV sites, including 50 amp sites."
Well-maintained facilities: Lake Taylorville City Campground offers basic but clean amenities. While one camper notes "it's not anything fancy but it has the basics," Peggy G. describes it as a "very nice, quiet, friendly place to camp." This modest approach extends to several dog friendly campgrounds near Blue Mound that focus on cleanliness rather than luxury.
Outdoor recreation infrastructure: Multiple parks feature designed recreation areas. The Springfield area campgrounds maintain playgrounds, sports facilities, and pet exercise areas. Jana C. mentions Lake Taylorville's proximity advantage: "It's still great to have 10 minutes from home," while Jason L. at Sangchris Lake appreciates the "beautiful shoreline lots" that provide both views and recreation space.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding considerations: Lake levels can fluctuate significantly, particularly at Coon Creek. One camper notes, "It rained a lot while we were here and of course our stairs landed right in a mud puddle but it was mostly well drained and clear water on the gravel." Spring visits may encounter higher water levels affecting shoreline sites.
Reservation requirements: Peak seasons require advance planning. Greg S. advises that at Sangchris Lake "all sites at Hickory Point are very close to lake" making them particularly desirable. At Friends Creek, Kate O. cautions that "specific campsites aren't reserved. Get here early and you have your choice."
Weather variability: Central Illinois experiences rapid weather changes, particularly during spring and fall. Susan L. encountered electrical issues after a heat wave: "Because of the heat over this holiday weekend and a completely full campground, the electricity couldn't meet the demand and a transformer blew." Pack for temperature swings of 30°F within 24 hours.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain playground equipment for children. Jason W. describes Sangchris Lake as an "open campground close to lake" with "lake spots available" making it easy to supervise children while fishing. Gary B. notes the Deer Run area has "good clean campground, restrooms were clean and they have a playground to keep the kids entertained and fishing nearby."
Educational opportunities: Historical features provide learning experiences. Coon Creek at Lake Shelbyville offers natural exploration opportunities. Melissa B. shares: "There are several paths down to the waters edge and the beach, lots of little hiking, tons of Geocaching, and a great little beach that my son really like to swim."
Multiple activity options: Parks with diverse facilities keep children engaged. Mike G. discovered that tent sites at Sangchris Lake "are first come, first served, and a short walk from the parking spots." Friends Creek offers trails, a creek for wading, and historical exploration at the schoolhouse.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Double J Campground and RV Park provides complete services for larger vehicles. Patricia G. emphasizes the convenience: "Nice level site, pull-through for overnighters (thank you) lots of grass and walking areas for pets." Kelsie L. adds they provide "full site hookups 30/50 amp, water, sewer, cable and WiFi."
Site selection strategy: Choose locations based on shade and level ground. At Sangchris Lake, JASON L. recommends: "Sites are spacious and campground is quiet and leisurely during the week. Beautiful shoreline lots. 30 amp service." For better drainage, Kaitlin D. prefers the "spaced out, gravel sites and asphalt roads" at Hickory Point.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds provide dumping facilities, though quality varies. M. Susan A. notes that at Deer Run Campground, "We should have brought firewood, as firewood was only available at an exorbitant price for very few pieces." Plan to arrive with a full water tank during busier periods when water supply points may be congested.
