Camping opportunities in east-central Illinois present distinct terrain features that contrast with the region's predominantly flat agricultural landscape. Areas near Charleston feature unexpected forested hills, small lakes, and creek beds that create natural valleys. Campground facilities vary with seasonal availability, typically with reduced services during winter months when temperatures range from 30-40°F compared to summer averages in the mid-80s.
What to do
Fishing access and boat rentals: At Walnut Point State Park Campground, the concession stand offers fishing supplies and equipment rentals. "The park campground and all of its facilities were very clean. My family had a great time fishing. The lake was well stocked and maintained," notes Todd T. The lake prohibits motor boats, creating a quieter atmosphere for anglers and paddlers.
Hiking trail variety: Trail systems range from short loops to more extensive networks. "I can't believe I didn't know about this place until this year. The walk in tent sites are in a shady woody area and with lake views. Clean pit toilets, serene setting, and a really cool hike to an abandoned observatory," reports Merry L. about Walnut Point State Park.
Wildlife observation: Fall and winter camping provides opportunities for deer watching. Wolf Creek State Park Campground offers "hundreds of campsites" where "deer run through the park in herds in the winter months." Several miles of trails facilitate wildlife viewing throughout the cooler seasons.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Spring Creek Campground in Montrose earns praise for its natural setting. "This is one of the most beautiful campgrounds I've been in in a long time. It's small, owned by an older farmer, has electricity and bathrooms. It's on a couple of small lakes and the bird sounds, the frogs, ducks, the whole natural environment is just wonderful," explains Jeri B.
Affordability: Multiple campgrounds offer economical rates. "Large (considering the size of the city) camping area. Arrived in the dark so kind of hard to make out sites but they are level. About 30 sites. Most (if not all) had water and electric available. Some had picnic tables and firepits as well. Jerry (who picks up the money) lives across the street and only charged us $10," notes Kelly at Fairview Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Bo Wood on Lake Shelbyville receives consistent praise for its fishing access. "Our FHU site was very easy to access and a very level well graveled site. The site is full shade and wooded with a nice fire pit and lantern post. It is spaced well and you face the lake, so the camper blocks any noise from the rest of the loop," reports Ryne T. Accessible fishing spots make this location appealing for anglers.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Signal strength varies by carrier and location. Visitors should prepare for potential connectivity gaps. At Casey KOA, visitors report variable service strength depending on the carrier, with most indicating acceptable service for basic functions but not for streaming or data-intensive activities.
Seasonal considerations: Most facilities reduce services after Labor Day. "We spent the weekend at Coon Creek and had a great time. I enjoyed our Site #14. There was a path behind our site that led to a private 'beach'. Brought my camp chair down the path, and enjoyed my coffee enjoying the lake view while my kiddos were hunting for more frogs," shares Crystal at Coon Creek, noting that early fall offers both comfort and access.
Reservation strategies: Reserve early for popular weekends, especially at Lake Shelbyville campgrounds. "If you're camping with a group and have a boat this is the place to go. There are several buddy sites here that are set up very well for groups of RV's and tents camping together," advises Michael M. about Coon Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. Spring Creek Campground offers "a nice playground in the shade next to a pavilion," according to Jessi R., providing a comfortable spot for children during summer months.
Swimming areas: Beach access varies by location and season. At Bo Wood, "There is a boat ramp with ample parking. We put in our kayaks on the boat ramp and enjoyed a nice paddle on a portion of the Shelbyville Lake," reports Austin-Tarra G., though they caution about evening insects: "Our biggest issue with this campsite was the extensive bugs, once the sun goes down the bugs get horribly bad."
Noise levels: Campgrounds enforce quiet hours, even during busy periods. At Walnut Point State Park, Rachel H. notes, "Stayed for 3 nights and loved it. There are 4 total camp areas in the campground portion of the park. Grey Squirrel and Fox Squirrel are the RV sites and Grey and Fox Tent are the tent areas. Tents are allowed in the RV area as well."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Back-in sites predominate at most area campgrounds. At Spring Creek Campground, Borkhuis D. reports, "We stopped for an over night, arrived late. Owners very accommodating and very nice. No reservation was needed, just stop in, find a site and we'll find you in the morning. Easy close access from I-70, only 7 miles out of Effingham at the Montrose exit."
Utilities and hookups: Water access points may require extended hoses. Wolf Creek State Park Campground requires campers to "bring plenty of water hose. The water faucets for fill up can be a bit far away," according to Nathaniel K.
Leveling requirements: Most sites feature gravel pads that are relatively level. "Great campground, big but didn't feel 'big'. Excellent place to ride bikes; didn't venture on lake but it was beautiful. Bo Wood is on north end of lake and is the quiet side," shares Bran P. about Bo Wood.
