Camping sites near Decatur, Illinois cluster around several significant bodies of water, including Lake Shelbyville and Clinton Lake, offering diverse terrain across central Illinois. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 600-650 feet, experiencing humid continental climate with hot summers reaching 85-90°F and cold winters. Spring camping typically begins in April when overnight temperatures consistently stay above 45°F.
What to do
Fishing from private docks: At Lone Point, lakeside sites provide direct water access. "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," notes a camper who stayed in a travel trailer.
Horseback riding: Wolf Creek State Park Campground offers dedicated horse camping areas with specialized facilities. "The park is huge and is one of the only state park's in Illinois with horse camping and horse trails. There are 13 horse camp sites and additional trailer parking for about 6 more rigs with tie out posts for riders that will not be camping," explains a visitor.
Off-season stargazing: Winter camping provides unique opportunities when campgrounds are nearly empty. At Clinton Lake State Recreation Area, a camper reported, "Had practically the whole campground to ourselves. Water was turned off for winter which wasn't entirely clear. The RV fill was shutdown too. Water option we're the lake or a 30 min drive into town for bottled."
What campers like
Quiet weekday stays: Many campgrounds become peaceful retreats Monday through Thursday. "We stopped in to Wolf Creek State Park later in the day on a Wednesday after trying to stop at a different campground that was closed. The area was absolutely empty. So we were happy," notes one reviewer about their mid-week experience.
Spacious sites with privacy: Friends Creek Campground earns praise for well-designed sites. "Easy to access from the highway yet while in the park, we experienced pure bliss and quiet. Spacious sites and an abundant amount of shade made this stay even better! The camp hosts do an excellent job as the grounds and bathhouse were all immaculate," reports a fifth-wheel camper.
Unique glamping close to Decatur, Illinois: Beyond traditional camping, luxury glamping options exist at several locations. "We stayed in the J loop, which was more family friendly and very close to the beach. There was a walking path from our site to the shore which was perfect for our young family to go back and forth on," describes a family that enjoyed premium accommodations at Clinton Lake.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Water systems shut down during winter months at most campgrounds. Even during regular season, water access varies by site. At Sangchris Lake State Park Hickory Point, campers note, "Electric only but water available and nice dump station. All sites at Hickory Point very close to lake."
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others offer first-come options. "When reserving, note that there are a handful of 50 amp sites, several 30 amp sites and tent sites available," advises a Friends Creek camper. Another mentions, "One note: if you reserve a camping spot it's just to have a site. Specific campsites aren't reserved. Get here early and you have your choice."
Bug activity: Evening insect populations can be significant, especially near water. "Our biggest issue with this campsite was the extensive bugs, once the sun goes down the bugs get horribly bad. We let our dogs out past 8 p.m. and our camper was covered with swarms of psychodidae(sewer) flies," warns a camper from Forrest W. Bo Wood.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Robin Hood Woods Campground & Cottage Resort offers family-centered amenities. "Pavilion and picnic area near pool and playground perfect for family gatherings or kids birthdays. Even a small game room. Dog friendly too! Small pond to fish (catch/release)," shares a family reviewer. Another mentions "a pool, playground, fishing pond and small arcade room. You can rent a peddle type cart that holds 4 people who all peddle."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds provide beach access with varying amenities. "We stayed in the J loop, which was more family friendly and very close to the beach. There was a walking path from our site to the shore which was perfect for our young family to go back and forth on," notes a Clinton Lake visitor.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites complement the camping experience. Friends Creek offers a "historic schoolhouse, and guided tours are available by calling. Before leaving the next morning, I enjoyed a walk on the two trails," reports a camper, while another mentions "The old school house is a must see."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electrical service differs significantly between sites and campgrounds. "We have only stayed in the electric only sites as the full hookup sites are hard to come by. Very quiet at night and depending on your site, there are nice views of the summer sky," explains a Clinton Lake visitor.
Leveling challenges: Site terrain varies widely, requiring preparation. "Some of the sites aren't level and not much space to put your outside gear," reports an RVer at Lone Point, while another mentions, "Our site was fairly level and easy to maneuver into. For reference, we have a 34' fifth wheel."
Space between sites: RV sites at some locations offer more privacy than others. "The sites are spaced a decent amount of distance apart and with the many trees, it did not feel crowded, despite being almost full when we were there," notes a Friends Creek reviewer. Conversely, another camper observed of a different park, "I thought the campsites were crammed together. The primitive looked nicer but we were in our camper and wanted electric."
