Wolf Creek State Park Campground offers a range of camping options beyond equestrian sites. The park features over 300 campsites spread across several areas near Lake Shelbyville. While the horse camp section requires actual horses to be present, the main campground areas accommodate tents, RVs, and traditional camping setups. The park's location within the 11,100-acre Lake Shelbyville recreation complex provides access to boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking opportunities for all visitors regardless of horse ownership.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Shelbyville: Several campgrounds provide lake access for anglers seeking largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish. At Red Hills State Park, "the lake is nice sized but not too big" with "great fishing for largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and channel cat," according to Donald T. Electric motors are allowed on boats with depth reaching 21 feet in some areas.
Hiking through wooded trails: The horse trails at Wolf Creek are just part of the trail system. Stephen A. Forbes State Park offers additional hiking options where "main trail was nice but could be better marked," as Tracie E. notes. Fall hiking is particularly popular with cooler temperatures and colorful foliage across the region.
Swimming and beach access: Several parks maintain designated swimming areas during summer months. At Wolf Creek State Park, campers should note that "the beach was small and also not well kept" and "closes after Labor Day," according to reviews, but remains a popular option during peak summer heat.
What campers like
Spacious, shaded sites: Many horse campgrounds near Effingham, Illinois feature larger-than-average campsites to accommodate trailers and equipment. At Wolf Creek State Park, campers appreciate that "most lots are very shady and all are very level," according to MeriLee B. The campground layout provides more privacy than typical RV parks.
Peaceful weekday camping: For those seeking solitude, midweek stays offer significantly quieter experiences. Sadie R. found Wolf Creek "beautiful/quiet during week" noting "the area which if full would've been pretty cramped for our taste was absolutely empty." Several campgrounds experience higher occupancy during weekends and holidays.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Deer sightings are common throughout the area's campgrounds. At Oblong Park and Lake, the "nice paced walking path around the lake" provides wildlife viewing opportunities in a "humble rural park with a quiet atmosphere," according to Kyler F. Morning and evening hours offer the best chance to spot local wildlife.
What you should know
Campsite selection matters: At Sam Dale Lake State Conservation Area, Nichole M. warns that some sites have placement issues: "We ended up with Site 8. It was literally on a culvert pipe on top of the ditch." Research specific sites before booking, especially during holiday weekends when choices may be limited.
Water access varies by campground: Many campgrounds feature water spigots that may be located some distance from individual sites. Nathaniel K. advises campers at Wolf Creek to "bring plenty of water hose. The water faucets for fill up can be a bit far away."
Enforcement of equestrian camping rules: The equestrian camping areas strictly enforce horse presence requirements. One camper reported: "On July 4th we were given the option of moving our entire campsite or being kicked out of the park" after booking in horse camp without horses. Always verify campground rules when making reservations.
Bathroom and shower facilities: Maintenance schedules vary significantly between parks. One camper noted at Wolf Creek that "bathrooms were dirty and weren't cleaned until Friday" during a Wednesday-Saturday stay. Facility quality generally improves during peak season when more staff are available.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Mill Creek Park provides "tons of trails to hike" and play areas for children. Similarly, Donald T. notes that Red Hills has "lots to do for kids, as the park has basketball courts, volleyball court, and lots of playground equipment around the park."
Swimming alternatives: When official beaches are closed or unmaintained, families can still enjoy water activities. One camper suggested: "Lake is near by to fish. If you have kids they have play ground to play on" at Red Hills State Park, providing alternative recreation when swimming isn't available.
Site selection for groups: When camping with multiple families, book adjacent sites early. At Sam Dale Lake, one camper mentioned camping with "3 other families a little ways down the campground" in sites 11, 12, and 13, which were "pretty spacious" and convenient to lake access points.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup variations: Across equestrian campgrounds near Effingham, electrical service varies significantly. At Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area, "biggest draw back is no electricity in equestrian sites" according to Alicia B., while the main campground offers standard hookups.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal needs. Doug W. notes at Red Hills State Park: "Water pressure at the Dump site is a little low, but not bad." Some campgrounds position dump stations outside the main camping areas requiring a short drive.
Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds feature slightly uneven sites. As one camper noted about Red Hills, "At first I thought the sites were a bit rough and not very level. But while were there, they started to regrade the pads at the sites. The new gravel was leveled and packed flat."
