Lake Shelbyville provides extensive camping options near Findlay, Illinois, with over 400 campsites spread across multiple recreation areas. The 11,100-acre reservoir features 172 miles of shoreline with elevation ranging from 590 to 620 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, though specific opening dates vary by location.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Shelbyville offers excellent fishing for multiple species. At Lithia Springs, the fishing-oriented layout provides direct lake access. "Definitely a fishing oriented campground! The sites have both cement pads and gravel depending on the site. Some of the sites are huge, most are nice size and more or less well maintained," notes camper Shelly S.
Hiking trails: The 12-mile Chief Illini trail connects several campgrounds along Lake Shelbyville's shoreline. "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 and even if we thought it was a little dirty," according to Melissa B. at Coon Creek.
Water activities: Beyond swimming, boating options range from kayaks to pontoon rentals. "Lake Shelbyville has everything: biking, hiking, a beach, fishing and the town has a small movie theater showing current movies for $4.00," says Ronald B. about Coon Creek.
What campers like
Private beach access: Many campsites offer trails to secluded shoreline spots. At Lone Point Campground, camper Melissa B. discovered "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."
Wildlife viewing: The wooded campsites provide excellent wildlife habitat. "We had 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," reports Crystal at Coon Creek.
Spacious sites: Many campsites offer ample room between neighbors. At Opossum Creek, "Sites 27 and 28 are really big. They sit on a big hill with lots of space for the kids to play. The other sites I saw were more standard sized," says Mike D.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campsite quality varies significantly across Lake Shelbyville campgrounds. "The tent only site that I was at. You had to park your car in a parking lot across the street but from my site it was down a little further. I like having my car close by so I can access anything," notes patricia D. about Bo Wood Recreation Area.
Seasonal considerations: Bug activity increases significantly after dark in summer months. "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 Austin-Tarra G. about Bo Wood.
Campground closures: Some campgrounds have limited seasons or may close for maintenance. "The federal government has chose to close this campground for the next camping season which is horrible for this area!" reported MeriLee B. about Lone Point, highlighting the importance of confirming availability before planning your trip.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer additional activities beyond water recreation. Robin Hood Woods Campground & Cottage Resort provides "a pool, playground, fishing pond and small arcade room. You can rent a peddle type cart that holds 4 people who all peddle. They really loved them," according to Tina H.
Tent site selection: Choose tent sites carefully based on access needs and shade. "The sites are mostly gravel and level. The only thing I would say is make sure that you bring a screen tent for eating outside as the bugs really get bad at night," advises Melissa B. about Coon Creek.
Wildlife awareness: Take precautions with food storage at Lake Shelbyville campgrounds. "Raccoons are really brave and ate not afraid of humans. They know how to rip open a tent for food. Nothing is safe here," cautions Jana C. about camping at Whitley Creek.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Many RV sites require additional equipment for proper setup. "Some of the sites aren't level and not much space to put your outside gear. The bathrooms were decent," notes Jacqueline F. about Lone Point Campground.
Hookup variations: Water and electric access varies significantly between campgrounds and specific sites. "There are 81 sites in total, 17 tent with electric, 17 full hook up and the remaining are electric RV sites. There are 6 water hydrants in the park that make it easy for all not water sites to fill up with their hose," explains Debra M. about Opossum Creek.
Proximity to amenities: Town services are readily accessible from most Lake Shelbyville campgrounds. "Shelbyville is just 10minutes making it easy to pick up more firewood and other essentials if needed. Overall very nice stay," reports Emily P. about Lithia Springs.
