Camping near Findlay, Illinois centers around Lake Shelbyville, an 11,100-acre reservoir with 172 miles of shoreline. Most campgrounds sit at approximately 600 feet elevation in this region that experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures frequently reaching the mid-90s and mild springs and falls. Several campgrounds remain open year-round, though amenities and water access points often close after October.
What to Do
Fishing spots: Lithia Springs has exceptional lake access for anglers. As one camper notes, it's "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." The Engineers even constructed "a gravel path to the lake on one circle," making water access convenient.
Hiking trails: The Chief Illini trail offers more challenging hiking for those seeking exercise. According to a visitor at Lone Point, "There is a 12 mile trail from Lone Point to Eagle creek along the lake shore line, this trail is moderate to difficult hiking." The terrain provides varied elevations uncommon in this otherwise flat region of Illinois.
Wildlife viewing: Fall and winter months offer excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. Deer are commonly seen in large numbers, with one camper reporting that at Fox Ridge State Park Campground, "there are lots of hiking trails and deer run through the park in herds in the winter months." Early morning and dusk provide the best wildlife viewing times.
What Campers Like
Spacious sites: Wolf Creek State Park Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. A visitor explains, "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." For non-equestrians, there are "hundreds of campsites in this park in addition to the horse campgrounds."
Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds in the area maintain peaceful environments, particularly during weekdays. One camper at Friends Creek Campground described it as "a true hidden gem. Lovely, treed, clean and quiet. Tent and RV sites, including 50 amp sites! Book online and enjoy real solitude." The campground remained "very quiet" even when "almost completely full on a Friday."
Boat access: Several campgrounds feature convenient boat ramps. At Forrest W. Bo Wood, there's "a large 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." Many sites offer waterfront views combined with full hookups for RVs.
What You Should Know
Seasonal closures: While some campgrounds remain open year-round, services are limited in off-seasons. At Sangchris Lake State Park Campground, campers can enjoy the park from April 1 to January 16, but water sources may be turned off during freezing temperatures.
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, especially summer weekends, reservations are essential. As one visitor to Lithia Springs noted, "If camping on weekends May to September will need to book it n advanced." Some campgrounds offer first-come, first-served sites, but these fill quickly during peak times.
Bug activity: Insect activity can be intense, particularly after sunset in summer months. A camper at Forrest W. Bo Wood warned that "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."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground options: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. Robin Hood Woods Campground & Cottage Resort features "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."
Beach access: Swimming beaches provide cooling relief during hot summer months. According to a Fox Ridge visitor, "The camp host is very friendly and goes above and beyond to help you with all your needs. It is dog friendly and people friendly!" Many campers appreciate the clean shower facilities after a day at the beach.
Weekday visits: For families seeking quieter experiences, mid-week camping offers more space and solitude. A camper at Wolf Creek observed that during a Wednesday arrival, "the area - which if full would've been pretty cramped for our taste - was absolutely empty. So we were happy."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: While many campgrounds offer electric sites, full hookups are limited. At Sangchris Lake, one RVer noted, "Electric only but still love. Spaced out, gravel sites and asphalt roads. We always get sites with our own private dock to fish from." Water fill stations are available but may require planning.
Level sites: Most RV sites in the region are relatively level. At Lithia Springs, "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. Luck of the draw on being level and having shade."
Dump station access: Almost all campgrounds provide dump stations, though locations vary. A Friends Creek visitor mentioned there's "no sewer or water hookup but a convenient dump station." RVers should fill water tanks upon arrival as some sites are positioned far from water sources.
