Cabin rentals at Lake Shelbyville provide accommodations across 11,100 acres of water surrounded by oak-hickory forests in central Illinois. The lake extends 14 miles through Shelby and Moultrie counties with 172 miles of shoreline. Cabin options range from basic units to full-amenity cottages with most sites open from April through October, though some locations offer year-round availability.
What to do
Fishing access: Lake Shelbyville offers excellent fishing opportunities for bass, crappie, and catfish. "Lake Shelbyville has everything: biking, hiking, a beach, fishing and the town has a small movie theater showing current movies for $4.00," notes Ronald B. about Coon Creek.
Hiking trails: Wolf Creek State Park features several miles of trails through forested terrain. "There are lots of hiking trails and deer run through the park in herds in the winter months. The hiking is OK in this park and good if you like short 1 to 1 1/2 mile hikes," explains Michael M. from Wolf Creek State Park Campground.
Swimming options: Many cabin locations offer swimming access at beaches or pools. "The beach very warm water. 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., who stayed at Coon Creek.
What campers like
Lakeside views: Many cabins near Lake Shelbyville feature water views or direct lake access. "We chose a buddy site even though we weren't camping with another family because we like the location. It was right at the end of the peninsula, and it is by far the biggest and beautiful site we have ever stayed in," shares Melissa B. about her experience at Coon Creek.
Family activities: Robin Hood Woods Campground & Cottage Resort offers amenities beyond basic cabin camping. "Great campground for a chill entertaining weekend with kids. Beautiful new pool was perfectly maintained with plenty of tables and chairs to make a day of the time at the pool. Pavilion and picnic area near pool and playground perfect for family gatherings," explains Sarah S.
Peaceful settings: Many cabins provide quiet, natural surroundings. "We have camped here many times and this time was awesome as well. The park is huge and is one of the only state park's in Illinois with horse camping and horse trails," notes Michael M. about the diverse camping options at Wolf Creek State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking, especially during summer months. "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. You can reserve spots online in advance but clearly we did not because we didn't know we'd be headed there. Same day is first come first serve," explains Sadie R. about her experience at Sangchris Lake State Park Campground.
Seasonal availability: Cabin rentals have varying operational seasons. "Nice park, spacious sites, bring plenty of water hose. The water faucets for fill up can be a bit far away. Shower house was older but was heated and water was hot," advises Nathaniel K. about Wolf Creek State Park.
Amenities variation: Cabin facilities differ significantly between locations. "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," Crystal shares about her cabin experience.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for cabins near play areas for children. "This is a wonderful campground with drive in availability, equestrian camp and reservable sites! This campground also has boat access and a beach and hiking trails. It is built into the woods so most lots are very shady and all are very level," recommends MeriLee B. about Wolf Creek State Park Campground.
Bug preparation: Pack insect repellent and consider screen tents for outdoor meals. "We have been camping at Coon Creek, on a beautiful Lake Shelbyville, for a few years now, the place is perfect for family vacations. Nestled in trees. Equipped in fire pits, and lantern posts. Gravel surfaces, with grass around," shares Meg S.
Entertainment options: Consider locations with recreation facilities. "Took grandkids there for the day. There's 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. You can also rent golf carts," explains Tina H. about the family-friendly options at Robin Hood Woods.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking cabin rentals, consider site layout and accessibility. "This campground is very shady on a beautiful lake. The tent campsites are level and there is enough space between the sites to make for a quiet night. The facility at the time of our visit was clean and well maintained," notes Chad K. about Camp Lakewood.
Hookup availability: Check for power needs if bringing additional equipment. "The camp sites are divided into many loops and have side pullin sites and backin sites. The RV and tent sites are grouped in the same loops and there are many that have trails from the site right to the lake and people leave the boat near the campsite but still on the water," explains Michael M. about Coon Creek.
Access considerations: Some cabins have challenging terrain or specific requirements. "I was surprised when I arrived that there wasn't a ranger, host, or campground office to check in with. There was a self registration kiosk on the site that was supposed to be the host. The bathrooms were dirty and weren't cleaned until Friday," warns Heidi about Wolf Creek State Park, highlighting the importance of checking registration procedures.
