Camping near Lake Shelbyville
Lake Shelbyville in central Illinois features several developed campgrounds managed by the Army Corps of Engineers and state agencies. Lithia Springs, Coon Creek, and Opossum Creek offer waterfront camping with both tent and RV accommodations, while Robin Hood Woods Campground provides a resort-style experience with cottage rentals and glamping options. Most campgrounds provide electric hookups, with several offering full-hookup sites for RVs, and primitive tent sites scattered throughout the area, particularly along the lakeshore where visitors can enjoy water views and fishing access.
Campgrounds around Lake Shelbyville operate primarily from April through October, with only a few locations like Eagle Creek and Wolf Creek State Parks remaining open year-round. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends and holidays when waterfront sites fill quickly. "This campground is well spaced and offers both privacy and full hook ups. In addition there is a marina in walking distance and it is a short drive to the Dam Project Office and Visitor Center," noted one visitor about Lithia Springs. Most campgrounds provide clean restrooms and shower facilities, though amenities vary by location, with some offering only vault toilets during shoulder seasons.
Waterfront campsites receive consistently high ratings from visitors, particularly those with direct lake access for fishing and boating. The area features several marinas where campers can rent pontoon boats and fishing equipment. A camper described Opossum Creek: "Sites 27 and 28 are really big. They sit on a big hill with lots of space for the kids to play. You can't swim right off of site 27 but behind 28 there is a little train down so a swimming cove that is pretty nice." Family-friendly amenities at some campgrounds include swimming pools, playgrounds, and weekend activities during peak season. The proximity to the town of Shelbyville (typically within 10-15 minutes) allows campers to easily access supplies, with several campgrounds offering on-site stores for basic provisions and firewood.
