Lake Shelbyville encompasses over 11,000 acres of water surrounded by mixed hardwood forests in central Illinois. Located at approximately 600 feet above sea level, the reservoir features a shoreline that stretches more than 170 miles through rolling terrain. Campers can experience moderate temperatures averaging 75°F during summer months with cooler spring and fall seasons ideal for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Boating and water access: At Lithia Springs, campsites provide direct lake access with options for launching personal watercraft. "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. At the end of the circles there are some sites right on the lake and the boat ramp is nearby," notes reviewer Shelly S.
Fishing opportunities: The lake supports multiple fish species accessible from shore or boat. "Definitely a fishing oriented campground! The Engineers were even nice enough to build in a gravel path to the lake on one circle," reports a Lithia Springs visitor. Multiple fishing docks and boat launches provide access points throughout the reservoir.
Hiking trails: Fox Ridge State Park Campground offers extensive trail systems through varied terrain. "The hiking trails are some of the best in the state because the glaciers dropped of mountains of soil in the area where this park is located. The surrounding farm land is flat as can be, but the forested hills and creek beds in the park are almost mountainous," explains reviewer Michael M.
What campers like
Privacy and spaciousness: Wolf Creek State Park Campground features secluded sites with natural buffers. "All sites have level gravel pads. The sites weren't bad, but most were kind of small and close together," notes one camper. Wolf Creek maintains dedicated equestrian camping with 13 horse sites and multiple trailer parking areas.
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention well-maintained bathroom facilities across the area. At Forrest W. Bo Wood, "Clean, well maintained, nice spacious spots, boat ramp and parking, dog run, playground" are highlighted by reviewer Debi. The US Army Corps of Engineers maintains many campgrounds around the lake to high standards.
Waterfront access: Premium sites directly on the shoreline provide optimal lake views and private water access. "We stayed at Site #12 overlooking the lake. The site was large and level although it can be tricky to back into," notes a Lithia Springs camper.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most lakeside glamping close to Lake Shelbyville requires advance booking. "Campground well maintained and bathrooms/showers are kept clean. If camping on weekends May to September will need to book it n advanced," advises Nathan E. about Lithia Springs.
Seasonal operation: Many facilities have limited schedules. Okaw Valley Kampground operates from April through October with full amenities during this period. Eagle Creek State Park Campground remains open year-round with reduced services during winter months.
Utilities access: Water hookup locations vary by campground. "Nice park, spacious sites, bring plenty of water hose. The water faucets for fill up can be a bit far away," warns Nathaniel K. from Wolf Creek State Park. Electrical service ranges from 30-50 amp depending on the campsite section.
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Robin Hood Woods Campground & Cottage Resort offers extensive family-focused facilities. "A great hidden gem! Wonderful pirate ship playground. Weekend activities for the kids. Electric golf carts allowed," shares Janelle H. The campground organizes seasonal events specifically for children.
Swimming options: Multiple locations provide designated swimming areas. "A great place for outdoors activities. There is a boat ramp, picnic areas, a small swimming beach and very nice lakeside campsites," describes a Lithia Springs visitor. Some campgrounds maintain pools as alternatives to lake swimming.
Wildlife viewing: The woods surrounding the lake support diverse animal populations. "There is tons of deer and other animals to watch and watch out that they don't steal your food while you are sleeping. The wild life is great for photography," notes a camper at Eagle Creek State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Lone Point offers larger sites accommodating bigger rigs. "We stayed at loan point in a 20 foot travel trailer on site 55 which was a great spot to be. We had a small, narrow, and very steep path to a beach area that was great for exploring and building rock formations," shares Melissa B. Select sites based on specific needs for slide-outs and awnings.
Electrical considerations: During peak summer periods, electrical systems can be strained. "Half the campsites have electric hookups and water near the sites, the other half now have full hookups and 50 amp service. It is recommended to fill your tanks as you enter so you won't need to get water during your stay," advises a Lithia Springs reviewer.
Leveling requirements: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds and sites. "Most sites are large with extra lawn area to set up games. Most lots are very level," notes a reviewer about the sites at Robin Hood Woods, though site conditions vary throughout the reservoir area.
