Wolf Creek State Park Campground provides over 300 campsites near Mattoon, Illinois, with 141 sites available for reservation. The park borders Lake Shelbyville, offering water recreation opportunities throughout the camping season. The main campground features both 30 and 50 amp electrical hookups, distinguishing it from the equestrian camping area which lacks electrical connections.
What to do
Fishing access: Wolf Creek State Park offers excellent fishing opportunities on Lake Shelbyville. "The boat ramp is a good place to launch here because not very many people use this ramp," notes Michael M. about Whitley Creek - Lake Shelbyville, which provides another lake access point.
Seasonal hiking: Autumn brings colorful trails throughout the wooded sections of the parks. A camper at Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area mentions, "Went in late April and had a good time with not ideal weather. Kid had a blast at playground with other kids."
Lake activities: Beyond fishing, Lake Shelbyville supports swimming and boating through summer months. "Nice big spots. 30 and 50 amp available. Right on lake Shelbyville. 309 spots 141 are reservable," reports Sonya A. about Wolf Creek State Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained sites at Wolf Creek. "Nice park, spacious sites, bring plenty of water hose. The water faucets for fill up can be a bit far away," advises Nathaniel K. at Wolf Creek State Park Campground.
Local wildlife viewing: The parks offer opportunities to spot deer and other wildlife, particularly in less-crowded seasons. "Camped here in a tent. Loved it. Raccoons are really brave and are not afraid of humans," warns Jana C. at Whitley Creek, highlighting the importance of proper food storage.
Community amenities: Some smaller campgrounds near Mattoon provide unexpected conveniences. At Oblong Park and Lake, Cris C. shares, "Price per night is $10 that includes electric and water only...there is a dump station in the park as well...you drop your payment at the bathhouse on the honor system."
What you should know
Camp host availability: Not all parks maintain consistent staffing throughout the season. One camper at Wolf Creek noted, "I was surprised when I arrived that there wasn't a ranger, host, or campground office to check in with. I never saw a ranger the entire time I was there and the host didn't show up until Friday."
Trail maintenance issues: While horse trails are separate from hiking paths, not all trail systems are equally maintained. A visitor to Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area mentions, "Biggest draw back is no electricity in equestrian sites. There's is water and toilets trails aren't marked real well but very wide nicely maintained too."
Weekday tranquility: For those seeking quieter camping experiences, mid-week visits offer less crowded conditions. "We stopped in to Wolf Creek State Park later in the day on a Wednesday...the area - which if full would've been pretty cramped for our taste - was absolutely empty," reports Sadie R.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several parks offer recreational facilities for children. At Oblong Park and Lake, Dusti M. found a "Nice little community park. Nice paced walking path around the lake. Fenced in dog play area. Large park area with multiple playgrounds. Clean bathroom, flush toilets and showers."
Campsite proximity: Families should consider site spacing when making reservations. "Clean campground but camping proximity is very close," notes Felicia about Wolf Creek, while another camper described the sites as "very level" with most being "very shady."
Supply planning: Some parks are situated far from stores, requiring advance shopping. A camper at Mill Creek Park found "Great Lake to be on, tons of trails to hike," but visitors to nearby Ramsey Lake noted "it's somewhat far from supply stores."
Tips from RVers
Water hookup preparation: RV campers need adequate hose length for some sites. "The water faucets for fill up can be a bit far away," mentions Nathaniel K. about Wolf Creek State Park Campground, though the park does offer both 30 and 50 amp service at many sites.
Dump station locations: Not all equestrian camping areas provide sanitary dump stations, requiring planning for longer stays. Oblong Park offers a convenient alternative where "there is a dump station in the park as well," according to a recent visitor.
Electric hookup availability: RVers interested in equestrian camping should note service limitations. At Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area, campers point out that "no electricity in equestrian sites" distinguishes these areas from standard camping loops that do offer electrical connections.
