Camping options near Mattoon, Illinois primarily center around Lake Shelbyville, with most sites situated 20-30 miles from town. This lake-centric camping region offers sites at elevations between 590-630 feet, with relatively flat terrain that transitions from prairie farmland to forested lakeshores. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with higher humidity levels from June through August, making spring and fall popular for more comfortable camping conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Shelbyville supports multiple species including bass, crappie, and catfish. Lithia Springs offers direct lake access with a marina within walking distance. "The marina here is great with boat gas, fishing equipment, bait, snacks and other items you might need in a pinch. They also rent fishing boats and pontoon boats so you can go on a boating excursion while camping here for a price," notes reviewer Michael M.
Hiking trails: The region features several trail networks of varying difficulty. Fox Ridge State Park Campground offers interesting terrain due to glacial deposits. "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," writes Michael M.
Kayaking and paddling: Several campgrounds provide non-motorized water access. At Eagle Creek State Park, visitors can launch directly from campground access points. "We put in our kayaks on the boat ramp and enjoyed a nice paddle on a portion of the Shelbyville Lake," reports Austin-Tarra G.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Coon Creek campground receives high marks for its site layout and privacy. "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," writes Michael M.
Clean facilities: Most Lake Shelbyville campgrounds maintain excellent bathroom and shower facilities. At Spring Creek Campground, visitors appreciate the consistently clean amenities. "Campground is well maintained. All spots are back in. All have electricity but only a few have water. There are clean restrooms with free showers. There is a central dumping station upon exit," notes James C.
Affordability: Camping options around Mattoon provide good value. Walnut Point State Park offers electric sites with lake access at reasonable rates. "We paid less than $25 a night for full hooks up and we had an almost lake view," mentions Austin-Tarra G. about Bo Wood Recreation Area, noting the excellent price-to-amenity ratio.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Campground well maintained and bathrooms/showers are kept clean. Easy access to lake, my family has been coming here every year for 20 plus years. If camping on weekends May to September will need to book it in advanced," warns Nathan E. about Lithia Springs.
Bug concerns: Evening insects can be problematic in certain areas, particularly at waterfront sites. "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," cautions Austin-Tarra G. about Bo Wood Recreation Area.
Limited supplies nearby: Walnut Point State Park Campground has specific regulations about firewood. "You have to get firewood at the concession building to burn in the park. You can also rent kayaks, purchase bait, get info, and buy snacks," explains Rachel H. At Fox Ridge, visitors should "bring everything you need for the weekend with you, there are no businesses close to the park."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. Camp Lakewood offers family-friendly facilities. "Beautiful view from site 19! My son came to fish so make sure your site isn't on a hill where you can't fish from the site. Fishing is good though, the bass are biting! The swimming area is basically just a dock you can jump off of but it's not crowded at all so plenty of room for my family," reports Riley J.
Educational opportunities: Eagle Creek State Recreation Area provides opportunities to observe wildlife. "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 and makes for some good fireside stories," shares Michael M.
Swimming options: While not all campgrounds permit swimming, several offer designated swimming areas. At Bo Wood, "there is a dog park and beautiful views, but the sites are very crowded. There are full hook up sites and electric only. If you like the party atmosphere, this place is for you," notes Debra M.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging navigation for larger rigs. At Camp Lakewood, "nice set up, but lots are tight with winding roads to sites. Many sites overlook small lake. Must be nice in summer and fall when leaves are on trees. Full hook up on lots but no cable," reports Rick.
Utilities availability: Electric options vary by campground, with some offering full hookups. At Spring Creek Campground, one visitor notes, "We stopped for an over night, arrived late. Owners very accommodating and very nice. No reservation was needed, just stop in, find a site and we'll find you in the morning. Easy close access from I-70, only 7 miles out of Effingham at the Montrose exit. 30 amp, spacious sites."
Leveling requirements: Site terrain varies significantly across the best places to camp near Mattoon. "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," notes Shelly S. about Lithia Springs.
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