Lake Shelbyville stands as the central feature for camping near Mattoon, Illinois, with over 11,000 acres of water surrounded by diverse terrain ranging from flat farmland to glacial deposits creating wooded hills. Campgrounds in the region typically operate from April through October, though some sites remain accessible year-round. The area experiences humid continental climate with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking the Chief Illini Trail: The 12-mile trail connecting Lone Point to Eagle Creek offers moderate to difficult hiking along Lake Shelbyville's shoreline. "There is a 12 mile trail from Lone Point to Eagle creek along the lake shore line, this trail is moderate to difficult hiking," explains Michael M. who camps frequently in the area.
Fishing on Lake Shelbyville: Multiple access points allow for bank fishing or boat fishing for bass, bluegill and catfish. Lithia Springs provides both shoreline spots and a marina. "An awesome campground on Lake Shelbyville with full amenities! A great place for family fun and camping," notes Brandon E. in his review.
Visit Casey's "Big Things": Located 20 miles from Mattoon, the town of Casey features record-breaking oversized items like the world's largest rocking chair and wind chime. "When we were bored we went to Casey the little town of big things and got a kick out of seeing the world's largest rocking chair, wind chime etc.," shares Shirley M. who stayed at Okaw Valley Kampground.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Fox Ridge State Park Campground offers secluded camping with tree buffers between sites. "All sites were spacious and shaded. We did not use any of the facilities but were impressed with how secluded our campsite felt. Each site is isolated by trees and growth and the entire campground is shaded," writes Allen S., highlighting the privacy that complements the park's glamping options.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds around Mattoon maintain well-kept shower houses and restrooms. "The bathhouse is the cleanest I have seen at a campsite," notes Shirley M. about Okaw Valley Kampground, while Josh H. mentions, "Shower house is clean and well maintained" at Eagle Creek State Park Campground.
Direct lake access: Several campsites offer immediate water access. "We had a small, narrow, and very steep path to a beach area that was great for exploring and building rock formations. We even caught the sunset on the beach that night," describes Melissa B. about her experience at Lone Point.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer storms can impact camping plans in the Mattoon area. "We almost needed it as a tornado shelter the evening we stayed, but the thunderstorms were all we had to deal with," explains Fran S. about her experience at Fox Ridge State Park.
Insects can be problematic: Lake Shelbyville campgrounds experience heavy insect activity, particularly after sunset. "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," warns Austin-Tarra G. from their stay at Forrest W. Bo Wood.
Varied site layouts: Campgrounds offer different configurations that may or may not suit your equipment. "Good paved road, big sites, but unfortunately all back in sites. No pull throughs. After unhooking our car, here was plenty of room for our 31 ft motorhome, slide, awning and all," notes Doug W. about Fox Ridge State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Robin Hood Woods Campground & Cottage Resort offers facilities specifically designed for children. "Pavilion and picnic area near pool and playground perfect for family gatherings or kids birthdays. Even a small game room. Dog friendly too! Small pond to fish (catch/release)," shares Sarah S. about this glamping near Mattoon, Illinois option.
Playgrounds and recreation: Several campgrounds feature play equipment and activities for children. "There are multiple playgrounds and even a small amphitheater," mentions Austin-Tarra G. about Bo Wood Recreation Area, providing options beyond glamping accommodations near Mattoon.
Swimming options: Pools and beaches offer water recreation for families. "Really nice campground on the shore of Lake Shelbyville. Electric, showers, laundry, playground, nice beach, volleyball and some phenomenal sites right on shore," reports Kathie M. about Lithia Springs.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Water connections may be inconveniently placed at some campgrounds. "Nice park, spacious sites, bring plenty of water hose. The water faucets for fill up can be a bit far away," advises Nathaniel K. from his stay at Wolf Creek State Park Campground, which complements the park's luxury glamping offerings.
Site selection: Many campgrounds offer both wooded and open sites with varying degrees of shade. "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," explains Shelly S. about Lithia Springs.
Seasonal considerations: Most RV sites around Mattoon are available only during warmer months. "The main campground closes on Labor Day however there is a small section near the boat ramp open year round and this has nice sites in it with camp stove stands as well as grills and awesome fire pits," shares Michael M. about seasonal limitations at Lone Point.
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