The camping sites near Mode, Illinois mainly cluster around Lake Shelbyville, a 11,100-acre reservoir created in 1970 by damming the Kaskaskia River. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 590-610 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures averaging 85°F during peak camping season. Water levels fluctuate by 3-5 feet seasonally, affecting beach access and boat launch usability at certain campgrounds.
What to do
Fishing spots: Lake Shelbyville offers multiple coves and fishing areas accessible from various campgrounds. At Coon Creek (IL), campers frequently catch bass from shore: "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," notes Riley J.
Beach swimming: Access sandy areas from multiple points around the lake. Lone Point offers secluded swimming spots accessible via steep trails. "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," writes Melissa B.
Biking and hiking: Trail networks connect several campgrounds. The 12-mile Chief Illini Trail runs from Lone Point to Eagle Creek along the shoreline, rated moderate to difficult. A visitor to Eagle Creek State Park Campground noted: "Really beautiful lake and lookouts and trail down to sandy beach. Close marina and even little food truck right off the lake."
What campers like
Private lake access: Waterfront sites at many campgrounds offer direct lake access. At Opossum Creek, "There are 81 sites in total, 17 tent with electric, 17 full hook up and the remaining are electric RV sites... We were in spot 11 that is right next to the shower house, but faces away from it and your view is trees and the lake," reports Debra M.
Boat rentals: Marina availability eliminates need to bring your own watercraft. "A storm swept in last year and it was not fun taking that boat all the way back up to Findlay. This summer, I went to Lithia Springs Marina to rent the boat and it took about 10 minutes from this campground," explains Mike D., highlighting proximity advantages.
Off-season camping: Reduced crowds make fall visits ideal. Wolf Creek State Park Campground remains open year-round, with many campers noting October offers prime conditions for seeing fall colors and wildlife. "There are hundreds of campsites in this park in addition to the horse campgrounds...There are lots of hiking trails and deer run through the park in herds in the winter months."
What you should know
Site reservations: Book early for summer weekends. Some campgrounds open reservations 6 months in advance, with holiday weekends filling up rapidly. Lithia Springs receives consistently high demand: "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 advance."
Water access: Hydrant locations vary by campground. At many sites, a single water spigot serves multiple campsites. "The water faucets for fill up can be a bit far away," notes Nathaniel K. about Wolf Creek State Park, recommending campers "bring plenty of water hose."
Camp store hours: Limited options for supplies exist at most campgrounds. While some locations like Camp Lakewood offer small stores, hours can be restricted, especially off-season. Many campers mention Shelbyville is only 10-15 minutes from most campgrounds: "Walmart is within 16 minutes. There's a small store right outside the front gate."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Child-friendly beaches with varying amenities exist at several locations. Robin Hood Woods Campground & Cottage Resort features "a pool, playground, fishing pond and small arcade room. You can rent a peddle type cart that holds 4 people who all peddle. They really loved them," according to Tina H.
Playground facilities: Activity options for children vary significantly between campgrounds. Families consistently rate Robin Hood Woods highly: "Great campground for a chill entertaining weekend with kids. Beautiful new pool was perfectly maintained with plenty of tables and chairs to make a day of the time at the pool. Pavilion and picnic area near pool and playground perfect for family gatherings."
Weekend events: Seasonal activities sometimes include organized programs. "We went 4th of July weekend and they even had a golf cart parade and through candy which was so fun for our son," reports Sara W., highlighting how some campgrounds offer additional entertainment during peak holidays.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Pad quality varies between campgrounds and within individual loops. At Camp Lakewood, "Gravel sites and level. Big shade trees. The road to our site had a tight turn and required a little maneuvering but not terrible," notes Sharon J.
Full hookup availability: Limited options at some locations. While several campgrounds offer full hookups, availability is often restricted to specific loops or sections. "The sites are divided into many loops and have side pullin sites and backin sites...There are a few isolated sites on corners of loops, but most are fairly close together," explains Michael M.
Big rig access: Turning radius concerns exist at certain campgrounds. Camp Lakewood receives mixed reviews for larger rigs: "Nice set up, but lots are tight with winding roads to sites. Many sites overlook small lake. Full hook up on lots but no cable."
Guide
