Camping opportunities near Mode, Illinois center around Lake Shelbyville, a 11,100-acre reservoir with 172 miles of shoreline. The region sits at approximately 600 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F, making it ideal for water recreation from May through September. Winter campers can find select heated accommodations, though most facilities close seasonally during November-April.
What to Do
Fishing access points: At Lithia Springs, both shoreline and boat fishing are popular. "Definitely a fishing oriented campground! 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. The Engineers were even nice enough to build in a gravel path to the lake on one circle," notes reviewer Shelly S.
Hiking trails: The 12-mile Chief Illini trail connects several campgrounds 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. from Lone Point Campground.
Water recreation: Beyond fishing, the lake offers swimming at designated beaches and boating options. "Small pond to fish (catch/release). We will be back," notes Sarah S. who stayed at Robin Hood Woods. The reviewer adds that families often make a day at the pool, which has "plenty of tables and chairs."
What Campers Like
Lakeside sites: Eagle Creek State Park Campground offers premium waterfront camping. "Really beautiful lake and lookouts and trail down to sandy beach. Close marina and even little food truck right off the lake. Good fishing. There are a lot of sites and we went on a packed weekend but sites arranged well and ours backed up to woods and felt as private as it could among so many campers," writes Sarah S.
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms across area campgrounds. "The shower house is very nice, clean and private. You can see the lake from the campground and the marina is only a short distance away. Shelbyville is just 10 minutes making it easy to pick up more firewood and other essentials if needed," notes Emily P. about Lithia Springs.
Yurt camping: Wolf Creek State Park Campground provides yurt accommodations near Mode, Illinois. "We stopped in to Wolf Creek State Park later in the day on a Wednesday after trying to stop at a different campground that was closed. The woman that answered was SO nice and I was so happy to hear a voice on the other end," explains Sadie R., who found the campground peaceful during weekdays.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Summer weekends fill quickly at most campgrounds. "If camping on weekends May to September will need to book in advanced," advises Nathan E. about Lithia Springs. Planning 3-6 months ahead is recommended for holiday weekends.
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds have limited operations during winter. Forrest W. Bo Wood operates from "April 17 to October 26" according to their listing information, typical of many Army Corps of Engineers sites in the region.
Bug considerations: Summer brings insects, especially in the evenings. "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. about Bo Wood campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground amenities: Okaw Valley Kampground features family-friendly facilities. "The pool, the lake, the gigantic playground, the pavilion, the laundromat, the location, the cleanliness in the bathhouse, the gardens… the hosts Barb and Gary work their asses off to upkeep this place," writes Michael L.
Weekend activities: Several campgrounds offer organized family events during peak season. "We went 4th of July weekend and they even had a golf cart parade and through candy which was so fun for our son," shares Sara W. about Robin Hood Woods.
Swimming options: Many families appreciate the beach areas for cooling off. "Lithia Springs recreation area near Shelbyville, IL. On Lake Shelbyville has so many things to offer. This is one of my favorite places on the lake for boating, swimming and group camping," explains Michael M.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of amenities. "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 for the sites on the point," advises Michael M. about Lithia Springs.
Site selection considerations: Many reviewers note the importance of choosing the right site type. "Most of the sites are large and a good distance from the next one. Shower house is alright," writes Jennifer G. about Stephen A. Forbes State Park, adding that "Most of the sites are large and a good distance from the next one."
Water access planning: RVers should prepare for varying water availability. "Nice park, spacious sites, bring plenty of water hose. The water faucets for fill up can be a bit far away," advises Nathaniel K. about Wolf Creek State Park Campground, a consideration for those seeking yurt camping near Mode, Illinois.
