Spring Lake Park and surrounding campgrounds near Timewell, Illinois offer diverse accommodation options including cabins, tents, and RVs. The area features several water bodies within a 30-mile radius, making it popular for boating and fishing. Temperatures range from 50-85°F during the peak camping season from April through October, with occasional spring thunderstorms and humidity in summer months.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Spring Lake Park maintains miles of well-kept trails encircling the lake with minimal elevation changes. "The trails go all over the entire park! Clean showering facilities," notes a visitor at Spring Lake Park.
Fishing opportunities: Both casual and serious anglers can enjoy multiple fishing spots. Crazy Horse Campground offers "2 catch and release ponds" according to one camper who adds that the grounds are "well kept" with "plenty of pull thru sites" and good shade from numerous trees at Crazy Horse Campground.
Seasonal water recreation: Many campgrounds offer water activities during warmer months. At Yogi Bears Jellystone Park, one visitor mentions that "Lake blow ups are included in price, but you must have a life vest. Bring your own to save money." Another notes they "Came when all the water activities were closed for the season. Cannot wait to come back!"
What campers like
Affordable options: Spring Lake Park offers reasonable rates compared to similar facilities in the region. One camper shared, "It's the most reasonably priced campsite that we have found so far" while another mentioned the "CHEAP primitive camping" available at Spring Lake Park.
Family-friendly environments: Many sites cater specifically to families with children. At Yogi Bears Jellystone Park at Pine Lakes, a visitor noted it's "Great for a family with kids of all ages. The activities are not all day, so plan on some campside entertainment before 10am and after 6pm."
Quieter alternatives: For those seeking less commercialized experiences, Schuy-Rush Park offers a more tranquil setting. "We were fortunate to find this quiet campground just south of Rushville. Friendly staff, clean restroom & showers," reports one camper about this lesser-known option.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Spring Lake Park, one camper advises, "They don't take reservations but while it is usually full you can still get a spot," while at other locations like Schuy-Rush Park, a visitor noted the "friendly staff" and mentioned they "will definitely stay here again."
Primitive yurt camping options: While true yurt camping near Timewell, Illinois is limited, primitive sites at Spring Lake Park offer a comparable immersive experience. "I've camped here several times at the primitive sites. It's a decent hike in but once you get there, the view of the lake is worth it," reports one visitor.
Seasonal closures: Facilities operate on different schedules. Great River Road Campground runs from April to October with limited amenities. One camper described it as "Good enough for an overnight" with "No frills camping on the edge of the fairgrounds" and noted "Don't expect any privacy or shade here as there are no trees."
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Plan around organized events at family-focused campgrounds. At Jellystone Park, a visitor advises: "The activities are not all day, so plan on some campside entertainment before 10am and after 6pm. Lake blow ups are included in price, but you must have a life vest."
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds are livelier than others. One camper at Crazy Horse Campground noted it's "definitely a heavy-drinking crowd" with "live music on the weekend" but still rated it highly as "my family LOVES this campground!"
Budget considerations: Factor in additional costs beyond site fees. At Jellystone Park, a visitor advised it's "Nice family fun but pricey" and suggested to "Bring your own [life vest] to save money" while noting it's "Well worth it if you plan ahead for the extra fees."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose appropriate sites based on your RV size. One RVer at Spring Lake Park suggests you "Need reservation with larger campers" while another mentions many "simi-annual residents" occupy prime spots but "there are still several nice, quiet, shady spots to be found."
Hook-up availability: Verify what utilities are available. At Schuy-Rush Park, RVers appreciate the clean facilities and quiet atmosphere, with one noting it's "quiet and peaceful. Not a lot to do but they are trying. Tent camping, RV and a few cabin rentals, boat docks too where you can bring your boat!"
Connectivity concerns: Cell service varies significantly. One RVer at Crazy Horse Campground reported "No Verizon wireless service here or anywhere for about a 45 mile radius" while mentioning "AT&T wireless service" does work, an important consideration for those needing to stay connected.
