Lake Shelbyville offers cabin rentals near Savoy, Illinois with unique terrain features shaped by glaciers that dropped mountains of soil in the region. The forested hills and creek beds contrast dramatically with the surrounding flat farmland. The lake water stays unusually warm due to discharge from a nearby nuclear plant, making it comfortable for swimming later in the season than other lakes.
What to do
Geocaching adventures: Coon Creek Campground on Lake Shelbyville provides numerous geocaching opportunities around the lake. "Lake Shelbyville has everything: biking, hiking, a beach, fishing and the town has a small movie theater showing current movies for $4.00," notes Ronald B.
Equestrian trails: Wolf Creek State Park is one of the only state parks in Illinois with dedicated horse camping and riding trails. "The park is huge and is one of the only state park's in Illinois with horse camping and horse trails. There are 13 horse camp sites and additional trailer parking for about 6 more rigs with tie out posts for riders that will not be camping," explains Michael M.
Local boating options: Visitors staying at cabin rentals can rent boats from nearby marinas. "Clinton Lake is a boating destination as the waters are unusually warm due to the discharge from the nearby nuclear plant," reports Stacia R. from Clinton Lake State Recreation Area. Pontoon boats are particularly popular for lake cruising.
What campers like
Private lake access: Many cabins and sites provide direct water access. "We chose a buddy site even though we weren't camping with another family because we like the location. It was right at the end of the peninsula... There are several paths down to the waters edge and the beach," writes Melissa B. about her experience at Coon Creek.
Fall foliage viewing: October cabin stays offer spectacular autumn colors. "I recommend visiting in the fall after Labor Day, October when leaves are changing is my favorite time for this campground," says Michael M. about Wolf Creek State Park Campground. The park offers unique hiking through colorful tree canopies when temperatures cool.
Secluded sites: For visitors seeking privacy in cabin areas, Fox Ridge provides natural separation. "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," describes Allen S.
What you should know
Off-season considerations: Water access becomes limited during winter months. "Water was turned off for winter which wasn't entirely clear. The RV fill was shutdown too. Water option we're the lake or a 30 min drive into town for bottled," warns Matthew I. from Clinton Lake State Recreation Area.
Varied site layouts: The campgrounds feature distinct areas with different feels. "The different loops have very different feels...some are very shaded in the trees, some more wide open with a prairie type view," explains Stacia R. about Clinton Lake. This applies to cabin areas as well, with some more private than others.
Bathroom facility fluctuations: Quality and accessibility of facilities vary by season and location. "The restroom near our site, #13, was open, but no lights and no shower," reports Fran S. about Fox Ridge State Park Campground. Winter visitors should verify which amenities remain operational before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Heat management strategies: The dense tree cover in cabin areas can block cooling breezes. "Almost every site has plenty of shade with lots of tree cover. This also means in the dog days of summer the breeze is blocked by the trees so get an electric site even with a tent and bring a fan," advises Marisa A.
Bug protection planning: Evening insects can interfere with outdoor meals at cabin sites. "The only thing I would say is make sure that you bring a screen tent for eating outside as the bugs really get bad at night," recommends Melissa B. about Coon Creek.
Affordable entertainment options: Families can supplement cabin stays with budget-friendly local attractions. "Lake Shelbyville has everything: biking, hiking, a beach, fishing and the town has a small movie theater showing current movies for $4.00," notes Ronald B. Several campgrounds offer junior ranger programs during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Extended hookup cords: Some utility connections require longer than standard hookups. "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.
Trash disposal planning: Dumpster locations can be inconveniently positioned. "My only complaint would be that the trash dumpsters are too far away from the camping areas," notes Lori W. Cabin guests should bring collapsible wagons or prepare for longer walks to disposal areas.
Camp store conveniences: Some locations offer unexpected services beyond basic supplies. "The camp store at Mill Creek Park stocks essential items and firewood. "Incredible people who will gladly be your new best friend, super clean, Great Lake to be on, tons of trails to hike," shares Kyler F.
