Camping around Savoy, Illinois offers options across mostly flat terrain at approximately 700 feet elevation. The area experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers, cold winters, and particularly pleasant spring and fall camping conditions when temperatures range from 50-75°F. Most campgrounds maintain several miles of hiking trails that wind through both forested areas and restored prairie environments.
What to do
Hiking at Middle Fork River Forest Preserve: Located about 30 minutes from Savoy, this preserve features diverse trail options including the Oak Burl trail with creek crossings. "The hiking here is interesting! The Oak Burl trail is mostly wooded. We came upon a 8" deep creek to cross (thanks small tree branch to walk across!). We found little offshoots to spots along the Middle Fork River," notes a visitor to Harry L Swartz Campground.
Lake Shelbyville water activities: Several campgrounds offer direct lake access for boating, swimming and fishing. "We put in our kayaks on the boat ramp and enjoyed a nice paddle on a portion of the Shelbyville Lake," mentions one camper at Forrest W. Bo Wood. The lake stays unusually warm during summer months due to thermal discharge from a nearby power plant.
Stargazing opportunities: The region includes designated dark sky areas perfect for astronomy. "Since the campground is right next to a Dark Sky Park, stargazing is amazing if you have good weather," explains a visitor who witnessed a meteor viewing party at Harry L Swartz Campground.
What campers like
Natural diversity and trails: The mix of restored prairie and woodland environments provides varied experiences. At Friends Creek Campground, visitors appreciate "Great trails with lots of gorgeous old oaks. The old school house is a must see." Another reviewer notes it offers "nice spacious sites and super clean bathhouses and pit toilets...We hiked a bit on the trails and played in the creek."
Private, spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites with natural separation. "The camp spaces are spaced far apart for privacy," reports one visitor about Friends Creek. Similarly, at D & W Lake RV Park, campers enjoy "plenty of grass, Fire Pits, Playgrounds and a Dog Park. Wonderful campground and only about 10 min from downtown."
Yurt camping near Savoy: Wolf Creek State Park offers distinctive yurt accommodations combining canvas walls with solid floors. "Enjoy the many beautiful shady spots and a few full hooks. The shower houses are very clean and a really nice big beach," notes a camper at Wolf Creek State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most locations operate from April through November, with limited winter availability. At Clinton Lake State Recreation Area, one winter visitor noted, "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."
Reservation requirements: Specific site assignment varies by campground. At Friends Creek, "if you reserve a camping spot it's just to have a site. Specific campsites aren't reserved. Get here early and you have your choice."
Bug conditions: Some locations experience significant insect activity, particularly in evening hours. "Our biggest issue with this campsite was the extensive bugs, once the sun goes down the bugs get horribly bad," warns a Bo Wood camper. "We let our dogs out past 8 p.m. and our camper was covered with swarms of psychodidae(sewer) flies."
Tips for camping with families
Beach and swimming options: Several parks offer designated swimming areas with amenities. Clinton Lake has "a really nice beach for swimming and picnics," and "a small swimming area with a beach, playground, mini library, and shower house" can be found at Harry L Swartz Campground.
Playground facilities: Multiple locations feature child-friendly recreation areas. D & W Lake RV Park provides "plenty of grass, Fire Pits, Playgrounds and a Dog Park," while another visitor notes the "theater stage is found along a hiking path that starts near the camp host. Perhaps your family can put on a play."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers excellent wildlife observation possibilities. "Filled with poison ivy, etc, so long pants recommended when walking through," cautions one Clinton Lake visitor about lakeside paths. Another adds, "There is tons of deer and other animals to watch and watch out that they don't steal your food while you are sleeping."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric options vary significantly between campgrounds. At Friends Creek, "there are 50 amp sites and 30 amp sites. The 50 amp sites are more expensive," explains one RVer. Many campgrounds offer water spigots throughout but not at individual sites.
Site leveling considerations: Terrain varies across the region. "Some sites are very private, others are closer together. 42 - 47 had a lot of vegetation between them and were very private," notes a Harry L Swartz visitor, while at Clinton Lake "some camping areas are more wooded than others and those also seem to fill up fast."
Dump station access: Most locations offer sanitary disposal but with limited locations. Friends Creek provides "electric only sites however there are several water spigots to fill the tank prior to parking. For ease, there are even potable water spigots at the dump station."
