Lake Shelbyville offers diverse camping sites near Shelbyville, Illinois, with year-round options across its 11,100-acre reservoir. Spanning 172 miles of shoreline at 599 feet above sea level, the lake serves as a central feature for multiple camping areas. Water temperatures typically reach 80°F in summer, creating prime conditions for water recreation and shoreline camping from April through October.
What to do
Hike the Chief Illini Trail: This 12-mile moderate to difficult trail connects Lone Point to Eagle Creek State Park Campground. "There is a building with men's and women's flush toilets here for both primitive campgrounds," notes Michael M., who highlights the "Chief Illini trailhead here and makes for nice round trip hiking camping adventures."
Fish at disabled-accessible areas: The fishing pond at Opossum Creek is specially designed for accessibility. "The disabled fishing pond is well stocked so it is easy for wheel chair bound fishermen to catch their daily quota," explains Michael M., who recommends the area for visitors wanting to "take in the Shelbyville lake town experience."
Attend ranger events: Bo Wood offers organized activities for younger campers. As Patricia D. describes: "There is a boat ramp on the grounds also the playground there's a dog park there is also a little amphitheater. I believe I was told the Rangers do events for the kids."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Primitive camping areas provide more solitude than RV sections. At Wolf Creek State Park Campground, Sadie R. notes: "We are tent people and love primitive camping in spots where we can really be away from everyone and at least pretend like we're alone. Rolling in in the dark, we weren't motivated to checkout the walk-in campsites."
Dog-friendly facilities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated spaces for pets. Ryne T. highlights Bo Wood: "This campground has a dog park and beautiful views, but the sites are very crowded. There are full hook up sites and electric only."
Beach access: Several campgrounds offer swimming options. Ronald B. gave Coon Creek 5 stars noting, "Lake Shelbyville has everything: biking, hiking, a beach, fishing and the town has a small movie theater showing current movies for $4.00."
What you should know
Campground seasonality varies: While some locations close after Labor Day, others remain open through late October or year-round. Sarah S. mentions about Robin Hood Woods Campground & Cottage Resort: "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."
Reservations essential for holiday weekends: Holiday periods fill quickly. MeriLee B. shares her Lone Point experience: "Great weekend except for the rain this morning. Can't say enough about the hosts at this campground they are wonderful! They came through this morning during the storms just to check on the tent campers on their day off!"
Hunting seasons affect access: Fall visitors should note hunting activities. Michael M. warns: "This park is open year round so the fantastic camping in spring and fall are available. You should watch out for hunters in the area when bow season starts October 1st."
Tips for camping with families
Choose buddy sites for group camping: Some locations have sites designed for multiple families. Melissa B. explains at Coon Creek: "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, and it is by far the biggest and beautiful site we have ever stayed in."
Look for designated swimming areas: Not all lake access points are suitable for swimming. Crystal notes about Coon Creek: "I enjoyed our Site #14. There was a path behind our site that led to a private 'beach'. Brought my camp chair down the path, and enjoyed my coffee enjoying the lake view while my kiddos were hunting for more frogs."
Pack for insects: Evening bugs can be problematic around the lake. Austin-Tarra G. shares this warning about Bo Wood: "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."
Tips from RVers
Select sites based on hookup needs: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of utilities. Josh H. notes about Lithia Springs: "Nice place to stay. Camp hosts are great. AT&T has good phone service. Only one dumpster for trash and it's at the entrance to the campground. Shower house is clean and well maintained."
Consider site spacing: Some camping areas have tighter layouts than others. Lori W. observes about Wolf Creek: "The keepers are super friendly and accommodating. Most lots are spacious. My only complaint would be that the trash dumpsters are too far away from the camping areas."
Check site leveling: Uneven sites can present challenges. Kathie M. notes about Lithia Springs: "Really nice campground on the shore of Lake Shelbyville. Electric, showers, laundry, playground, nice beach, volleyball and some phenomenal sites right on shore. Well kept, sites with asphalt drive, fire pit and lantern hook."
