Lake Shelbyville dominates the camping landscape near Sullivan, Illinois, with several well-maintained Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds situated along its 172 miles of shoreline. The lake spans 11,100 acres with water levels typically highest in spring and early summer. Campsites range from primitive tent areas to full-hookup RV sites, with summer temperatures averaging 80-90°F during peak camping season from May through September.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lithia Springs offers excellent fishing access with a marina nearby for boat rentals. "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.
Water recreation: At Coon Creek, campers enjoy direct water access. "There are several paths down to the waters edge and the beach, lots of little hiking, tons of Geocaching, and a great little beach That my son really like to swim and even if we thought it was a little dirty. Very warm water," shares Melissa B.
Hiking trails: The 12-mile Chief Illini Trail connects Lone Point to Eagle Creek along the lakeshore. Michael M. describes it as "moderate to difficult hiking" with the trailhead located in the parking area at Lone Point. "The trail is open year round and can be hiked from one end to the other spending a night at either campground for return trip the next day."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Opossum Creek offers room to spread out. "We stayed on site 39. Quiet view of woods and part of cove. Plenty of parking and can walk down to the lake," reports Teri M., who adds, "Even got our kayaks to the water not far from our campsite which was a bonus!"
Tent camping locations: Tent campers appreciate the elevated sites at Lone Point with lake views. "We had a small, narrow, and very steep path to a beach area that was great for exploring and building rock formations. We even caught the sunset on the beach that night," shares Melissa B.
Quiet atmosphere: For those seeking a less crowded pet friendly camping experience near Sullivan, Lithia Springs provides a peaceful environment. One camper notes, "This campground is well spaced and offers both privacy and full hook ups. In addition there is a marina in walking distance and it is a short drive to the Dam Project Office and Visitor Center."
What you should know
Seasonal bug activity: Similar to other Lake Shelbyville campgrounds, Forrest W. Bo Wood experiences insect issues after dark. "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.
Reservation requirements: Most Corps of Engineers campgrounds near Sullivan require advance booking, especially during summer. "This campground is very busy in the prime camping season, but if you are camping with a group and have a boat this is the place to go," explains Michael M. about Coon Creek.
Off-season availability: Opossum Creek's boat ramp and disabled/children's fishing pond remain open year-round, though the campground generally operates Memorial Day to Labor Day. Debra M. notes there are "81 sites in total, 17 tent with electric, 17 full hook up and the remaining are electric RV sites."
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