Lake Shelbyville offers diverse camping options near Sullivan, Illinois, with multiple recreation areas managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The reservoir covers 11,100 acres with 172 miles of shoreline, creating numerous waterfront camping opportunities. Winter camping is limited at most campgrounds, with seasonal closures typically occurring from late October through mid-April.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Shelbyville supports multiple fish species including crappie, bass, and catfish. At D & W Lake RV Park, campers can enjoy a private fishing lake. "The lake behind our trailer is beautiful and can be fished Catch and Release with Blue Gill and Bass," notes Luna L.
Trail exploration: Several campgrounds connect to hiking and biking trails. At Wolf Creek State Park, visitors have access to both the campground trails and nearby Eagle Creek State Park. "We woke up and took a little hike down to Shelby Reservoir to see what was around. We were at campsite 18 and it was about 10 min hike down over there," shares Sadie R.
Boating access: Most campgrounds provide boat ramps for easy water access. "Lithia Springs Marina offers boat rentals, we usually get a 12 person pontoon boat for few days, to cruise the 26 mile long lake, or chill in one of many beautiful coves," explains Meg S. about boating near Coon Creek.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campsites offer direct lake access or views. At Coon Creek, Crystal reports, "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."
Spacious campsites: Several campgrounds feature generous site dimensions. At Bo Wood, Bran P. notes: "Great campground, big but didn't feel 'big'. Excellent place to ride bikes; didn't venture on lake but it was beautiful. Bo Wood is on north end of lake and is the quiet side."
Pet amenities: Dog-friendly facilities are available at multiple RV campgrounds near Sullivan, Illinois. "There's plenty of grass, Fire Pits, Playgrounds and a Dog Park," reports Luna L. about D & W Lake RV Park. The Bo Wood Recreation Area features separated dog parks for large and small dogs, though patricia D. mentions they can be "a long walk from the campground."
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Campsite characteristics vary throughout the area. At Spring Creek Campground, James C. advises: "All spots are back in. All have electricity but only a few have water. There are clean restrooms with free showers."
Reservation timing: Peak season requires advance planning. Wolf Creek State Park has 309 sites with 141 available for reservation. The remaining sites operate on first-come, first-serve basis, but Heidi notes: "I was surprised when I arrived that there wasn't a ranger, host, or campground office to check in with. There was a self registration kiosk."
Off-season limitations: Service levels change seasonally. "Part of the campground is open after Labor Day, but the main season is Memorial day to Labor day," Michael M. explains about Coon Creek. Services like bathhouses may close during cooler months.
Tips for camping with families
Beach accessibility: Several campgrounds offer swimming options. Melissa B. shares about 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...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 liked to swim."
Playground options: Kid-friendly amenities vary between campgrounds. "There is a playground in the shade next to a pavilion," mentions Jessi R. about Spring Creek Campground. This family-owned campground also offers fishing without swimming or boating.
Bug protection: Evening insects can be problematic. "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," warns Melissa B. about Coon Creek. Some campers report significant insect activity, especially after sunset.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV campsites vary in grade across the area. At Forrest W. Bo Wood Recreation Area, campers find "nice big spacious sites," according to Sonya A., who advises to "reserve early to get full hookup!"
Pull-through availability: Site accessibility differs between campgrounds. The Tin Cup RV Park offers pull-through sites for overnight travelers. Bill B. from Percival Springs RV Campground notes: "Huge pull thru sites for about 4 rigs. Lots of grass for 4 legged friends."
Hookup variations: Utility connections differ between campgrounds and loops. Ryne T. describes his Bo Wood experience: "Our FHU site was very easy to access and a very level well graveled site. The site is full shade and wooded with a nice fire pit and lantern post. It is spaced well and you face the lake, so the camper blocks any noise from the rest of the loop."
