Campgrounds near Neoga, Illinois feature diverse terrain from lakeside settings to forested retreats. The region experiences distinct four seasons with summer temperatures averaging 80-90°F, making May through October the prime camping season. While some campgrounds close during winter months, others remain open year-round with reduced amenities during colder weather.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Coon Creek, campers can enjoy bank fishing or bring boats for deeper water access. "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.
Swimming: Several campgrounds offer water recreation during summer months. At Possum Creek Campground in Hidden Springs State Forest, the natural setting provides a peaceful retreat with "nice ponds for fishing that are unmarked," according to Lucas T. The $8 fee for tent or RV camping makes it one of the most affordable options in the area.
Local exploration: The town of Shelbyville offers affordable entertainment options when taking a break from camping activities. According to one Coon Creek visitor, "There are several paths down to the waters edge and the beach, lots of little hiking, tons of Geocaching, and a great little beach."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Spring Creek Campground in Montrose receives praise for its peaceful atmosphere. "This is one of the most beautiful campgrounds I've been in in a long time. It's small, owned by an older farmer, has electricity and bathrooms. It's on a couple of small lakes and the bird sounds, the frogs, ducks, the whole natural environment is just wonderful," shares Jeri B.
Lakeside views: Many campers appreciate direct access to Lake Shelbyville from their sites. At Coon Creek, Crystal notes, "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."
Quiet locations: Several campgrounds in the area are set back from major highways. For campers seeking tranquility, Lakeside RV Campground offers a "small secluded campground" environment according to Reann C., who adds it's "very clean and quiet" and is "home of the white squirrel!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Robin Hood Woods Campground, seasonal sites have a waiting list due to popularity. One visitor mentioned, "We stayed in the rental cabins, but are on the waiting list for a seasonal site."
Insect preparation: Evening mosquitoes can be problematic at some locations. A Coon Creek camper advises, "Make sure that you bring a screen tent for eating outside as the bugs really get bad at night."
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies between campgrounds. While Camp Lakewood receives praise for "amazingly clean" bathrooms, some locations have more basic facilities. At Possum Creek, one camper noted, "I was a bit bothered by one of the on site toilets, but it is like that in most campgrounds."
Site layouts: Many RV sites throughout the region are closely spaced. Terry from Robin Hood Woods observed, "Sites are a little too close. Trees in the shaded spots don't allow you to put your awning out."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Camp Lakewood provides family-friendly amenities including a playground. "Great place 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. Pavilion and picnic area near pool and playground perfect for family gatherings," according to Sarah S.
Consider buddy sites: For family gatherings, Coon Creek offers specialized arrangements. One visitor shares, "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."
Plan for entertainment: Robin Hood Woods offers activities specifically for children. Tina H. reports, "Took grandkids there for the day. There's a pool, playground, fishing pond and small arcade room. You can rent a peddle type cart that holds 4 people who all peddle. They really loved them."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Percival Springs RV Campground, RVers appreciate the spacious pull-through options. "Huge pull thru sites for about 4 rigs. Lots of grass for 4 legged friends," notes Bill B., who described it as a "Good Stop N Go" for overnight stays.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. At Camp Lakewood, Sharon J. reports, "The road to our site had a tight turn and required a little maneuvering but not terrible."
Utility connections: Water access varies between campgrounds. At Spring Creek Campground, James C. explains, "All spots are back in. All have electricity but only a few have water. There is a central dumping station upon exit."
Local amenities: For RV travelers needing supplies, Kaskaskia Dragon RV Park in Vandalia offers convenient access to nearby stores. Kaitlynn B. mentions it has "long spots, friendly owner, easy access to hardware store across the street, coin laundry available."
