Camping options near Windsor, Illinois provide convenient access to Lake Shelbyville, a 11,100-acre reservoir with over 172 miles of shoreline. Most campsites in the region sit at approximately 600 feet elevation, with summer temperatures typically ranging between 75-90°F. The camping season runs primarily from April through October, though some sites experience heavy flooding during spring rainy periods.
What to do
Fishing on the reservoir: Lake Shelbyville offers excellent fishing opportunities, particularly at Spring Creek Campground where campers can enjoy the small fishing pond. "This is a small family owned campground. It has a pond for fishing, no boating or swimming," notes Jessi R., while Sonya A. mentions that Bo Wood provides "nice big spacious sites! Reserve early to get full hookup! Right on lake Shelbyville."
Hiking nearby trails: Wolf Creek State Park features hiking trails suitable for families looking for shorter excursions. "There are several miles of horse trails and the area is set apart from hiking trails and the other camping areas," explains Michael M., who recommends "visiting in the fall after Labor Day, October when leaves are changing is my favorite time for this campground."
Water recreation: Beyond fishing, kayaking and swimming are popular at Coon Creek. "Lake Shelbyville has everything: biking, hiking, a beach, fishing and the town has a small movie theater showing current movies for $4.00," writes Ronald B. The swimming areas are generally open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with some beach closures during high water conditions.
What campers like
Quieter locations: Many campers appreciate the more secluded campgrounds for overnight stays. At Spring Creek Campground, Jeri B. describes it as "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."
Level campsites: RV camping near Windsor, Illinois benefits from well-maintained, level sites at most campgrounds. James C. notes that at Spring Creek Campground, "All spots are back in. All have electricity but only a few have water. There are clean restrooms with free showers. There is a central dumping station upon exit. At $25 per night, this place is beautiful."
Amenities for families: Robin Hood Woods Campground offers features particularly appealing to families. Sarah S. reports it's a "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. Pavilion and picnic area near pool and playground perfect for family gatherings or kids birthdays."
What you should know
Seasonal crowding patterns: Summer weekends draw significant crowds to Lake Shelbyville campgrounds. A camper at Camp Lakewood mentions, "We stayed just one night and will do so again if near Effingham. The location is great off the interstate and is close to Walmart, restaurants, etc if you need anything. Gravel sites and level. Big shade trees."
Limited cell service: Some campgrounds have spotty cellular reception. At Kaskaskia Dragon RV Park, Kaitlynn B. reports, "Long spots, friendly owner, easy access to hardware store across the street, coin laundry available. Downsides is wifi is poor, gravel is unlevel, limited menu on DoorDash."
Insect issues: Evening insects can be problematic, especially in summer months. One camper at Forrest W. Bo Wood Recreation Area notes, "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 for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playground facilities for children. At Robin Hood Woods Campground, Tina H. found that "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. You can also rent golf carts."
Beach options: Lake Shelbyville offers swimming beaches adjacent to several campgrounds. Crystal at Coon Creek 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 while my kiddos were hunting for more frogs."
Weekend activities: Some campgrounds schedule organized events for children. Sara W. mentions that at Robin Hood Woods, "We went 4th of July weekend and they even had a golf cart parade and through candy which was so fun for our son. We'll always visit here."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RVers should research site layouts when booking. At Kaskaskia Dragon RV Park, tracey S. notes it's "as advertised. Staff super nice over the phone, easy pull in, hook ups easy. We called ahead, but arrived after hours, no problems."
Access and maneuverability: Some campgrounds have challenging navigation for larger rigs. At Camp Lakewood, one RVer mentions, "The road to our site had a tight turn and required a little maneuvering but not terrible." Rick notes the campground has "nice set up, but lots are tight with winding roads to sites."
Off-season availability: Fall camping offers less crowded conditions and cooler temperatures. At Bo Wood, Monica R. explains it's "an Army Co of Engineers park. Plenty of full hook ups and tent camping spots. Most by the lake. Well kept with bathroom and shower facilities, a playground and laundry."
