Crystal Springs Lake

Kayaking and fishing draw campers to Crystal Springs Lake, a municipally managed campground outside Fairbury that sits alongside three spring-fed lakes. The water is the main draw here. Snapping turtles are abundant in the lakes, which means swimming is not recommended, but paddlers and anglers use the water regularly without issue.

Sites are level and mostly sunny, each equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. Full hookups are available, including 30 and 50 amp electric, water, and sewer connections, and reviewers with large rigs report that a 38-foot fifth wheel fits comfortably with room to spare. A dump station is also on site. Even when the lower campground fills up, noise tends to stay low. James B. notes it was "quiet" despite the lower campground being "pretty full."

Showers and bathrooms are on site and have been noted as clean, though campers should bring their own hand towels. A friendly camp host is typically present during the season, which runs from early May through mid-October. Nearby alternatives include Buckley Creek to the southwest and Rock Creek Campground to the east, both within roughly eight miles. Arriving with a kayak or fishing gear makes the most of what Crystal Springs has to offer.