Coon Creek (Il)
4.59216 reviews1989 State Hwy 16, Shelbyville, IL, 62565-9378, USA
Coon Creek (Il)
$18.00 - $48.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
Hookup Site Fee$48.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Site fees range from $18 to $48 per night for standard electric and tent-only electric sites. Discounts may be available for Interagency Senior or Access Pass holders, providing 50% off site fees.
About this campground
Nestled along the sun-dappled western shores of Lake Shelbyville, Coon Creek Campground offers an idyllic retreat for families seeking the perfect blend of nature and comfort in central Illinois. This expansive lakeside haven invites you to unwind beneath towering canopies while enjoying modern amenities including hot showers, flush restrooms, and a welcoming playground where children's laughter mingles with birdsong. Adventure awaits at your doorstep with direct access to a sandy swimming beach and convenient boat launch, while the well-maintained dump station ensures a hassle-free stay for RV enthusiasts.
Coon Creek offers a mix of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites with full hookups, and group camping areas. Approximately 50% of the 181 campsites are reservable.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Coon Creek transforms into a vibrant outdoor playground where warm sunshine beckons swimmers to the lake's refreshing waters and hikers to explore winding trails. As autumn arrives, the campground becomes a photographer's paradise, with the surrounding forest erupting in a spectacular display of crimson, gold, and amber hues that reflect brilliantly off the lake's surface.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral of towering oak and hickory trees that create a natural umbrella over the campground, offering blessed relief from summer's heat. Spring awakens the landscape with delicate prairie wildflowers painting the meadows in soft pastels, while summer brings a lush green tapestry punctuated by bursts of colorful blooms. Come fall, this woodland sanctuary transforms into a kaleidoscope of autumn colors. Early morning visitors often encounter white-tailed deer grazing in the misty dawn, while playful squirrels and cottontail rabbits provide endless entertainment. Keep watch along the shoreline for muskrats gliding through the calm waters at dusk.
Geological RegionPerched on Lake Shelbyville's picturesque western shoreline, this central Illinois gem showcases the region's diverse ecosystem where ancient oak-hickory forests meet remnants of tallgrass prairie. The landscape tells a story of transformation through the seasons - from the delicate wildflower displays that carpet the prairie patches each spring and summer to the breathtaking autumn spectacle when the mature hardwood forest sets the hillsides ablaze with color.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible flush toilets and shower facilities are available. Some sites have easy access to the lake and are described as accommodating for families and individuals with mobility needs.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating everything from tents to Class A rigs. Many sites are spacious, as highlighted by reviews mentioning "large sites" and "plenty of room to park our boat along side our camper."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; several reviewers describe campsites as "secluded" or "spacious," while others note that certain sites are positioned awkwardly, impacting privacy.
Total Campsites181 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with full hookups if needing water and sewer connections. Sites along the lake offer better views and access but may have steep banks.
Best CampsitesSites 130, 181, and 217 are recommended for their shade, proximity to water, and spaciousness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
5PM
Check-out
4PM
Stay Limit
14 nights during a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One RV and three tents or four tents per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are grouped into loops, including ALEG, BLEG, CLEG, DLEG, ELEG, FLEG, GLEG, and HLEG.
Open and Closed SeasonOpens May 1, 2025, and closes October 12, 2025. Reservations are available from June 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, contact center, or app.
Walk-in AvailabilityApproximately 50% of sites are first-come, first-served; however, availability may be limited during peak times such as weekends.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the check-in date, incurring a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiting the first night's recreation fee for cancellations made after midnight on the day before arrival.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Coon Creek provides a wide range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Many reviews highlight the lake as a perfect hub for water recreation, such as kayaking and paddleboarding. User feedback often emphasizes the availability of a beach area and a 0.7-mile nature trail.
Hiking
The campground features a 0.7-mile nature trail, which users describe as enjoyable but sometimes overgrown. One review specifically mentioned, "The nature trail within the campground was completely overgrown."Fishing
Fishing opportunities abound, with Lake Shelbyville hosting species like catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, muskie, walleye, white bass, and bluegill. Reviews describe fishing as a popular activity despite occasional slow catches.Swimming
A designated swimming beach is available, described as clean and enjoyable. Reviews suggest visiting during less crowded times, such as mornings or early afternoons.Boating
Boating facilities include a boat ramp and courtesy dock, which are highly appreciated by users. Some reviews noted challenges, such as steep access ramps.Wildlife viewing
Numerous wildlife species can be observed, including white-tail deer and songbirds. Reviews often highlight the abundance of animals and the beauty of the natural surroundings.Beach activities
Beach activities are popular, with users praising the cleanliness and safety of the area. Shared life jackets for children are available.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities on Lake Shelbyville, as highlighted in user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed on-site but must use locally obtained firewood to prevent spreading pests.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep banks may pose challenges for accessing the lake from certain sites. Wildlife such as deer ticks may be present.
Weather forecast
53
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 82%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are located in Shelbyville, including Shelby Memorial Hospital and local police and fire stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to October 12.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, although detailed information about pickup schedules and specific locations is not provided.
Proximity to water featuresSituated on Lake Shelbyville's western shore. A boat ramp and swimming beach are available within the campground.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention litter, such as cigarette butts and bottle caps, left by previous campers. Sites are occasionally reported as uneven or having unusual layouts.
HostHosts are noted for being helpful and friendly, with specific mentions of host Gary.
Campground Map
1989 State Hwy 16, Shelbyville, IL, 62565-9378, USA
Driving directionsFrom Shelbyville, Illinois: Go 4.5 miles north of Shelbyville on State Route 128 to County Road 1750 N. Turn right (east) and drive 0.9 miles to County Road 1900 E. Make a left (north) and go 0.35 mile to County Road 1785 N. Turn right (east) and drive 1.75 miles to County Road 2075 E. Turn right (south) and go 1.7 miles to the facility.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, and its proximity to major state routes makes it accessible year-round. However, some users have noted tight turnarounds within the campground that may be challenging for trailers over 25 feet.Nearby places
Shelbyville (4.5 miles), Decatur (approximately 30 miles), Effingham (approximately 40 miles), Champaign (approximately 60 miles)
Nearby supplies
A small store near the campground entrance provides essential camping supplies and items like firewood and ice cream. Shelbyville offers a broader range of supplies, groceries, and fuel options.
Camper Reviews
4.6
216 reviews
Coon Creek (Il) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Coon Creek receives highly positive feedback for its cleanliness, accessibility, and family-friendly atmosphere. Many reviewers highlight spacious campsites, clean facilities, and the abundance of recreational activities.
Review Summaries
Based on 216 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, spacious sites, beautiful lake access, friendly staff, and a well-maintained environment are frequently noted.
Based on 216 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues include sites being uneven or poorly designed, lack of sufficient water hookups, occasional litter left by previous campers, and concerns about noise levels during peak times.
Based on 216 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to avoid crowds at the beach, bring hand soap for the restrooms, and check site layouts in advance to ensure compatibility with your needs.
Based on 216 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that summer is the busiest time, with crowded weekends but quieter weekdays. Fall receives positive feedback for its scenic foliage and reduced crowds.
Based on 216 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Cleanest shower houses I've ever seen." "Beautiful campground with access to the lake for paddle boarding." "Great place to camp. Lots of great sites to pick from."
Based on 216 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 181 was noted for awkward placement of amenities, impacting usability. Site 130 was praised for being perfect for families, with ample shade and proximity to restrooms. Site 221 received glowing...
Based on 216 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible flush toilets and showers are frequently mentioned. Some campsites provide easier access to the lake compared to others.
Based on 216 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground is described as dog-friendly, with plenty of space for walking and playing.
Based on 216 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025