Beach Camping in Illinois

Beach Camping in Illinois

Discover the best beach camping across Illinois. Camp where the land meets the water. Ocean breezes, sandy shores, and stunning sunsets await.

20+ Campgrounds4.5★ AverageBest: May - September
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Beach Camping in Other States

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Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Sullivan Marina And Campground
Photo coming soon
Star
4.7
(97)
Sullivan Marina And Campground
Shelbyville
Lake Shelbyville

Pitch your tent steps from Lake Shelbyville's shimmering waters, where a dedicated swimming beach and full-service marina put you moments from morning paddleboard sessions and afternoon boat launches.

Tents
RVs
2
Forrest W. Bo Wood
Star
4.6
(1168)
Forrest W. Bo Wood
Shelbyville
Lake Shelbyville

Dramatic bluffs drop straight into Lake Shelbyville's crystalline waters, where over 140 campsites nestle between towering oaks and the shoreline's natural boat ramp.

Tents
RVs
3
Thomson Causeway
Star
4.6
(879)
Thomson Causeway
Thomson
Mississippi River - Pools 11-22

Campers claim their own slice of Mississippi River island, where bass-filled backwaters lap at your tent stakes and great blue herons hunt the shallows just yards from your morning campfire.

Tents
RVs

About Beach Camping in Illinois

Beach camping in Illinois offers surprising coastal experiences along the state's expansive lakes and mighty rivers, transforming the Prairie State into a summer waterfront destination. While Illinois may lack ocean shores, campgrounds like Sullivan Marina and Campground on Lake Shelbyville and Thomson Causeway along the Mississippi River provide sandy beaches, swimming areas, and waterfront camping that rivals traditional coastal destinations.

Best Time

The prime beach camping season in Illinois runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, with peak swimming conditions from mid-June through August when water temperatures reach comfortable 70-80°F ranges. July and August offer the warmest water and most reliable sunny weather, though these months also bring the largest crowds and require advance reservations at popular campgrounds like Sullivan Marina and Forrest W.

Scenery Highlights

  • Oceanfront and lakeside sites
  • Sandy beaches and swimming
  • Stunning sunrise and sunset views
  • Water sports and fishing

Campground Locations

Showing top 20 campgrounds near Beach Camping in Illinois

Map of campgrounds near Beach Camping in Illinois
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Map Key
1
Sullivan Marina And Campground
2
Forrest W. Bo Wood
3
Thomson Causeway
4
Lithia Springs
5
Lone Point
6
Gun Creek
7
South Sandusky Campground
8
Dam East - Mcnair Campground
9
Coon Creek (Il)
10
North Sandusky Campground
11
Lone Point Group Camp
12
Fishermans Corner
13
South Marcum Campground
14
Crab Orchard Campground
15
Dale Miller Youth
16
Dam West Spillway
17
Bulger'S Hollow Recreation Area
18
Pine Hills Campground
19
Tower Rock Campground
20
Lotus Group Area
View all 20 campgrounds on interactive map

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Swimming at designated beachesSunbathing on sandy shoresKayaking and canoeingFishing from shore and boatsBoating and water skiingStand-up paddleboarding

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve summer weekend sites at least three months in advance for popular Lake Shelbyville campgrounds, as beaches fill quickly during peak season.
  • 2Bring water shoes for rocky entry points at some beaches and to protect feet from zebra mussel shells that have colonized many Illinois lakes.
  • 3Pack shade structures like pop-up canopies since many waterfront sites offer limited tree cover, and afternoon sun exposure can be intense during July and August.
  • 4Check current lake levels before arrival, as drought conditions can significantly impact beach quality and boat ramp access—the Army Corps of Engineers websites provide real-time lake level data.
20 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Beach Camping in Illinois

Beach Camping in Illinois FAQ

We've ranked 20+ beach campgrounds in Illinois based on water access, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include oceanfront and lakeside sites with sandy beaches and swimming access.
Beach camping in Illinois is generally best from May through September when water temperatures are warmest. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and milder weather.
For beach camping in Illinois, bring sun protection, beach chairs, water toys, and sand-friendly gear. Wind stakes for your tent are essential, and consider a shade structure for daytime comfort.
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