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.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Sullivan Marina And Campground
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.
Forrest W. Bo Wood
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.
Thomson Causeway
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.
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
Explore Beach Camping in Illinois
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
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.
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.
Popular Illinois Campgrounds Book Fast
The best beach camping in Illinois book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Sullivan Marina And Campground
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