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Campground East

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Campground East Overview

Rating

Phone (217) 254-6680

Address 2, 1200N, Neoga, IL 62447, USA

Website http://mattoon.illinois.gov/government/publicworks/parkdept/lakes

Hours

Campground East Location & Map

IllinoisShelby CountyNeoga1200N

Campground East About

Are you an Illinois resident dreaming of a serene lakeside escape where you can truly unwind and soak in nature's beauty? Campground East, nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Mattoon in Neoga, IL, offers just that – a tranquil haven perfect for those seeking peace, stunning views, and engaging water activities. This delightful campground is a local favorite, known for its friendly atmosphere and the breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky over the lake each evening.

Campground East provides a quintessential Illinois camping experience, blending the comforts of well-maintained sites with the unspoiled beauty of a natural lakeside setting. Whether you're an avid boater, a keen swimmer, a passionate angler, or simply someone who appreciates a quiet moment with a beautiful view, this campground has something to offer. It’s a place where families can create lasting memories, friends can gather for relaxing weekends, and individuals can find solace in the peaceful embrace of the outdoors.

We understand that Illinois locals are looking for accessible, enjoyable, and value-packed camping options, and Campground East consistently delivers. Its focus on providing a clean, friendly, and naturally beautiful environment makes it a standout choice for your next outdoor adventure. Let's explore what makes Campground East on Lake Mattoon a must-visit destination for campers across the state.

Location and Accessibility

Campground East is ideally situated at 2, 1200N, Neoga, IL 62447, USA. This location places it directly on the southeast side of Lake Mattoon, a prominent recreational lake spanning parts of Coles, Cumberland, and Shelby Counties in Illinois. The campground's position offers unparalleled access to the lake, which is a major draw for visitors.

Its accessibility is a key advantage. While providing a peaceful, natural setting, Campground East is not isolated. It's located just a short distance from major transportation routes, making it convenient for travelers coming from various parts of Illinois. Neoga is a small, charming village, and the campground's proximity to the town means essential services and local conveniences are within easy reach, though campers often appreciate the sense of being immersed in nature.

Lake Mattoon itself is a significant feature of the area. Covering 1,050 surface acres with a maximum depth of 35 feet, it offers ample space for a variety of water activities. The marina for Lake Mattoon is located at 1282 County Road 000 East, Neoga, Illinois, and provides facilities for boat registration and sticker purchases. This close proximity to the marina means boaters staying at Campground East have convenient access to launch their vessels and enjoy the expansive waters.

Furthermore, the surrounding region offers opportunities for exploration beyond the lake. While Campground East provides a serene retreat, nearby larger towns like Effingham and Mattoon offer more extensive dining, shopping, and entertainment options. For those interested in unique local attractions, the famous "Small Town Big Things" in Casey, IL, known for its world-record-breaking oversized items, is also within a reasonable driving distance, providing a fun day trip for campers looking to explore the distinctive character of Central Illinois.

Services Offered

Campground East on Lake Mattoon provides essential services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for its campers. While it focuses on the core camping experience, these offerings cater to the practical needs of visitors. Based on available public information, here are the key services you can expect:

  • Campsites with Hookups: The campground offers sites that are specifically designated as "seasonal campground only," meaning they are primarily set up for longer-term stays. Campers at these sites are responsible for paying their "electric and water" usage. While detailed information on tent sites or transient (overnight) RV sites is less prominent, the primary focus appears to be on accommodating RVs and trailers with essential hookups.
  • Restrooms and Showers: Campground East is known to offer basic amenities such as "Restrooms" and "Shower" facilities. The presence of these amenities is crucial for a comfortable camping experience, providing necessary conveniences for all campers.
  • RV Dump Station: An "RV Dump" station is available on-site, allowing campers to conveniently dispose of their wastewater before departing. This is a standard and much-appreciated service for RV enthusiasts.
  • Access to Lake Mattoon: As a lakeside campground, a primary "service" is the direct access to Lake Mattoon. This allows campers to easily engage in boating, swimming, and fishing activities. The public beach at Lake Mattoon is also located nearby, offering a designated area for swimming.
  • On-site Management/Contact: While details on constant on-site management are not always explicit, the phone number provided indicates direct contact with the Lake Supervisor or Park Office, suggesting responsive management for inquiries and assistance during your stay. This ensures that campers have a point of contact should they need help or information.

Features / Highlights

Campground East on Lake Mattoon boasts several features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for campers in Illinois:

  • Stunning Lakeside Location: The most prominent highlight is its direct location on Lake Mattoon. This provides immediate access to the water and offers "beautiful sunsets over the lake," as noted by delighted visitors. The scenic views contribute significantly to a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, truly allowing campers to "see God's wonders."
  • Excellent Water Activities: Lake Mattoon is renowned for its recreational opportunities. Campers at Campground East can enjoy "boating and/or swimming" in the lake. The lake permits unrestricted boating and water skiing, making it ideal for those who enjoy power boating, jet skiing, or simply cruising. A public swimming beach is also available across from the marina for designated swimming.
  • Fishing Paradise: Lake Mattoon is a popular fishing destination. Anglers can try their luck catching various species, including excellent crappie, good hybrid striped bass (wipers), channel catfish, carp, and saugeye. This makes it a prime spot for both casual and serious fishermen, adding another layer of recreational enjoyment.
  • Peaceful and Relaxing Atmosphere: Repeatedly described as "Peaceful" and a "great place to relax," the campground offers a quiet escape from the daily grind. This serene environment is highly valued by visitors seeking tranquility and a chance to de-stress in nature.
  • Friendly People and Nice Area: Reviews highlight the "Friendly people" and "nice area," suggesting a welcoming community and a well-regarded locale. This contributes to an overall positive and comfortable experience for campers.
  • Seasonal Camping Focus: The designation as a "seasonal campground only" for some sections indicates a focus on longer-term stays, which can foster a stronger sense of community among repeat visitors and allows for a more settled camping experience.
  • Boating Access and Facilities: With Lake Mattoon being boat-friendly (with appropriate registration), the campground's proximity to boat ramps and the marina is a significant feature for boat owners. This provides convenient access for launching and enjoying the expansive lake.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a professional content writer providing factual and SEO-optimized descriptions for local businesses, it is essential to base information on publicly available data. Specific, active promotions or special offers for Campground East are not consistently advertised in readily accessible public sources and can change over time. Being a facility primarily offering seasonal sites on a municipal lake, direct promotions might be less frequent or vary significantly.

Therefore, to obtain the most current and accurate information regarding any potential promotions, special rates, or availability for shorter-term stays, prospective campers are highly recommended to contact Campground East directly. When you call, you might inquire about:

  • Current seasonal rates for long-term campers.
  • Availability and pricing for overnight or short-term RV or tent sites, if applicable.
  • Any discounts for off-peak season stays.
  • Details on booking procedures and payment methods.

Direct communication with the campground management via the provided phone number is the best way to get up-to-date information and explore any options that might suit your camping plans. This ensures you receive accurate details directly from the source.

Contact Information

For more information about Campground East, to inquire about site availability, current rates, or to plan your visit to Lake Mattoon, please use the following contact details:

Address: 2, 1200N, Neoga, IL 62447, USA

Phone: (217) 254-6680

Mobile Phone: +1 217-254-6680

Calling the provided phone number will connect you with the Lake Supervisor or Park Office, who can assist you with all your inquiries and help you secure your spot at this peaceful lakeside camping destination in Neoga, Illinois. It's always advisable to call ahead, especially during popular seasons, to confirm availability.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Illinois residents, Campground East on Lake Mattoon presents an exceptionally suitable and appealing option for a wide array of outdoor interests. Its distinct advantages cater directly to what many locals seek in a camping destination: natural beauty, opportunities for recreation, and a serene environment without extensive travel.

The most compelling reason for locals to choose Campground East is its prime lakeside location. The ability to witness "beautiful sunsets over the lake" and engage in "boating and/or swimming" directly from the campground offers an unparalleled recreational experience right in their backyard. Lake Mattoon's reputation as an excellent spot for fishing, with various species available, makes it a haven for anglers, providing a fulfilling pastime for families and individuals alike.

Furthermore, the campground’s "Peaceful" and "nice and quiet" atmosphere is a significant draw for those looking to escape the daily grind. In a state with bustling urban centers, finding a tranquil retreat like Campground East offers a much-needed respite, allowing residents to relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature without venturing far from home. The "Friendly people, nice area" also contributes to a welcoming community vibe, making every visit pleasant and comfortable.

While some sections may focus on seasonal stays, the overall presence of essential amenities like restrooms, showers, and an RV dump station ensures that comfort is not sacrificed. The accessibility "Not to far from the hwy" means less time driving and more time enjoying the lake, perfectly suiting weekend getaways or even longer seasonal stays for Illinois residents. Whether you're pulling a boat, casting a line, or simply soaking in the views, Campground East offers a genuine and enriching outdoor experience for the local Illinois community.

Customer Reviews

4.0
12 reviews
D
Donna Hoel
Jun 24, 2020

Peaceful. Can see beautiful sunsets over the lake. A great place to relax and see God's wonders.

K
K Hulse
Sep 22, 2019

Friendly people, nice area. Lake great for boating and/or swimming

G
Gwynne Anderson-Beck
Feb 25, 2020

Get off the _____ - you fill in the blank! Get off/put down the electronic devices; Get outdoors!

S
Susan Danielson
Jun 02, 2023

Love our Lake Place.

C
Chris Filicsky
Jun 29, 2022

Laid back community. Great place to spend the summer