Coon Creek Recreation Area

For Illinois residents yearning for a tranquil and amenity-rich outdoor escape, Coon Creek Recreation Area in Shelbyville, IL, stands as a prime destination. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), this campground offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a surprisingly peaceful atmosphere, even during peak seasons. Situated on the western shore of the expansive Lake Shelbyville, Coon Creek is a beloved spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature, whether by RV, tent, or simply a day visit to its inviting beach.

The true appeal of Coon Creek lies in its ability to handle visitor volume gracefully without feeling overwhelming. As one delighted camper experienced over a busy Memorial Day weekend, "One of the busiest weekends of the year in the RV world and it never felt overcrowded." This speaks volumes about the thoughtful layout and the sense of space that the campground provides. Beyond the spaciousness, the cleanliness of the facilities is consistently praised. "The bathrooms were clean. The beach was clean life preservers were there if you wanted to borrow one my bride and I enjoyed it," notes another review, highlighting the attention to detail that enhances the overall visitor experience.

For families, the "Nice playground" is a welcome addition, ensuring children have a dedicated area for fun. And for those seeking genuine tranquility, the feedback that "the view was great at site 96 it’s quite and peaceful" perfectly encapsulates the essence of Coon Creek. While some visitors might note the allowance of RC cars, the predominant sentiment remains one of peace and quiet, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing a serene environment. For Illinois locals, finding such a well-maintained, diverse, and calm campground so conveniently located makes Coon Creek Recreation Area an ideal spot for regular escapes to the heart of the state's outdoor recreational offerings.

Coon Creek Recreation Area is located at 2075 East Rd, Shelbyville, IL 62565, USA. This position places it prominently on the western side of Lake Shelbyville, a significant man-made reservoir in Central Illinois. The area is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, ensuring a standard of public access and maintenance.

Accessing Coon Creek from various parts of Illinois is generally straightforward, though specific directions are always helpful. From Shelbyville, a common route involves traveling 4.5 miles north on State Route 128, then turning east onto County Road 1750 N for about a mile. From there, a slight north turn onto County Road 1900 E for a quarter-mile, followed by an eastbound turn onto County Road 1785 N for 1.75 miles. Finally, a turn south onto County Road 2075 E for 1.7 miles will lead you directly to the campground. This route, while detailed, ensures a smooth approach on well-maintained county roads.

For Illinois residents, Coon Creek's location means it's a manageable drive from several major cities. It's approximately 45 minutes from Decatur, around an hour and a half from Springfield, and about an hour and 45 minutes from Champaign-Urbana. While it offers a secluded feel, it remains well within reach for weekend trips or longer vacations, providing a convenient natural getaway. The close proximity to Lake Shelbyville is a significant advantage, offering immediate access to a vast body of water for all kinds of aquatic activities, enhancing its appeal for local outdoor enthusiasts.

• 181 campsites available, with about 50 percent reservable through Recreation.gov.
• All sites equipped with electric hookups (30-amp and 50-amp available). Some sites may also have water and sewer (full hookups).
• Designated tent camping sites.
• Modern flush toilets and showers available for campers.
• Public swimming beach with life preservers available for borrowing.
• Boat ramp and courtesy dock for convenient lake access.
• Fish cleaning station.
• Dump station for RV waste.
• Playground for children.
• Picnic tables and fire rings/grills at each campsite.
• Group camping options available.
• Good cell service in the area.
• Mixed-use trails for hiking and biking within the recreation area.
• Amphitheater for educational programs or events.
• Visitor Center nearby for information.

• Spacious and generally level campsites, including paved and gravel options, accommodating various RV and tent sizes.
• Beautiful natural setting, heavily forested with oak and hickory trees providing ample shade.
• Stunning views of Lake Shelbyville from many campsites, particularly tent sites.
• Clean and well-maintained facilities, including restrooms and the swimming beach, as highlighted by multiple positive reviews.
• Peaceful and quiet atmosphere, even during busy periods, offering a relaxing escape.
• Direct access to Lake Shelbyville for boating, fishing (catfish, crappie, bass, walleye, bluegill), and swimming.
• Dedicated swimming beach, a major draw for families.
• On-site nature trail (0.7-mile Coon Creek Nature Trail) for easy walks and wildlife viewing.
• Proximity to other Lake Shelbyville attractions and trails, including the General Dacey Trail.
• Pet-friendly policy (dogs allowed on a leash).
• Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, ensuring established standards and oversight.
• Offers both reservable and first-come, first-served sites, providing flexibility for planning.

Coon Creek Recreation Area, being a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) campground, operates with a standardized fee structure rather than traditional commercial "promotions." However, it provides considerable value and accessibility that benefits Illinois residents:

• Affordable Campsite Fees: Daily rates are consistent and budget-friendly. For instance, tent-only sites may be around $18/night, standard electric sites around $18/night, and full hookup sites around $24/night. Double capacity sites are typically double the single capacity rate.
• America the Beautiful Passes: Holders of interagency passes, such as the America the Beautiful Senior Pass or Access Pass, often qualify for a 50% discount on standard amenity fees, including camping, providing significant savings for eligible individuals.
• Boat Launch Fee: A daily boat launch fee of $5.00 applies for using the boat ramp.
• Reservation System: Campsites can be reserved up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov or by phone, ensuring a guaranteed spot, especially for popular weekends and holidays. A 2-night minimum stay is required on weekends, and a 3-night minimum on holidays.
• Year-Round Season (for some aspects): While primary camping season runs from approximately early April through Columbus Day, some activities or areas might be accessible year-round, offering off-season opportunities for wildlife viewing, hunting, or quiet reflection.

For the most precise and current fee schedule, reservation availability, and specific details on rules and regulations, it is always best to consult the Recreation.gov website or contact the Lake Shelbyville Project Office directly.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Coon Creek Recreation Area and Lake Shelbyville, please use the following contact details:

Address: 2075 East Rd, Shelbyville, IL 62565, USA

Phone: (217) 774-3951

Mobile Phone: +1 217-774-3951

These numbers connect directly to the Lake Shelbyville Project Office, which oversees Coon Creek and other recreation areas around the lake. For campsite reservations, the Recreation.gov website or their toll-free reservation line (1-877-444-6777) are the primary methods. Calling ahead for current conditions, availability, and specific directions, especially for larger vehicles, is always recommended to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Coon Creek Recreation Area is an outstanding choice for Illinois residents seeking a balanced blend of outdoor adventure and peaceful relaxation, all within a convenient distance. Its prime location on Lake Shelbyville provides immediate access to a vast array of water-based activities, making it perfect for fishing, boating, swimming at the clean beach, or simply enjoying the scenic views from your campsite. For those living in Central Illinois, the relatively short drive makes it an ideal spot for frequent weekend getaways, maximizing leisure time and minimizing travel stress.

The reviews from fellow campers truly highlight its suitability, emphasizing that even during busy holiday weekends, it "never felt overcrowded" and that it remains "quite and peaceful." This ability to offer a serene environment while accommodating a large number of visitors is a significant advantage. The consistently clean bathrooms and beach, along with the readily available life preservers, underscore the commitment to visitor safety and comfort. For families, the presence of a playground adds to the appeal, ensuring entertainment for younger campers.

As a well-managed USACE campground, Coon Creek offers reliable facilities, including electric hookups at all sites, catering to both RV and tent campers. This combination of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and a calm atmosphere makes Coon Creek Recreation Area a true local gem. It provides Illinois residents with an accessible, high-quality outdoor experience where they can unwind, reconnect with nature, and create cherished memories in the heart of their own state.