Map showing campground location near Sullivan, Illinois

Camper submitted image from Whitley Creek - Lake Shelbyville

Whitley Creek - Lake Shelbyville

The US Army Corps of Engineers manages this Lake Shelbyville campground, though current operations remain unclear based on conflicting visitor reports. One reviewer indicates the facility closed in 1994, while more recent campers describe active tent camping experiences. The site provides direct lake access and maintains a functional boat ramp that sees light use.

Campers should prepare for wildlife encounters, particularly raccoons that show little fear of humans and may damage equipment in search of food. The lakefront setting offers water-based recreation opportunities for those able to access the area. For confirmed camping options in the region, consider nearby alternatives like Sullivan Marina and Campgrounds Resort or explore additional camping near Sullivan.

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Location

Public Campground

Whitley Creek - Lake Shelbyville is located in Illinois

Coordinates

39.53500013 N
88.6260004 W

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Connectivity

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 6 users
Last on 4/3/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Connectivity

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 6 users
Last on 4/3/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group
Equestrian

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Phone Service
Showers
Drinking Water
Electric Hookups
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Sewer Hookups
Water Hookups

Contact

General Info

+12177743951

Drive Time

36 min from Decatur, IL
57 min from Champaign, IL
1 hr 11 min from Springfield, IL
1 hr 31 min from Terre Haute, IN

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3.0

out of 5

3 Reviews

This campground closed in 1994 according to recent visitor information, though some reviews suggest tent camping may still occur. Wildlife encounters with raccoons are notable for those who do camp in the area. The boat ramp remains accessible for lake activities.

Broccoli N.

Scout

Reviewed May. 5, 2021

Amazing. Beauty in nature. Just serene beyond any kind of serenity that the big city brings. Nothing is able to induce such strait ultimate. ]l

You will never know the person that you are until you have enjoyed this camp and quoncored.

Month of VisitApril

Jana C.

Guide

Reviewed Mar. 26, 2021

Huge lake, nice camping

Camped here in a tent. Loved it. Raccoons are really brave and ate not afraid of humans. They know how to rip open a tent for food. Nothing is safe here. But a beautiful lake and campground.

Michael M.

Ranger

Reviewed Oct. 11, 2017

Ghost Campground - Boat Ramp Only

Just to let everyone know this used to be a Great campground and boat ramp, but the campground closed 24 years ago. The boat ramp is still available, but the Corps of Engineers closed the Whitley Creek pay and free tent campgrounds in 1994. In 1980 - 1984 I used to camp 14 days a month in the free tent camping area which gave you access to the shower house in the pay electric sites area. This was a nice campground and my home 6 months out of the year when I was young and carefree. Now there is nothing left but camping memories and it is strange to walk through it. Check out the video clip to see what 24 years of forest growth looks like. I want to set the record straight here, so someone doesn't go looking on the website and expect to find an open campsite in this area while travelling. You'll need to go to Wolf Creek, Bo Woods or the Sullivan Marina campgrounds if you want to camp in this general area of Lake Shelbyville. The boat ramp is a good place to launch here because not very many people use this ramp. Photos taken October 11th 2017.

Month of VisitOctober

(9) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Whitley Creek Recreation Area?

Whitley Creek Recreation Area offers a boat ramp for lake access, making it a convenient spot for boaters. The area has tent camping sites in both paid and free sections. While the campground's amenities are limited, the natural setting and lake access are its primary features. Wildlife is abundant in the area, with raccoons being particularly active around the campground. The recreation area provides basic camping experiences with its main draw being access to Lake Shelbyville's waters.

How do I reserve a campsite at Whitley Creek Recreation Area on Lake Shelbyville?

Important notice: The campground section of Whitley Creek Recreation Area has been closed since 1994, though the boat ramp remains available for public use. As camping is no longer permitted at this location, reservations are not available. For camping options around Lake Shelbyville, contact the Army Corps of Engineers who manage the lake's recreation areas for current information on active campgrounds and their reservation procedures.

What are the fees for camping at Whitley Creek Recreation Area?

Camping is no longer available at Whitley Creek Recreation Area as the campground portion closed in 1994. There were previously both paid and free tent camping areas, but these services have been discontinued. The boat ramp remains operational for public use. For current fee information regarding boat ramp usage or to find active campgrounds around Lake Shelbyville with their associated fees, contact the Army Corps of Engineers who manage the lake's recreational facilities.

What recreational activities can I enjoy at Whitley Creek Recreation Area?

Whitley Creek Recreation Area provides access to Lake Shelbyville for boating via the public boat ramp. While camping is no longer available, visitors can enjoy fishing, wildlife observation, and water-based recreation through the lake access point. The beautiful lake offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot various animals, including the area's notably active raccoon population. The scenic natural surroundings make it suitable for photography, picnicking, and enjoying the outdoors.

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