Forrest W. Bo Wood
4.65562 reviews1989 St. Highway 16
Forrest W. Bo Wood
$18.00 - $48.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$40.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $18 to $48 depending on site type and season. Discounts available for Interagency Senior Lifetime or Annual Pass holders.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine northern shore of Lake Shelbyville, the Forrest W. 'Bo' Wood Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its impressive collection of over 140 campsites. This beloved destination seamlessly blends modern conveniences with natural beauty, where families gather around evening campfires beneath towering oak and hickory canopies. From the well-maintained playgrounds where children's laughter echoes through the trees to the convenient boat ramp that launches countless sunrise fishing expeditions, every amenity has been thoughtfully placed to enhance your outdoor experience. Hot showers await after days spent exploring, ensuring comfort meets adventure at every turn.
Forrest W. 'Bo' Wood accommodates a range of camping styles, including RV camping with full hookups, tent camping, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceThe surrounding region tells a rich story of both natural heritage and cultural traditions. Just a short drive away, Wolf Creek State Park and the Okaw Bluff Wetlands Complex serve as living museums of Illinois' diverse ecosystems, where patient wildlife watchers might spot everything from majestic herons to elusive deer. Birding enthusiasts flock to these preserves, binoculars in hand, seeking glimpses of both resident species and seasonal migrants. The area's cultural tapestry is woven with threads of Amish heritage, where time seems to slow down at authentic establishments like Yoder's Amish Restaurant, offering hearty, home-cooked meals that have sustained generations of local families.
Weather and SeasonsCentral Illinois reveals its dramatic personality through distinctly different seasons, each offering unique camping experiences. Summer arrives with characteristic Midwest intensity—hot days perfect for lake swimming give way to balmy evenings ideal for stargazing. As autumn approaches, the campground transforms into a photographer's paradise, with moderate temperatures creating perfect conditions for hiking while nature paints the landscape in brilliant hues. Winter brings its own stark beauty, with crisp air and peaceful solitude, while spring awakens the landscape with gentle warmth and renewed life. The shoulder seasons often provide the most comfortable camping weather, with fewer crowds and spectacular natural displays.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of central Illinois creates subtle elevation changes throughout the recreation area, with the campground positioned to take advantage of scenic lake views and natural drainage patterns.
Natural Features and SceneryDramatic bluffs plunge toward the sparkling waters of Lake Shelbyville, creating a landscape where forest meets water in spectacular fashion. Ancient oaks and stately hickories form a living cathedral overhead, their branches creating dappled shade patterns that dance across campsites throughout the day. Come autumn, this verdant canopy explodes into a fireworks display of reds, oranges, yellows, and deep purples that reflect perfectly in the lake's mirror-like surface. Spring and summer bring their own magic, as native prairie flowers dot the landscape with splashes of color—purple coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and delicate wild roses creating a natural garden that attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.
Geological RegionPositioned in the heart of central Illinois, this northern shore sanctuary showcases the region's characteristic landscape where ancient glacial activity carved out the perfect basin for Lake Shelbyville. The campground occupies a transitional zone where the oak-hickory forests of the eastern woodlands meet the prairie ecosystems that once dominated Illinois. These steep lakeside bluffs tell a geological story millions of years in the making, their layers revealing the ancient seas and subsequent ice ages that shaped this land. Today, this diverse terrain supports a rich tapestry of plant life, from towering hardwoods to delicate wildflowers, creating multiple ecosystems within a single recreational area.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCampsites generally accommodate RVs and tents with features like paved and level surfaces, but some sites have uneven terrain requiring careful positioning. Accessibility reviews highlight the proximity of shower and bathroom facilities.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as large, accommodating even big rigs (up to 42 feet). Some sites offer pull-through options and full hookups.
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy. While some campsites are spacious and well-spread, others are criticized for being too close to neighbors. Sites in Area 5 are often praised for their spaciousness and privacy.
Total Campsites140 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose shaded sites for relief from summer heat; lakeside sites like #6 offer stellar water views. Avoid sites like #104 if standing water is an issue.
Best CampsitesSite 132 is marked as a favorite by multiple reviewers. Sites #6, #28, and #117 are highlighted for views and spaciousness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- One RV and three tents, or four tents per site
- Two RVs and six tents, or eight tents for double sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into multiple loops, with sections offering different amenities such as full hookups, tent-only sites, and premium lakeside spots.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 17 to October 25 during the peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov, app, or phone call.
Walk-in AvailabilityApproximately half of the sites are reservable, while the remaining operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Busy days may require early arrival to secure non-reservable sites.
Cancellation PolicyReservations may be canceled up to midnight one day before the scheduled arrival date. Changes involve a $10 fee, and late cancellations may forfeit the first night’s fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Forrest W. 'Bo' Wood provides a variety of recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and hiking. The campground is particularly popular for fishing and boating due to its proximity to Lake Shelbyville. Other activities include birding, picnicking, and playground use.
Fishing
Lake Shelbyville offers abundant fishing opportunities for species such as catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, muskie, walleye, white bass, and bluegill. Ponds with farmed fish are also available. 'Great place for fishing!' remarked one camper.Biking
Biking is a popular activity within the campground due to its mostly flat terrain. Paths near sites allow for safe biking for children and adults. 'Great places to ride bikes,' commented one user.Boating
The campground features a large boat ramp with ample parking. Users often use this amenity for kayaking and paddleboarding. 'Easy lake access to the boat ramp,' reported one review.Wildlife viewing
The campground is home to diverse species such as songbirds, shorebirds, raptors, and mammals like deer and rabbits. Bird watchers frequently note sightings of eagles and pelicans.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned in the reviews or provided data.Water Sports
Popular for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other non-motorized water sports due to the large boat ramp.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed only with locally sourced firewood to prevent invasive pests.
- Quiet hours enforced.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep descents to the lake may pose access challenges. Bugs, including sewer flies, are noted in multiple reviews. Poison ivy is present in some wooded areas.
Active alertsNone reported.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital and emergency services available in Sullivan, approximately 2 miles away. Sullivan also has police and fire stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 17 to October 25.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available through dumpsters located near bathing facilities. Recycling details are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the northern shore of Lake Shelbyville, with steep descents to the lakeshore. Fishing ponds and marinas are nearby.
Common complaintsCommon issues include bugs during dusk, cleanliness of shower houses, and crowded conditions on weekends. Lake access is steep in many areas.
HostHosts are frequently praised for friendliness and quick assistance, including delivering registration tags directly to campers.
Campground Map
1989 St. Highway 16
Driving directionsFrom Sullivan, Illinois, take State Route 32 south for two miles to the Forrest W. 'Bo' Wood sign, then turn right and drive a half-mile to the campground.
Accessible via paved roads; road conditions are suitable for all vehicle types. Located near State Route 32, ensuring easy access year-round.Nearby places
Sullivan: 2 miles (~5 minutes), Shelbyville: Approximately 20 miles (~25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies available in Sullivan, which is approximately 2 miles from the campground. Additional amenities such as restaurants and hardware stores can be found in Shelbyville, about 20 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.7
562 reviews
Forrest W. Bo Wood is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews praise the spacious campsites and friendly staff. Common themes include excellent fishing and boating opportunities, clean facilities, and the dog park. Complaints often center around cleanliness issues in the bathrooms, mold in showers, and bugs during evening hours.
Review Summaries
Based on 562 reviews
What Campers Love
Large campsites, proximity to Lake Shelbyville, boat ramp, dog park, spacious pull-through sites, helpful staff, clean grounds. 'Wonderful dog park. Sullivan very close for groceries,' noted one...
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Common Concerns
Critiques include mold in bathrooms, uneven campsite terrain, bugs in the evenings, and limited views in certain areas. 'Bathrooms and showers need updates,' commented one user.
Based on 562 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend early check-in to secure preferred sites, bringing bug spray, and reserving well in advance for busy weekends. 'Site 40 full hookup was great!' wrote a camper.
Based on 562 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are noted for milder weather and scenic foliage, while summer sees issues with bugs and humidity. Winter camping is not mentioned, as the campground closes for the season.
Based on 562 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Wonderful dog park. Sullivan very close for groceries and places to eat,' said one reviewer. 'Bathrooms need TLC,' wrote another. 'Individual bathrooms, complete with toilet, sink, shower, and lock...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 125 praised for its size but warned about falling walnuts in the fall. Site 135 appreciated for its spaciousness and proximity to bathrooms. Site 40 recommended for its view and pull-through...
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Accessibility Features
Facilities generally accommodate RV and tent setups, but uneven terrains are noted for some sites. 'Attendant was very friendly and helpful,' highlighted an accessibility review.
Based on 562 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, and the campground features a dog park praised for its cleanliness and agility courses. 'Best dog park I've seen in a campground!' commented one reviewer.
Based on 562 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025