Lone Point
4.42111 reviews1989 State Hwy 16, Shelbyville, IL, 62565, USA
Lone Point
$16.00 - $240.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$32.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$240.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season daily fees range from $16 for tent-only non-electric sites to $240 for group standard electric sites. Reservation fees may apply, with discounts available for Interagency Pass holders.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine western shores of Lake Shelbyville, Lone Point Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking a perfect blend of solitude and adventure in central Illinois. Whether you're a solo traveler craving peaceful reflection, a family planning weekend memories, or organizing a large group gathering, this hidden gem delivers an authentic camping experience. Cast a line into the shimmering waters, dive into refreshing swimming spots, explore winding forest trails, or launch your boat for a day of aquatic exploration—all from your basecamp in this natural sanctuary.
Lone Point accommodates a range of camping styles, including individual, group, tent, and RV camping. Group camping sites are available for up to 80 people, equipped with electric hookups.
Weather and SeasonsLone Point transforms with the seasons, each bringing its own camping charm. Summer graces the campground with moderate temperatures perfect for lakeside lounging and evening campfires under star-filled skies. Spring and fall occasionally bring gentle rains that enhance the forest's earthy aromas, while winter's light snowfall creates a serene, frost-kissed landscape for the hardy cold-weather camper. The predominantly dry, sunny conditions throughout most of the year make this an ideal destination for outdoor adventures in any season.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral of towering oak and hickory trees that create a natural canopy overhead, filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. This heavily wooded wonderland transforms dramatically with the seasons—spring awakens the landscape with delicate prairie wildflowers painting splashes of color throughout the understory, while autumn sets the forest ablaze with brilliant golds, crimsons, and burnt oranges. Keep your camera ready for frequent wildlife encounters: graceful deer browsing at dawn, playful mink darting along the shoreline, muskrats building their waterside homes, and a symphony of songbirds filling the air with nature's soundtrack.
Geological RegionLone Point Campground sits within the heart of central Illinois' remarkable forest ecosystem, where ancient oak and hickory stands have thrived for generations along Lake Shelbyville's scenic shores. This unique convergence of forest and water creates diverse habitats where woodland meets wetland, supporting both the majestic hardwood forests typical of the region and pockets of native prairie that burst with wildflowers each spring and summer. The area showcases the natural beauty of Illinois' central landscape, where rolling terrain meets expansive waterways.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility for campers with disabilities is not explicitly detailed in official sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and spacious, with some offering excellent lake views and shade.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at sites varies significantly. While some reviewers found sites private ('Site 53 is private and has a very nice water view'), others remarked on the lack of privacy ('Otherwise there is not a lot of privacy between sites').
Total Campsites80 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 53 requires preparation for uneven terrain, as noted in user reviews: 'Had to use all of our blocks on the door side and find something extra to put under our steps.' Site 46 offers privacy and waterfront access, ideal for relaxing.
Best CampsitesSites 53 and 46 are repeatedly praised for their privacy and water views. Site 8 has full hookups and is recently paved, offering convenience.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One RV and three tents or four tents per campsite.
Groups
The group camp area can accommodate up to 80 people, including 10 RVs and 40 tents. The area features a picnic shelter and water hydrant.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes areas for groups and individuals. Group sites accommodate up to 80 people with paved electric sites. Individual sites vary in features, and waterfront views are available.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 15, 2025, and closes September 1, 2025, with reservations available for peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, including online, app, and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned, but reservations are required prior to setting up on-site.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies to changes made in advance. Late cancellations result in forfeiting the first night's fees. No refunds for same-day cancellations. Reservation modification costs apply if outside of original dates.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Lone Point offers a variety of recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can enjoy the 11-mile Chief Illini backpacking trail nearby, fishing opportunities at Lake Shelbyville, and direct lake access for boating and swimming.
Hiking
Several hiking trails are available, including the 11-mile Chief Illini backpacking trail, which runs along the edge of Lake Shelbyville. A user review advises hikers to call the park for trail status as it is 'occasionally closed for repairs.'Fishing
Lake Shelbyville offers fishing opportunities for various species including catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, muskie, walleye, white bass, and bluegill. Ponds with farmed fish are also accessible around the lake.Swimming
Swimming is allowed in Lake Shelbyville, though the campground lacks a direct beach. A nearby beach in town offers free access for campers.Boating
Boating is facilitated by a multi-lane boat ramp and courtesy dock at the adjacent Lone Point Day Use Area. One reviewer noted, 'We are boaters and enjoyed watching the boats on the lake.'Wildlife viewing
Numerous species of songbirds, shorebirds, waterfowl, and raptors inhabit the lake area, along with mammals such as cottontail rabbits, white-tail deer, gray and fox squirrels, muskrats, and mink.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed for this campground.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking are mentioned in user reviews ('we went kayaking, the lake was right behind our campsite, so it was perfect').Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No outside firewood allowed. Firewood can be purchased locally for $5 per bundle.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep banks may make it difficult for some campers to access water. Guests have reported issues with ticks on-site.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.7 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
Nearest hospital or emergency services are in Shelbyville, IL, approximately 5.4 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 to September 1 (yearly peak season).
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available, and some reviewers noted efforts by staff to clean old ashes from grills. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the western shore of Lake Shelbyville with direct access to water for swimming, kayaking, and boating. Multi-lane boat ramp available for access.
Common complaintsGuests frequently mention unlevel sites requiring extra blocks and steps for leveling RVs. Limited 50-amp hookups and occasional equipment issues like malfunctioning power or water hookups.
HostCampground hosts are described as friendly and helpful. Some users mention hosts going out of their way to assist during challenging weather or reservation issues.
Campground Map
1989 State Hwy 16, Shelbyville, IL, 62565, USA
Driving directionsFrom Shelbyville, Illinois, go 4.5 miles north on State Route 128 to County Road 1750 N. Turn right and drive 0.9 miles to County Road 1900 E, then make a left and go 0.35 mile. Turn right onto County Road 1785 N and continue 2.5 miles to County Road 2150 E. Turn right and go 0.7 mile to County Road 1725 N, then take a left and travel 0.25 mile to County Road 2175 E. Turn right and continue 0.7 mile to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads for most of the journey but involves navigating several county roads, which may require careful attention to signage. Seasonal closures or construction status are not specified.Nearby places
Shelbyville, IL (approximately 5.4 miles)
Nearby supplies
A convenience store is approximately 6 minutes away from the campground, offering essentials like food and firewood.
Camper Reviews
4.4
111 reviews
Lone Point is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Lone Point is frequently praised for its cleanliness, spacious sites, lake views, and amenities such as showers and toilets. Reviews are mostly positive, with occasional complaints about unlevel sites, outdated hookups, and maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 111 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, spacious sites, great lake views, friendly staff, and easy access to outdoor activities like boating and fishing. One reviewer stated, 'Very clean campground! Spots are level and...
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Common Concerns
Unlevel campsites, overgrown grass, maintenance issues, power outages, ticks, and inconsistent camp host behavior. One user remarked, 'The firepit was full of debris and garbage from previous...
Based on 111 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring leveling blocks and additional equipment for uneven sites. Purchase firewood locally as outside firewood is prohibited. Early reservations are recommended for lake-view sites.
Based on 111 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season for camping, with access to lake activities and warm weather. Fall offers colorful foliage and wildlife viewing. Winter and early spring camping are less common,...
Based on 111 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'What a hidden gem! Absolutely gorgeous!' - Janalee Wyrick. 'Camping at Lone Point since 1975. It's been great.' - Marge Lynn. 'Bathrooms were extremely clean. Other than the ticks, we had a great...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 53 is frequently praised for its view but noted as unlevel. 'Site 53 isn’t very level so be prepared with several blocks,' said one reviewer. Site 46 is described as waterfront and spacious,...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility features like paved sites and nearby bathrooms are mentioned, but detailed reviews from users with disabilities are not available.
Based on 111 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews mention pet-friendly amenities or policies.
Based on 111 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025