Lake Shelbyville


Just minutes from Sullivan, Lake Shelbyville offers over 11,000 acres of recreation including boating, fishing, beaches, hiking trails, kayaking, birdwatching, hunting, and campgrounds. Lake Shelbyville boasts 23,000 acres of surrounding land for recreation and relaxation.

On The Water

Boating and Marinas

On a hot summer day, Lake Shelbyville is dotted with boats full of people enjoying the cool lake air. Houseboats, pontoon boats, motorboats, and even sailboats provide a variety of recreational opportunities.

map of Lake Shelbville shows the location of its marinas and boat ramps. The North end of Lake Shelbyville has two marinas located in Moultrie County:

Both marinas offer slips, rentals, gasoline, and other boating and fishing services.

In addition to the marinas, boat ramps can be found at all Army Corps and State Parks and Access/Recreation Areas. Listing of boat ramps HERE.

Fishing

Lake Shelbyville is one of the top Midwestern destinations for fisherman. With 11,000 acres and 200 miles of shoreline, Lake Shelbyville offers a multitude of fishing opportunities. Popular game species include catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, muskie, walleye, white bass, and bluegill. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in conjunction with the local Illinois Department of Natural Resources District Fisheries biologist stock walleye or sauger on a yearly basis and manage 16 farm ponds to maintain sizeable populations. The ponds range in size from less than an acre to 27 acres and most are easily accessible by foot.

For current fishing opportunities, see current local fishing report and fishing tournaments and Army Corps. For information on fishing licenses, see the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

For members of the public without a boat, you can fish at one of sixteen managed farm ponds around Lake Shelbyville or at Wyman Park in Sullivan.

Kayaking and paddling-Scenic coves and shoreline views

  • Water trail for kayaking or canoeing
  • The Lake Shelbyville Water Trail is a ~12-mile paddling route established in 2020 that runs along the Kaskaskia River branch from Denham Pit to Bo Wood Boat Ramp. It is designed for various skill levels, offering a 4-hour journey at normal water levels with multiple, scenic put-in/take-out points, including quiet coves near Opossum and Coon Creek.

On Land

Beaches & Swimming

  • Public swimming beaches
  • Family-friendly recreation areas
  • Picnic spots near the shoreline
Camping & Overnight Stays

  • 1,000+ campsites from primitive to full hook-up
  • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds
  • Private campgrounds and marinas
  • Cabins and nearby lodging
Explore a variety of other Outdoor Activites in Sullivan

Learn More