Closed
This is a day-use only facility with no overnight camping. Shelter hours are 8am to 10pm daily. Available first-come, first-served when not reserved. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.
About
Dam East Picnic Shelter sits on the southern shore of Lake Shelbyville in central Illinois, providing a reservable covered shelter for group gatherings and day-use recreation. The shelter features three picnic tables under the roof with four additional concrete tables nearby, a group grill, fireplace, overhead lighting, and two electrical outlets. Flush restrooms serve the area.
The surrounding Dam East Recreation Area offers diverse activities including a playground, volleyball court, horseshoe pit, and fishing access along the shoreline. The General Dacey Trail, a multi-use biking and walking path, extends through the area connecting to the spillway, dam, and Shelbyville city park. The Lake Shelbyville Visitor Center is located in the same parking area, featuring an exhibit hall, butterfly garden, and panoramic lake views.
The area is shaded by oaks and hickory trees with views overlooking the lake. Wildlife including songbirds, waterfowl, raptors, white-tailed deer, and seasonally bald eagles can be observed. The town of Shelbyville is about one mile away.
Directions
From Shelbyville, Illinois, go one mile east on State Route 16 to Dam East Recreation Area. Turn left into Dam East Recreation Area, then take the second right into the Lake Shelbyville Visitor Center parking lot.
