Dam West Overlook Picnic Shelter

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·Lake Shelbyville

Overview

This day use area sits on the southwest shore of Lake Shelbyville in the heart of central Illinois. This facility offers amenities such as walking & fitness trails, shoreline fishing, and a scenic overlook of the lake and dam.

Great Facilities and Amenities

  • Checkin Time

    (All campsites have Checkin Time)

  • Checkout Time

    (All campsites have Checkout Time)

  • Pets Allowed

    (All campsites have Pets Allowed)

  • Picnic Table

    (All campsites have Picnic Table)

  • Water Hookup

    (All campsites have Water Hookup)

Natural Features

View from Picnic Shelter 2 - Credits: USACE
View from Picnic Shelter 2 - Credits: USACE
Picnic Shelter 2 - Credits: USACE
Picnic Shelter 5 - Credits: USACE

The day use area has a perfect, wide-open overlook of the lake and dam. Numerous species of songbirds, shorebirds, waterfowl and raptors inhabit the lake area, as do mammals such as cottontail rabbit, white-tail deer, gray and fox squirrel, muskrat and mink.

Recreation

View from Picnic Shelter - Credits: USACE

The area features the General Dacey Trail, a multi-use biking and walking trail which extends through the south end of the lake, spillway, the dam, and into the city park. In this area, the trail also has fitness areas with outdoor fitness equipment. The shoreline is accessible in some areas for fishing opportunities. Some of the local fish in the lake are catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, muskie, walleye, white bass, and bluegill. 

Nearby Attractions

The Lake Shelbyville Dam is located right next to the day use area. Down the road to the west, the town of Shelbyville offers small town boutiques as well as eateries to explore. Dam West Recreation Area is a population location for swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities, and it is located just up the road north from the Dam West Overlook.

Additional Information

Campsites