Lake Shelbyville, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

06/15/2026

⚠️ Boat Ramp and Access Area Closure Notice ⚠️

Due to high water conditions, the following boat ramps and access areas are currently closed:

• Coal Shaft Boat Ramp
• Johnson's Bluff Boat Ramp
• Bruce West Boat Ramp
• Sand Cove Road Access Area

The current lake level is 604.43 feet, and access to these locations is no longer available under current conditions.

Visitors should also be aware that a significant amount of floating debris has been observed throughout the lake. Please use extra caution while boating and remain alert for debris that may be difficult to see, especially at higher speeds.

Please check for updates before planning your visit to Lake Shelbyville.

Stay safe and enjoy the lake responsibly.

06/02/2026

🎣 IHSA State Bass Fishing Finals at Lake Shelbyville! 🎣
The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) State Bass Fishing Finals will be held at Lake Shelbyville on June 5–6, 2026, at the Dam West Boat Ramp.

⚠️ Important Notice
Beginning at 8:00 P.M. on Thursday, June 4, through 8:00 P.M. on Saturday, June 6, the Dam West Boat Ramp area will be restricted to participating teams, spectators, and event staff.

🏖️ Good news! Unlike last year, Dam West Beach will remain open to the public throughout the tournament.

🚤 Tournament Schedule:
• Takeoff: 7:00 A.M. (June 5 & 6)
• Weigh-In: 3:00 P.M. (June 5 & 6) at the Dam West Large Group Shelter

👥 Come support these outstanding young anglers!
Spectator parking is FREE in the Dam West Beach parking area:
• Beach users: park in the lot to the right when entering
• Tournament spectators: park in the lot to the left and walk to the takeoff and weigh-in areas

🎣 Teams will be conducting official practice on Thursday, June 4. Boaters are encouraged to use alternative boat ramps during this time.

📞 Questions? Contact the Lake Shelbyville Project Office at (217) 774-3951 or email [email protected].

05/14/2026

🚧 Road Closure Notice – Lake Shelbyville Dam 🚧
The road across the Lake Shelbyville Dam will be closed starting at 8 A.M. on May 18th till 5 P.M. on May 21st. for maintenance work. This closure includes both vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
❌ The Dam West Overlook area will also be closed.

We appreciate your patience as crews work to safely complete this project.

📞 Questions? Call the Lake Shelbyville Project Office at (217) 774-3951.

05/04/2026

Join us for a fun-filled day at Opossum Creek Pond on May 30th!
🐟 Prizes for participants
🎩 Special appearance by Abraham Lincoln
👧🧒 Open to kids ages 2–12
📍 Location: Opossum Creek Pond
📝 Pre-registration is required
Check out the flyer for more details and get your kids signed up for a great day of fishing and memories!

04/28/2026

The Backcountry Conservation Classic, a 3D archery shoot hosted by the Illinois chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, will take place at the Lake Shelbyville Archery Park located in the Opossum Creek Recreation Area.

Participants are invited to shoot the course for free or walk the trail to learn more about the natural ecosystem of central Illinois. The event also provides an opportunity to meet representatives from the Illinois chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, local conservation organizations, and industry partners.

The Lake Shelbyville Archery Park was developed in partnership with Backcountry Hunters & Anglers and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide a free, public archery opportunity on federal lands.

Free camping is available at the Opossum Creek Recreation Area on a first-come, first-served basis. Nearby campgrounds are also available by reservation.

Event schedule:
Friday, May 8, 6 to 10 p.m.: Kickoff event in Findlay, Illinois
Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Archery event at Opossum Creek Archery Park

For additional event details, including any associated activities or opportunities, and to RSVP visit: https://www.backcountryhunters.org/events/eventid/5030/e/2026-backcountry-conservation-classic-shelbyville-il-9-may-2026?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExRGVMQWxVNDNWU1Z5UTNrRnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4B3h39JwvMHUlrbxdun5B8ubJJRh2m8g2JzbjhkuS-8J9QYoa2VOixeHhBQg_aem_UUTS1gVJwjOtFxsuY37hbQ

Welcome to BHA’s new website! This digital campfire is still being built—thanks for bearing with us as we get it burning bright.

04/23/2026

Coal Shaft is now OPEN!

We appreciate everyone’s patience while we addressed some safety concerns with the road. Our team worked hard to improve access by shaving the road surface, clearing encroaching trees and vegetation, and widening it so two vehicles can safely pass.

Your favorite primitive ramp and bank fishing spot is ready for you again. Get out and enjoy it!

Water Safety Reminder: If you’re heading out on the water, please wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times. Conditions can change quickly, and wearing one could save your life.

Thank you for your support!

04/16/2026

Ken Kenney’s Access Update
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is updating access at Ken Kenney’s (Site #46).

The roadway to this location is privately owned. While access was previously used, it was never designated as a public access route.

USACE has secured an easement for operational use only. Public access is not permitted.

Signage will be installed soon and maps will be updated.

Please use designated public access areas when visiting Lake Shelbyville.

Send a message to learn more

03/30/2026

🚧 Starting tomorrow (3/31), Coal Shaft will be closed for maintenance work. The gate will be shut, so bank fishing, boat ramp, and general public access to the area will not be allowed.

⏳ At this time, we are unsure how long the closure will last due to the upcoming weather forecast, but we will keep you updated as soon as it reopens.

🎣 We understand this is a popular time of year to be out fishing, and we truly appreciate your patience and understanding.

Send a message to learn more