Recreational boats of all sizes and types can be found on the lake, including houseboats and full-keel sailboats. Lithia Springs Marina, developed along the lake shore in the lake’s namesake town, has been the premier marina on the Lake since its inception.
Water was impounded beginning in the summer of 1970. In addition to the main dam, construction highlights included recreation areas, land clearing, relocation of utilities, highways and cemeteries, and construction of the 3200 foot long Findlay Bridge.
Flood waters are now trapped and held in the lake to be later released through the Dam in a controlled manner. Sometimes water is released to aid downstream commercial river navigation as far away as the Mississippi River.
At the top of its normal summer pool (elev. 599.7′) the lake covers 11,000 acres surrounded by 172 miles of forested and sandy shoreline. In addition to many recreation opportunities such as campgrounds, beaches, trails, marinas, boat launches, picnic grounds, and areas for the sportsman, the lake provides other benefits.
Fish and wildlife areas have been created with the purpose of increasing wildlife habitats. From Illinois’ healthiest whitetail deer, to record-breaking muskies, to pelicans migrating South for the winter, the wildlife in and around the shore of Lake Shelbyville is sure to please.
