The closest place to stay is Springfield about 35-45 minutes away for a nice place, There might be a place at Carlinville, but wont be as nice. There are some no wake restrictions north of the bridge I believe. I have fished it a few times and not really impressed with it as a crappie lake myself, depending where you are coming from Shelbyville would be a better choice there is a 30 dollar launch fee for 2 days also