Equestrian campgrounds near Arlington Heights, Illinois include Chain O' Lakes State Park with 40 miles of multi-use trails suitable for riders. This area sits on glacial terrain with elevations between 700-900 feet above sea level. The average rainfall of 36 inches per year creates lush landscapes but can lead to muddy conditions during spring at some horse-friendly campsites, especially in low-lying areas.
What to do
Horseback riding: Chain O' Lakes State Park, approximately 40 miles north of Arlington Heights, offers horseback riding opportunities. "I've seen lots of butterflies, gold finches, hawks, deer, flocks of giant sandhill cranes, rabbits, ground squirrels, and of course actual squirrels," notes one Fox Den Campground visitor.
Kayaking and canoeing: The waterways around Arlington Heights provide excellent paddling options. "I love to kayak through here because I don't need to paddle through the river unless I'm feeling competitive. I enjoy this route for the wildlife and nature scenery. I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far," shares a visitor at Turner Lake South.
Hiking: The region offers varied hiking trails with diverse terrain. "As a Troop we would rent one of the cabins for late season campouts. Clean facilities but the nice part is the scenic hiking for being close to town. Gentle hills and beautiful color. Always see turkey and other small game so great for Scout skills and badges," reports a camper at Paul Wolff Campground.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds offer well-maintained sites with adequate space. "The sites are clean and very well maintained. We loved the staff patrolling the grounds. The trail system is great for walking the dogs," notes a visitor at Paul Wolff Campground.
Lake access: Water recreation is a highlight for many campers. "The lake was very nice. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy. The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by," shares a Turner Lake South camper.
Family activities: Campgrounds with multiple recreation options rank high with visitors. "Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake. Quit place night time I can hear fish jumping from the water. Clean bathrooms and shower," reports a camper at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from May through October. "Chain O'Lakes is one of the busiest waterways in Illinois, with motorboats everywhere in the height of the summer season. We canoe, and both times we stayed there it was October, so I can't tell you how crowded, but the vast number of picnic areas must be there for a reason," notes a camper.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly. "This IL state campground fills up quickly on the weekends over the summer. The best sites for those hoping for privacy are in Turner Lake South and Mud Lake East. While these sites are usually slated for walk-ups on the weekends, it seems like a lot of people go early on Thursday or even Wednesday to secure their sites for the weekends."
Shower availability: Not all campgrounds offer shower facilities. "We would gladly stay here again! Great campsite with the best staff ever! The sites are clean and very well maintained. There is one very clean flush toilet building but no showers. They don't advertise showers, but this is the newest and nicest campsite I have seen without showers," reports a Big Rock Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly options: Some campgrounds offer affordable rates. "These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear. Family friendly. There's some small trails around as well that are beginner. There was electricity, however those sites are $25/night," shares a Turner Lake South camper.
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated activities. "This is a very popular campground. We stayed at site 37 and enjoyed our stay. The highlight of our experience is the hiking. There are miles of trails. On one hike we were on paved, sifted gravel, grass and single trek trails. There are a lot of loops giving you options," notes a Paul Wolff camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer chances to observe local fauna. "Campground is rather basic but the primitive camp sites were beautiful. Half of them were in the Prairie and the other half was tucked into wonderfully private spots with burn pits and picnic tables. We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies. Hard to believe that there is hiking trails like those in such a densely populated area just outside Elgin, IL."
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Check water connection distances. "We stayed here for a weekend. It's a nice place. Campsites are flat. The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)," advises a Big Rock Campground visitor.
Site selection: Choose wisely for shade and privacy. "Sites in Honeysuckle have electric posts to far from parking pad. Fox Den also has more space between sites, more level pads and each site is tucked away with trees. In Honeysuckle you will have clear line of site to very close neighbor," notes a Fox Den Campground visitor.
Extended stays: Some campgrounds accommodate longer visits. "This is a very popular campground. Lots of big rigs who seem to be staying for quite a while. Our relatives recommended this one since some of their friends use it for 'the summer.' A very nice, well manicured campground. Though a commercial-style, it does not feel like it. Sites are well spaced. Full trees around the perimeter, but not a lot for shade over the campsites," shares a visitor to Elkhorn Campgrounds.
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