Horseman's Park isn't the only option for equestrian camping near Beason, Illinois. Several state parks within 40 miles offer dedicated facilities for riders and their horses. The sandy terrain throughout Sand Ridge State Forest creates excellent drainage conditions in wet weather, while flat terrain at other locations provides easier riding for beginners or older horses.
What to do
Kayaking at Moraine View: Moraine View State Recreational Area offers a calm lake setting for paddling. "Nice lake for fishing and kayaking. Excellent restaurant on site also," notes Kelly M. The lake at Moraine View State Park is particularly suited for beginners with protected coves and minimal boat traffic during weekdays.
Trail riding at Questing Hills: Located approximately 35 miles northwest of Beason, the equestrian campground at Jim Edgar Panther Creek offers 51 electric sites specifically designed for horse campers. "A separate location has the equestrian campground, Questing Hills, with 51 electric sites," confirms David F. Trail access directly from campsites makes this an alternative to Horseman's Park.
Fishing from private docks: Many sites at Sangchris Lake State Park Campground include direct lake access with personal fishing areas. "We always get sites with our own private dock to fish from," reports Kaitlin D. The fishing areas stay productive even during summer heat when anglers focus on early mornings and evenings.
What campers like
Sandy terrain for all-weather riding: The unique soil composition at Sand Ridge State Forest creates excellent drainage. "The yellow loop... tires everyone because it's steep hills of sand," notes Art S. from Sand Ridge Horse Campground. These conditions make it usable even after heavy rains when muddier trails would be impassable.
Quiet, distanced primitive sites: For those seeking solitude away from RV areas, primitive camping offers more privacy. "The primitive sites at the back were incredibly beautiful! The prices were very low," reports Colin H. about Deer Run Campground. Sites often include three-sided shelters for protection from weather.
Family facilities and playgrounds: Campgrounds near Beason commonly include recreation areas for children. "The campground has nice bathrooms with showers. Choice of full hookup or just electric on outer perimeters of each loop. Small fishing lake," describes Steve H. about Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek. The dedicated play areas provide activity options beyond trail riding.
What you should know
Weather and wind considerations: Several campgrounds in the region experience significant wind due to limited tree cover. "This is a nice campground but the only downside is that it can be pretty windy," explains J K. "Under developed CG. Lots of hunting and fishing opportunities but grounds are years always from being fully grown. Always super windy too!" adds Lucas T.
Trail map discrepancies: Hiking routes may not match exactly with published maps. "The inconsistencies between the trail map and the actual trail" can cause confusion according to Joy H., who noted trails at Sand Ridge are "marked very clearly with directional sign posts" despite mapping issues.
Reservation requirements vary: While some equestrian sites operate first-come, first-served, others require advance booking, especially during hunting seasons. "We walked in to do camping and we only had spots available at Tall Timber. It's primitive along with nice trail," notes Alice L. about finding last-minute availability at Comlara County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with playground access: Multiple campgrounds include dedicated play areas for children. "Deer Run is mostly trailers and RVs, but can easily accommodate tent campers, and is less crowded than Hickory Point. The campground hosts are very friendly and helpful," shares Amy S.
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping or during questionable weather, cabins provide compromise accommodations. "Praire Lake Campground has 3 facilities on the lake. FAMILY camp for Rv, Tent and cabins," explains David F. These structures offer protection from both wind and insects while still providing outdoor access.
Check swimming restrictions: Not all lakes allow swimming, and those that do may have limited hours. "The swimming beach is apparently only open on the weekends but there are plenty of places to get in the water so it wasn't a big deal," notes Brandi M. about Illinois State Fair Campground.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup limitations: While most equestrian campgrounds accommodate RVs, amenities may be limited compared to standard campgrounds. "The campground lacks electric hookups but provides space for larger rigs," according to site reports. Some parks offer electric-only sites requiring self-contained water systems.
Manure disposal protocols: Horse camping requires adhering to specific waste management rules. At Sand Ridge State Forest, riders must "pack out all horse waste as no manure disposal facilities are available" while other facilities like Questing Hills provide designated manure collection areas away from campsites.
Level site selection: When camping with horses and RVs together, prioritize level sites for trailer stability. "Sites all seemed flat (meant for RVs but most had grass good for tent setup) and most were shady," notes Sarah M. This ensures both comfortable camping and secure containment for horses overnight.
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