Equestrian campgrounds near Ramsey, Illinois offer trail access and specialized facilities for those traveling with horses. Lake Shelbyville borders the region with 11,100 acres of water surrounded by hardwood forests. Camping options include electric and primitive sites, with horse-specific amenities varying between parks.
What to do
Fishing access: Lake Shelbyville: Clean bathhouse facilities complement the fishing opportunities. "The sites were clean and the fireplace was clean and ready. Camp host were once again very helpful and polite," notes a visitor to Sangchris Lake State Park Campground.
Shoreline exploration: Carlyle Lake: Dam West Spillway offers direct lake access with beach areas within walking distance. "Had a lake front site with beachfront access. It was flat ground, everyone was so nice and it was so clean and the area was lovely," reports a camper.
Trail hiking: Sangchris Lake: The park features multiple trails through wooded areas. Some visitors note trail maintenance can be inconsistent: "The only reason I am giving 4 stars is the fact that the trails and bridges were in horrible condition. It was heartbreaking to see them in this condition as I've walked them since a child."
Swimming: Dam West: Within walking distance of most campsites, the beach provides summer recreation. "There is a beach very near the campground that is within walking distance. There are also pools located near to the campground that can be used by the public."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Dam West Spillway: The campground offers large sites with natural features. "Big, spacious campsites with really pretty, big trees for lots of shade. The bathroom and shower facilities are FABULOUS, and super clean," notes a reviewer at Dam West Spillway.
Quiet atmosphere: Wolf Creek State Park: Weekday stays provide the most solitude. "We were at campsite 18 and it was about 10 min hike down over there. Beautiful and big! Maybe good swimming I would assume? Too late in the year for us," shares a camper from their October visit.
Clean facilities: Stephen A. Forbes Recreation Area: Regular maintenance keeps amenities in good condition. "This state park is a basic but nice state park facility. The tent sites were basic but fairly level and clean. Most of the sites had fire pits and picnic table. The bathrooms were big and clean."
Equestrian amenities: Deer Run Campground: Horse owners appreciate the dedicated spaces. "The sites were large and the primitive sites at the back were incredibly beautiful! The prices were very low," comments a satisfied visitor to Deer Run Campground — Sangchris Lake State Park.
What you should know
Reservation options: Many campgrounds offer both reservation and first-come-first-served sites. At Wolf Creek State Park Campground, "You can reserve spots online in advance but clearly we did not because we didn't know we'd be headed there. Same day is first come first serve."
Wildlife presence: Take precautions with food storage. "Raccoons are really brave and are not afraid of humans. They know how to rip open a tent for food. Nothing is safe here. But a beautiful lake and campground," warns a visitor to Whitley Creek.
Weather considerations: Spring camping can bring unpredictable conditions. "Went in late April and had a good time with not ideal weather. Kid had a blast at playground with other kids," shares a camper at Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area.
Horse regulations: Each equestrian campground enforces specific rules. Ramsey Lake offers equestrian sites but lacks electricity according to visitors, while other areas have stricter policies about actually bringing horses to equestrian-designated sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer playground equipment. "The park is reasonable priced, beautiful surrounding and friendly staff. Would definitely come again. The only downside is that it's somewhat far from supply stores," notes a camper at Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs operate seasonally. "They have activities for children on the weekends. The campsites have sewer and water on some sites, as well as other sites with electricity available," mentions a Dam West visitor.
Fishing with kids: Lake access points make fishing accessible for children. "This is a great little place to go fishing and just spend some time relaxing. Deer Run is mostly trailers and RVs, but can easily accommodate tent campers, and is less crowded than Hickory Point."
Swimming safety: Beach areas vary in maintenance. "The beach was small and also not well kept. I only saw one hiking trail. Many of the other campers had boats, so I guess it might be a good place to stay if you're a boater."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric is standard but water access varies. At Sangchris Lake State Park Hickory Point, "Electric only but water available and nice dump station. All sites at Hickory Point very close to lake. Several fishing docks in campground."
Site leveling: Many campgrounds have mixed reviews on site leveling. "I was surprised when I arrived that there wasn't a ranger, host, or campground office to check in with. There was a self registration kiosk on the site that was supposed to be the host."
Water access distance: Water spigots can be distant from sites. "Nice park, spacious sites, bring plenty of water hose. The water faucets for fill up can be a bit far away. Shower house was older but was heated and water was hot. Definitely will be back again."
Supply considerations: Isolated locations mean limited access to stores. "The park is reasonable priced, beautiful surrounding and friendly staff. Would definitely come again. The only downside is that it's somewhat far from supply stores."
