Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground provides specialized facilities for horse owners in Bourbonnais, Illinois. The campground sits on terrain characterized by wooded areas and proximity to the Kankakee River, with elevations ranging between 580-600 feet above sea level. Weather conditions vary seasonally with humid summers averaging 85°F and winters dropping to below freezing temperatures, affecting trail conditions and camping comfort.
What to do
Trail riding adventures: Riders can access an extensive network of bridle paths beyond what connects directly to the campground. "The area is well kept, clean, and well managed. I have frequented this park because it offers a lot of activities from primitive camping, RV parking, fishing, hiking, biking, backpacking, etc," reports Andrea F. about Kankakee River State Park.
Historical exploration: Visit the small cemetery near the regular camping areas with centuries-old tombstones. According to phillip L., "This site is near a small cemetery that has tombstones that are hundreds of years old... There is a short hike that crosses a bridge and it goes along the river."
Biking opportunities: The paved trail system provides excellent biking options for when you're not on horseback. Shannon H. confirms, "Bike path/hike path is long and wide and very nice. We had kids under age 8. River is fast, tried to fish."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The regular campground features good separation between sites that horse campers can also enjoy during their stay. "The campsites are very spread out and you will have a very private quiet campsite," notes phillip L., who stayed at Davis Creek area.
Clean facilities: The park maintains its amenities well, which is important for equestrian campers. "Bathrooms inclu vault were cleanest I've seen," reports Shannon H. This attention to cleanliness extends throughout the park's facilities.
Nature immersion: The park offers genuine wilderness experiences despite being relatively close to urban areas. Jacqueline F. appreciates this aspect: "We loved riding our bikes along the river and just being away from the hustle and bustle... A great spot to get away and experience some silence and solitude!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak times, securing a spot ahead of time is essential. Ray S. notes about Kankakee River State Park: "This is a reasonablly priced campground with all facilities in great condition. And it is very spacious with woods separating your neighbors."
Water availability: Water sources are limited in some camping areas, so planning ahead is important. Phillip L. advises, "The restrooms were really dirty and had a lot of insects flying around. There is no running water at the site so bring plenty."
Site variations: Some sites are better suited for certain equipment types than others. Shannon H. explains, "We had four sites on Osage loop for tent camping. Two were very small (14&15), and little grass for tent setup, fine for RV or trailer campers... Wish we knew more about individual site layout."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife encounters: The park offers educational opportunities with local fauna. Linda N. shares about Potowatomi Campground: "We did have a really awesome time at the main office/nature center, where my kiddos got to feed and hold a variety of reptiles!"
River safety awareness: The river provides scenic views but requires caution with children. "The river was nice to visit and we were able to take the kids to some knee deep water to play (swimming is NOT allowed in the river)," notes Linda N.
Weather preparedness: Temperature extremes affect comfort, especially with children. Emma H. recounts, "It rained a ton during our trip so we didn't explore much, but would definitely recommend for a simple camping trip where you want flushable toilets, showers, and some electricity."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric services are limited in the equestrian area compared to main campgrounds. Maya L. mentions about regular camping: "came in without a reservation and got a nice spot for a camper, showers were decent and hosts were nice!!"
Campground host assistance: Staff can provide valuable information about current conditions. Linda N. appreciates this aspect: "The camp hosts were really fantastic and made it feel like family."
Noise considerations: Equestrian camping near Bourbonnais may experience varying noise levels depending on the day. Ray S. notes, "The only complaint is the noise level after 10pm. The quite time was not strictly enforced. It could be we are there on a Saturday night."
Legend
