9 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Horseman's Park at Sand Ridge State Forest features individual tie-up posts at each campsite along with picnic tables in a single loop configuration. The inner ring of sites functions as a group camping area while outer ring sites offer more privacy against the forest edge. Vault toilets and garbage receptacles are centrally located with multiple manure disposal areas throughout the grounds. The sandy terrain provides natural drainage during wet weather, making this location suitable for camping throughout the riding season. Trails heading directly from the campground connect riders to nearly 15 miles of equestrian routes through the forest.
Located 30 miles southwest of Brimfield, Jubilee College State Park Campground provides well-maintained horse trails through varied terrain. The trail system supports hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding with routes that are regularly maintained and clearly marked. Across the road from the main camping area, day-use riders can park their trailers in a designated lot that accommodates multiple rigs. The yellow loop trail features steep sandy hills that effectively tire energetic horses, according to ranger recommendations. Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground also accommodates equestrian campers with a separate camping area that includes approximately 4-5 individual sites, each equipped with wooden hitching posts for securing horses overnight.
"Excellent horse trails. Went with a group of around 8 people and it was beautiful! Well maintained."
"The abundant forest, trails and the creek going through the park make this an ideal place to visit during spring and fall. Summer is ok too but may get a bit hot in Central Illinois for my taste."
"Comlara is a beautifully laid out hidden gem in Illinois. Evergreen Lake is the perfect back drop to the campground."
"Located just northwest of Bloomington, which is located absolutely smack-dab in the middle of the state of Illinois, you’ll discover a nature wonderland over here nearly hidden from plain site."
"This is the campground for horses and their riders. Tie up posts are in each campsite along with picnic tables."
"Lots of trails nearby, and plenty of beautiful green trees. Outhouse on site. One of the more quiet sites that doesn’t get a lot of action."
from $8 / night
"Plenty of hiking along the canal and 10 miles away from most stores. Fee is $8 however if you’re an Illinois resident over 62 camping is free Sunday through Thursday nights."
"Located literally just a few stone’s throw due west of the tiny town of Wyanet, which is just a few miles west of better-known Princeton, you will access this little spec of undisturbed primitive camping"
from $8 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $8 / night
Check Availability"Nestled along a 104.5-mile corridor across parts of northwestern Illinois, Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park offers a unique and unexpectedly charming, albeit primitive camping experience."
"Shade trees, soft grass, a nice trail to walk & great views. The stars in the night sky are breathtaking! This isn't some posh camping for someone looking to get a resort-feel."
from $8 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $22 / night
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Guide$25 a night for 30 amp hookup is pretty good! The sites are clean and spacious. It’s quiet too! Pretty lake, but sites aren’t right on the lake.
The bathrooms need some work. Water had a boil order on it and showers only worked in the men’s room. Water was HOT! Which is great! However, the water smelled metallic…
TravelerYou must pack in your own water and there are no electric hookups. Beautiful well maintained grounds with lots of open sky for starlink.
LegendSet just off I-80 near Sheffield, the Lock 22 Campground offers some of the simplest, most serene camping you’ll find in the Hennepin Canal State Trail system. Here, you’re not at a full-service campground– this is the kind of place where the canal’s old lock whispers history and the towpath beckons walkers and anglers. First impressions? A flat, grassy expanse with scattered trees, picnic tables, pit toilets and a quiet canal-side vibe that is refreshingly basic, peaceful and full of charm if you’re into low-maintenance camping.
As a Class ‘C’ campground, Lock 22 offers primitive facilities only, meaning no showers, no hookups and no electricity(yes, a whole lot of‘Nos’), but it does include toilets and drinking water. Campsites are vehicle-accessible and the$8/night per-family fee is collected in person by a site security officer(if they show up), on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth groups follow a separate fee schedule with minimums and supervision rules. Camping is quiet, basic, and outdoors-first here.
What really sets this spot apart is its location and simplicity. It’s under the lock bridge itself, so be sure to bring a chair, toss a line in the canal and wander the towpath trails that take you past aqueducts and marshes. Cell service is reported as excellent, making it a surprisingly connected getaway. Nearby, Sheffield offers a few basic services, and you're within easy driving distance of I-80 and surrounding towns.
Insider Tips? Here’s a handful:(1) For the flattest, quietest camping, choose a grassy site closest to the canal but back off from the parking area;(2) Bring all the water you'll need as while Lock 22 has drinking water, it’s only at a designated faucet and not at the campsites themselves;(3) The canal towpath is fantastic for peaceful walking, biking, fishing and bird-watching, but for the best experience, get there early;(4) Check the Visitor Center north of I-80 for trail maps so that you can plan your canal hiking and camping;(5) No campfires outside of designated fire pits, so I would strongly encourage you to bring alternative cooking options like a butane or propane-fueled stove or range; and(6) If you drive into Sheffield check out Wings Café serving hearty comfort food, or try The Dug-Out Sports Pub for pub-style eats and local atmosphere.
Happy Camping!
ScoutI live near this park and have used it regularly for years. It is certainly nothing special... just a nice average park. I usually do a combination van and tent camp here and it is totally adequate for that. It looks to be fine for RVs as well. The pit toilets are usually clean and relatively bug free. The shower house is clean and adequate. I just think of this as my "local campground"... my go to for a quick weekend getaway to set up and use my gear, and have friends out to share a fire. The park itself is nice, quiet and clean. You will see deer and raccoons. Jubilee is off a County Highway (Rt 150), about 5 miles off I-74. Small town with DG and Gas stations are about 5 miles away; Peoria IL is 15ish miles away.
LegendNestled along a 104.5-mile corridor across parts of northwestern Illinois, Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park offers a unique and unexpectedly charming, albeit primitive camping experience. Spread across multiple sites like Lock 6, Lock 11, Lock 21, Bridge 14, and Lock 22, this park stretches its campsites along a historic towpath beside century-old canal locks. First impressions? Think gentle grass clearings, basic picnic setups and a nostalgic vibe that combines outdoor adventure with engineering heritage all the while living up to bare-bones camping ethos.
Facilities remain strictly primitive as this is ‘Class C’ camping, meaning no hookups, no showers, no modern frills … just a pit toilet and a fire ring at each site. Cost is only $8 per night per family. Youth groups pay a minimum daily fee starting at $20. Other perks: senior citizens and disabled campers may qualify for free stays, depending on day and status. You’ll need to stop by the Visitor Center near Sheffield to pay (no reservations and everything at each lock is considered first-come, first-served), and all the drinking water is only available at central locations at each lock, not at individual campsites, so plan accordingly. Quiet hours run from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., and campfires must stay in designated pits.
The setting is deeply outdoorsy and expansive. The canal’s towpath is a cyclist’s and hiker’s dream, with up to 155 miles to explore (miles of level surface, biking, hiking, horseback riding in some sections and even snowmobiling when it’s seasonally open). Anglers love the Hennepin Canal system as the waters are regularly stocked with bass, bluegill, walleye, catfish and even trout during special stocking events. Canoeing and kayaking are permitted with portage around non-operational locks and birding or historical sightseeing along the route is a delightful bonus.
Insider Tips? Here’s a smattering: (1) Pick campsites closest to the canal but slightly back from parking that will deliver land that is flatter, vistas that are more scenic and spaces that are quieter; (2) Swing by the Visitor Center near Sheffield first for maps and essential info as you’ll need drinking water from there in case you didn’t bring your own;(3) If traveling with a dog or horse, check designations as only certain sites (e.g. Lock 21) allow equestrian camping; (4) Fishermen should bring rods early as anglers that I encountered say the catches here are worth the effort; (5) No pumps / dump stations so pack accordingly and use nearby towns for full services; and (6) Post-camping grub: head to Sheffield afterward for local eats like Belluccio’s for deep dish pizza, Italian beef & sausage sandwiches, Café 129 with its smoked prime rib and Red’s Bar & Grill for fantastic deep fried pork tenderloin sandwiches, which is a staple in these parts.
Happy Camping!
ScoutNice staff members can't complain. It has everything needed to get away and still not stress about comfort well kept and maintained alcohol and campfire is a must to experience the full camping trip no hangover no fun just drink responsibly and be kind and respectful to other fellow campers
ScoutListed on app as free, but it actually requires a reservation and fee.
GuideWater was available on my visit 10-7 thru 10-10. The place is clean and well kept, including the pit toilets. Plenty of hiking along the canal and 10 miles away from most stores. Fee is $8 however if you’re an Illinois resident over 62 camping is free Sunday through Thursday nights.
GuideBeautiful, quiet, and clean park. I stopped for a quick overnight but will definitely be back to stay when I have more time. Sites could use more space as there is no privacy at all but that's the only thing that needs improvement.
The equestrian camping scene around Brimfield offers sand-based trails and facilities specifically designed for horses and riders. Located in central Illinois where sandy soil dominates certain forest areas, these campgrounds provide natural drainage during wet weather conditions. Temperatures in the region typically range from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer, with spring and fall offering moderate riding conditions between 50-70°F.
Trail riding at Jubilee College State Park: The park maintains trails for various skill levels with different terrain challenges. As Rachel H. notes, "Excellent horse trails. Went with a group of around 8 people and it was beautiful! Well maintained."
Mountain biking through forested areas: Jubilee College trails support multiple activities beyond horseback riding. "Our family had a day out there on our bikes and loved it!" shares Sarra W., highlighting the family-friendly nature of the multi-use trails.
Overnight camping along Hennepin Canal: The historic canal provides unique camping spots with water access. "If you are traveling through on your bike or need a quick, inexpensive stay for the night," Art S. recommends Hennepin Canal Lock 22 Campground, noting that "we hiked both directions along the canal. Imagine a flat trail with the canal on one side and farmland on the other."
Quiet camping environments: Many equestrian sites offer peaceful settings away from crowds. At Jubilee College State Park Campground, Joe M. appreciates that it's "Great campground to get out of the city. The viewing of stars is incredible."
Water access for fishing: Comlara County Park combines camping with lakeside activities. "You can rent boats and kayaks to take out on the lake during the day and grills throughout the park to have a bbq at night with friends," mentions Sage C., adding that "there are a few playgrounds for the kids to stay busy as well as small marked trails to follow."
Budget-friendly accommodations: Many equestrian campgrounds near Brimfield maintain affordable rates. Jesse B. notes that Horseman's Park — Sand Ridge State Forest costs "$8. The staff isn't always there, so you could end up with a free place to stay (especially if you come late.)"
Primitive amenities: Most horse campgrounds offer basic facilities. "This is a good spot for an overnight rest but there isn't much more to the amenities than the campsites," explains Art S. about Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Some areas have active wildlife populations. Ashley C. reports a surprising encounter at Jubilee College State Park: "at about midnight there were at least 3 bobcats snarling and growling near our tents and then they circled our tents, sniffing them."
Water quality concerns: Water sources may have mineral content. Nathan E. observed at Jubilee College that "Bathrooms clean, but shower house water smelled like sulfur."
Seasonal closures: Trail access varies throughout the year. Jonathan J. mentions, "The trails will be closed for deer season though," when describing winter camping at Jubilee College State Park.
Playgrounds and activities: Comlara County Park offers child-friendly amenities. "Camping plots are very open with options very close to the water. You can rent boats and kayaks to take out on the lake during the day and grills throughout the park to have a bbq at night with friends. There are a few playgrounds for the kids to stay busy," notes Sage C.
Tent-only areas for privacy: Comlara County Park offers secluded tent sites away from RVs. Scott N. recommends: "The rustic tent sites are located on the opposite side of the lake from the RV's in an area called White Oak. These sites are the way to go for privacy."
Weather preparedness: Central Illinois experiences varied weather conditions. As Ranko K. advises about Jubilee College State Park, "The abundant forest, trails and the creek going through the park make this an ideal place to visit during spring and fall. Summer is ok too but may get a bit hot in Central Illinois for my taste."
Site leveling requirements: Plan for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. Kathie M. cautions about Comlara County Park: "Site 28 unlevel. Requires several lifts. Site is very large however. Does have nice shade."
Size accommodation varies: While some parks can handle large rigs, others have limitations. Jeff and Linda L. mention that at Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground, "We saw a class A, so they do fit" despite the primitive setting with "No hook-ups, just grass with a fire pit and table."
Electric hookup availability: Not all equestrian campgrounds offer electrical connections. For instance, Horseman's Park at Sand Ridge State Forest lacks electric hookups, while Jubilee College State Park has "three main loops with RV pads and electric goo ups," according to Brooke C., who adds, "We tent camp and majority for the sites also have plenty of room for one or two tents."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Brimfield, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Brimfield, IL is Jubilee College State Park Campground with a 3.7-star rating from 18 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Brimfield, IL?
TheDyrt.com has all 9 equestrian camping locations near Brimfield, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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