Chain O' Lakes State Park offers several camping options for horse enthusiasts beyond the standard equestrian camping facilities. Primitive sites in Prairie View and Fox Den campgrounds accommodate equestrians with their own containment solutions at lower costs than fully-equipped sites. The park maintains a 10-mile network of designated equestrian trails through varied terrain including wetlands and oak woodlands, with water access points marked on trail maps.
What to do
Kayaking through connected lakes: Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park provides excellent access for paddling through the chain of lakes system. "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," notes Cora M.
Wildlife observation on trails: Many of the primitive camping areas connect directly to wildlife viewing areas. "The trail is wide which meant my doggo hiked by my side. We both enjoyed it," reports Art S. about Pinewoods Campground, adding that the diverse hiking options make it worth returning to.
Winter equestrian trail access: While many horse campgrounds near Bull Valley, Illinois close during winter months, select trails at Fox Den Campground remain accessible during mild winter conditions. "There are hiking trails and this campground is the closest to the boat dock and concession which serves as the camp store," explains Debra M., highlighting the camp's strategic location for accessing multiple recreational activities.
What campers like
Budget-friendly primitive camping: Horse camping options near Bull Valley offer economical alternatives to standard equestrian facilities. "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," shares Addison G. about Turner Lake South.
Privacy between sites: Turner Lake South receives praise for site layout. "The campsites are kinda small but not on top of each other. Had some raccoons at night even after we locked up everything in the car. The lake was very nice," explains Julia B., who appreciated the clear water visibility for wildlife viewing.
Equestrian-friendly atmosphere: The welcoming nature of staff toward horse owners stands out at equestrian campsites. "Rangers were helpful and delivered firewood to our site daily," notes Aida K. about her experience at Fox Den, where designated areas for horse camping include space for trailers and portable corrals.
What you should know
Wildlife management: Campers should secure food properly when staying at equestrian sites. "Had some raccoons at night even after we locked up everything in the car," warns Julia B. about Turner Lake South. Wildlife encounters are common throughout the trail system.
Campsite selection strategy: For those seeking maximum privacy with horses, specific loops offer advantages. "The best sites for those hoping for privacy are in Turner Lake South and Mud Lake East. The campsites are a little bigger in Turner Lake South, I feel, but both have campsites circled by woods with a level place to pitch a tent," advises Marisa A.
Seasonal considerations: Paul Wolff Campground offers alternative equestrian options when Chain O' Lakes reaches capacity. "I've seen weekends with mainly RVs and one weekend with a quarter of the drive-in sites being tents. The most shaded sites are p1,3,5,7 and 9," notes Marisa A., highlighting site variations.
Tips for camping with families
Water access points: When camping with horses and children, water access becomes important. "The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by. This loop is best for tent camping. The other loops are basically all rvs," explains Julia B. about Turner Lake South, noting the challenges of lake access with "Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy."
Multi-activity options: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort offers alternatives when equestrian campgrounds are full. "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," shares Leo V.
Site selection for shade: When camping with horses in summer, shade becomes critical. "The sites in Turner lake south are pretty worn, with not much privacy. We stayed in T10, but would consider T9 if we returned to this loop for a different reserved site," advises Claire S., providing specific site recommendations.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: RVers with horses should note water hookup placements. "The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)," cautions Rodney D. about Big Rock Forest Preserve, a consideration when selecting equestrian camping sites with RV access.
Level sites importance: "Sites in Honeysuckle have electric posts too 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," explains Debra M., highlighting the advantages of Fox Den for RV campers with horses.
Advance planning for holiday weekends: "Chain O Lakes in general get pretty busy on the water, but the state park is off the main part of the water system, so even a little fishingboat can be fun without the large speedboat wakes here," advises Marisa A., noting the importance of timing for RVers with horse trailers seeking less crowded conditions.
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