Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground sits 40 miles southwest of Chicago Heights at an elevation of 584 feet along the Kankakee River valley. The campground connects to over 12 miles of multi-use trails through woodland and riverside terrain. Trail conditions vary seasonally with spring often bringing muddy sections requiring careful navigation.
What to do
Explore riverside trails: The trail system at Kankakee River State Park offers extensive hiking and biking opportunities alongside equestrian use. "There are some rock cliffs that are suspended over the Kankakee river and also over a creek that feeds it. These are great for climbing and scaling. Additionally, there are Indian caves through the creek where you can still find arrowheads," notes Andrea F.
Wildlife observation: The park's diverse habitats support varied wildlife viewing opportunities. "We had a private, large spot in one of their 'neighborhoods.' Beautiful stroll along the river with my pup," shares Nicole K. The river corridors and woodland edges provide prime locations for birdwatching during migration seasons.
Educational reptile encounters: The nature center provides hands-on wildlife learning experiences. "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," reports Linda N., making this an educational opportunity beyond standard trail activities.
What campers like
Site privacy: Horse campers appreciate the spacious layout that accommodates trailers while maintaining separation between camping parties. "The sites are straightforward and vary quite a bit: some are huge with open green space and others I feel like just for a car and a tent. Our site was perfect with trees to hang a hammock on and for the kids to run around," explains Linda N. at Potowatomi Campground.
Clean facilities: The equestrian campground maintains well-serviced restroom facilities. "Bathrooms including vault were cleanest I've seen," notes Shannon H., highlighting the park staff's attention to sanitation even during busy holiday weekends.
Natural separation: The campground's layout creates natural buffers between sites. "Lush area with lots of privacy. I wish we were able to stay longer than one day! I loved this spot! We loved riding our bikes along the river and just being away from the hustle and bustle," shares Jacqueline F., emphasizing the sense of seclusion despite the campground's popularity.
What you should know
Limited availability: Walk-in sites can fill quickly, especially during peak season. "The sites are really limited around here so I recommend reserving weeks earlier or just come early," advises Phillip L. at Big Rock Campground, which shares similar popularity challenges to Kankakee's equestrian areas.
Varying site conditions: Site quality and suitability vary significantly throughout the equestrian campground. "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. They were private with brush between sites. 16&17 were amazing for tents," details Shannon H.
Water access challenges: Water hookups can require additional equipment. "The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)," warns Rodney D., a consideration particularly important for horse campers needing water for their animals.
Tips for camping with families
Visit during weekdays: Campground noise levels fluctuate depending on day of week. "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," notes Ray S. at Leisure Lake Resort, reflecting a common challenge at popular equestrian campgrounds near Chicago.
Select sites strategically: When camping with children near equestrian areas, site selection impacts experience significantly. "Wish we knew more about individual site layout. Grills were new. Bathrooms including vault were cleanest I've seen. Bike path/hike path is long and wide and very nice. We had kids under age 8," reports Shannon H.
Check weather forecasts: Seasonal conditions affect trail accessibility for both horses and hikers. "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," shares Emma H.
Tips from RVers
Water supply planning: RVers camping near equestrian areas should prepare for water hookup limitations. "As someone who normally camps in state parks with only electricity hookups, this site was a welcome treat... Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!" advises Amanda K. at Big Rock Forest Preserve.
Level site availability: Finding suitable sites for larger rigs requires advance planning. "Nice campground with big, level sites. Even though they don't take reservations, there is plenty of space and availability," reports Melissa C., noting an important consideration for RVers traveling with horse trailers.
Electric options: Equestrian campers with RVs should research electrical availability. "The spacious sites with lush greenery grown between them provide good separation between camping parties, which horse owners appreciate when managing their animals," notes a frequent visitor, highlighting the balance between convenience and natural surroundings.
