Best Equestrian Camping near Chicago, IL

Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground provides dedicated facilities for horse owners in Bourbonnais, Illinois, approximately 60 miles south of Chicago. The campground features drive-in access specifically designed for equestrians with their horses and trailers. Drinking water is available on-site, and fires are permitted in designated fire rings. The campground maintains sanitary dump stations, showers, and toilet facilities. While electric hookups are not available at the equestrian sites, the park's main campground, Potowatomi, offers electric sites for those requiring power. The equestrian sites provide ample space for horse trailers with convenient access to the park's trail system. Sites are spacious with lush vegetation providing natural privacy between camping areas.

The trail system at Kankakee River State Park connects directly to the equestrian campground, offering riders immediate access to scenic routes along the Kankakee River. Riders can explore miles of bridle paths through diverse terrain including wooded areas and riverside trails. The park's location along the river creates opportunities for horses to access water at designated points. Trail conditions remain well-maintained throughout most of the season, though some areas may become muddy after heavy rainfall. The campground's proximity to the river allows for pleasant riding experiences with opportunities to view wildlife. Horse owners should note that reservations are not accepted for the equestrian campground—sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Riders particularly appreciate the combination of accessible trails and basic amenities that make this location suitable for weekend equestrian camping trips near Chicago.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Chicago, Illinois (8)

    1. Paul Wolff Campground

    20 Reviews
    Elgin, IL
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (630) 444-1200

    $12 - $35 / night

    "The staff are super nice and the campground has great social distancing rules in place for the check-in shack and bathrooms."

    "Half of them were in the Prairie and the other half was tucked into wonderfully private spots with burn pits and picnic tables. We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies."

    2. Big Rock Campground

    18 Reviews
    Big Rock, IL
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (630) 232-5980

    $18 - $35 / night

    "Lovely grasslands, ponds, hiking trails, but the lack of trees and privacy isn’t my preference. Still great option not far from Chicago."

    "Clean, with large sites, about a 5 mile walk around the nearby lake- saw several deer and rabbits - T-Mobile worked just fine- no Wi-Fi"

    3. Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park

    14 Reviews
    Bourbonnais, IL
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 933-1383

    "Right at the start of Osage is an entrance to the crushed gravel bike path. It gave us a great hike through the trees. You can find picnic areas and playground equipment by following the bike path."

    "Easy access to water pump. Have to drive to get to the toilet/ shower station though."

    4. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    8 Reviews
    Round Lake, IL
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (847) 546-2228

    $43 - $73 / night

    "We biked around the campground during the days and took advantage of the adult only hot tub hours at night. It was a nice getaway from Chicago."

    "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."

    5. Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    13 Reviews
    Spring Grove, IL
    48 miles
    +1 (847) 587-5512

    "In the Turner loop, the pit toilets are next to the path to the fishing pier, while the showers and full restrooms are between Turner and Fox den, there is a short path between sites 60& 61."

    "Trails were geared more towards horses and bikes, but there are plenty of walking paths, and we were able to find some hidden trails along the lake (read: unofficial)."

    6. Fox Den Campground — Chain O' Lakes State Park

    12 Reviews
    Spring Grove, IL
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (847) 587-5512

    "This park isn't too far away from Chicago, which makes it a great place for a quick get away! There are a variety of sites from electric to non-electric."

    "This campground is within a couple hours of Chicago so it makes a nice getaway for the weekend. Things were pretty filled up when we came here."

    7. Leisure Lake Resort

    3 Reviews
    Joliet, IL
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (815) 741-9405

    $37 / night

    "Quiet, family orientated, fishing lake, miniature golf, activities"

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Equestrian Camping Reviews near Chicago, IL

88 Reviews of 8 Chicago Campgrounds



Guide to Chicago

Horse camping in Illinois offers a unique way to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the company of your equine friends. With several campgrounds catering to horse enthusiasts, you can find the perfect spot to saddle up and enjoy nature.

Equestrian campgrounds include essential amenities

Tips for equestrian camping near Chicago, Illinois

Most campgrounds have horse-focused activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Chicago, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Chicago, IL is Paul Wolff Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 20 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Chicago, IL?

TheDyrt.com has all 8 equestrian camping locations near Chicago, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.