Equestrian camping near Bolingbrook, Illinois offers unique opportunities for riders to explore the region's wooded river valleys and prairie landscapes. The area sits at approximately 700 feet above sea level in northeastern Illinois, where the climate features humid summers with temperatures often reaching the 90s and cold winters with regular snowfall. Horse owners seeking overnight accommodations can access designated equestrian campgrounds within a 30-40 mile radius of Bolingbrook.
What to do
Trail riding along the Kankakee River: The equestrian trails at Kankakee River State Park connect directly to camping areas, allowing riders to explore 12 miles of scenic paths. As one camper noted, "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!" (Jacqueline F.)
Explore forest preserve trails: Burnidge Forest Preserve offers varied terrain for riders within 40 miles of Bolingbrook. A visitor shared: "I've seen lots of butterflies, gold finches, hawks, deer, flocks of giant sandhill cranes, rabbits, ground squirrels, and of course actual squirrels" (Marisa A.).
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds in the area provide fishing access. At Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort, "The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side" (Chloe N.). Some lakefront sites allow fishing directly from your campsite.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Kankakee River State Park provides spacious sites that offer separation from neighbors. "The campsites are very spread out and you will have a very private quiet campsite" (Phillip L.). Another camper mentioned that sites 16 and 17 on Osage loop were "amazing for tents!! Open, tall trees for our tight rope and hammocks and shade. Grass for tents" (Shannon H.).
Family-friendly atmosphere: The campgrounds near Bolingbrook welcome families with children. At Leisure Lake Resort, visitors appreciate the "Quiet, family orientated, fishing lake, miniature golf, activities" (Karel M.). Another camper described it as "Beautiful Quiet and friendly... Great for kids lots of activities and space to play But very quiet and relaxing by nighttime" (Christin D.).
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower houses. A visitor to Paul Wolff Campground noted it's a "Great campsite with the best staff ever! The sites are clean and very well maintained. We loved the staff patrolling the grounds" (David W.).
What you should know
Reservation policies vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. At Big Rock Campground, "Walkup only - no reservations taken. $35 a night is a bit steep" (Amanda K.). Plan accordingly, especially during summer weekends.
Limited shade at newer campgrounds: Many newer facilities haven't developed mature tree canopy yet. "This is a pretty new camp site, so the trees need some time to get big enough to provide some shade" (David W.). Consider bringing shade structures during summer months.
Water hookup logistics: Water access points aren't always conveniently located at all campsites. One camper advised, "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!" (Amanda K.). Another noted, "The water spigots are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)" (Rodney D.).
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Paul Wolff Campground offers hiking trails suitable for children. "We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies. Hard to believe that there is hiking trails like those in such a densely populated area just outside Elgin, IL" (Tricia E.).
Wildlife education opportunities: Families camping near Kankakee River State Park can visit the nature center. One parent shared: "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!" (Linda N.).
Heat considerations: Playgrounds at some campgrounds lack shade coverage. "Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had" (Linda N.). Visit in spring or fall for more comfortable temperatures or plan activities for morning hours.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for size and shade: At Paul Wolff Campground, "Sites are well spaced. Full trees around the perimeter, but not a lot for shade over the campsites. Water and electrical at every site. Very easy in and out, for any sized rig" (MalibuDave42 L.).
Leveling considerations: Big Rock Campground provides flat parking areas. "Nice campground with big, level sites. Even though they don't take reservations, there is plenty of space and availability" (Melissa C.). This makes setup easier for larger rigs.
Water filtration needs: Some campgrounds in the area have water quality issues. One long-term camper at Leisure Lake Resort reported: "Water quality has been very bad... The water is so unclean that our shower develops yellow stains within a day, and we've had to install a five-stage filtration system just to make it usable" (Iryna R.). Consider bringing water filters if staying for extended periods.
