Equestrian and traditional camping options exist near Collinsville, Illinois, where campers can explore lakeside settings and wooded parks with access to extensive trail systems. The region features several equestrian-focused camping areas, particularly in the county parks west of the Mississippi River. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: At Greensfelder County Park, horse owners can access well-marked trails directly from their campsites. "Trails are well marked maps available Awsome views and a cool trail by six flags this park is busy with hikers and bikers I'd say 90% of them are polite and yield to horses," notes Alicia B.
Fishing access: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground provides peaceful lakeside camping with boating and fishing options. "Good fishing, trails and memories waiting to be made," writes Travis, who adds that the park charges just "$8 a night" for campsites.
Hiking explorations: The trail systems at many parks offer hiking options for non-equestrians too. A camper at Greensfelder County Park mentions, "There are two trail heads near the campground (very nice hiking!)" The park maintains trails for multiple user groups with clear signage.
What campers like
Affordable camping: Many campers appreciate the value at Dam West Spillway campground. "This campground qualifies for the senior pass for reduced rates. It is directly on Carlyle Lake, the largest lake in Illinois," explains Jeanie H., who also notes the campground has "a lot of mature trees" providing "plenty of shade in the summer."
Clean facilities: Maintaining clean bathrooms can be challenging at horse campgrounds, but visitors report good experiences. At Dam West Spillway, campers find "FABULOUS, and super clean" bathroom and shower facilities that "smell like the laundry facilities as well," according to Heather S.
Natural settings: Even campgrounds close to urban areas can provide a nature experience. Lucas M. describes St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA as offering "plenty of beauty, creature comfort amenities, and cell service" while noting "the place has A LOT of deer."
What you should know
Campground popularity: Horse campgrounds near Collinsville can get busy, especially on weekends. At Greensfelder County Park, one camper notes it "got really busy on Saturday morning because the equestrian folks use the campground as a staging area."
Campsite variations: Sites at horse campgrounds often vary in size and amenities. Matthew H. explains at Greensfelder County Park, "Only sites 20-29 have electric" and "sites 24-26 can fit a fifth wheel probably no bigger than 36-38 ft."
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation. At World Shooting and Recreational Complex, Christi L. mentions it's "Quiet but can be dry and hot in the summer," while at Route 66 KOA, Todd P. warns "It will be even better when they invent silent trains."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Dam West Spillway offers family-friendly features. "There is a beach very near the campground that is within walking distance. There are also pools located near to the campground that can be used by the public," notes Jeanie H. The campground also has "activities for children on the weekends."
Kid-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds include features specifically for families. At Route 66 KOA, Crystal H. reports, "There is a pool, bike rentals, dog park, movie night, basketball court, and more."
Safety considerations: Parents appreciate campgrounds with security. Annie C. notes that at Horseshoe Lake, "the nice thing is the campground is staffed by rangers in the day, and at night they sometimes take a security swing through the campground."
Tips from RVers
Electric service limitations: At horse campgrounds, power can be limited. Matthew H. points out that at Greensfelder County Park, there are "2-20 amp plugs and 1-30amp plug" at most sites, but "no 50 amps" are available.
Campsite selection: RVers should research campsite dimensions. At Dam West Spillway, "Many of the sites are blacktopped and large RV's will fit on the sites," according to Jeanie H., who adds that "the campsites have sewer and water on some sites."
Dump station access: Not all equestrian campgrounds have dump stations. Matthew H. notes that while Greensfelder County Park has "no dump" station, there's a "KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away" for those needing to empty tanks.
