Best Equestrian Camping near Columbia, IL
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Best Equestrian Sites Near Columbia, IL (9)
1. St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA
Eureka, Missouri30 Reviews•48 Photos•122 SavesEnjoy picturesque camping as it was meant to be - with lots of trees, a babbling creek, fireflies, a campfire under a starlit sky, and all Pull-Thru RV Sites. Located on Historic Route 66, this KOA is less than 1 mile from Six Flags St. Louis and I-44. It's an easy 30 minutes from other St. Louis attractions, including the Gateway Arch, Forest Park, Zoo, Missouri Botanical Garden, City Museum, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, and Grant's Farm. Stay in a Deluxe Cabin or on a Patio RV Site or Premium Tent Site. Kids love all the activities/amenities, such as the heated pool, gem mining station, and new Jumping Pillow. Groups love the pavilion and meeting space with A/C. Pool: May 10 - September 30. Your host: Paul Shepherd.
- Electric Hookups
- ADA Access
- Equestrian
- Tent Cabin
- Yurts
- Glamping
2. Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground
Wildwood, Missouri27 Reviews•64 Photos•149 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
3. Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground
Collinsville, Illinois10 Reviews•12 Photos•96 SavesHorseshoe Lake State Park is located off Highway 111 in the southwestern part of Illinois in Madison County. With easy access from the Metro East for visitors from throughout the region, the park offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities on 2,960 acres.
Horseshoe Lake State Park accommodates 26 tent or trailer campsites. A sanitary dump station, pit toilets, and hydrants are conveniently located. The campground is open from May 1 - Sept 30. Campers can stay a maximum of 7 days in a 30-day period. We do not take reservations for camping. Although, group camping reservations are accepted through the ExploreMoreIL™ website.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
4. St. Francois State Park Campground
Bonne Terre, Missouri26 Reviews•80 Photos•74 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
5. Greensfelder County Park
Eureka, Missouri7 Reviews•32 Photos•57 SavesLaying at the foothills of the gently rolling Ozark mountain range, Greensfelder Park features lovely shaded trails and spectacular views, horse boarding, equestrian and group camping, hayrides, trails, nature learning center, picnic sites and shelters, playground and trim orienteering course.
The area was donated to St. Louis County in 1963 by the Trustees of the St. Louis Regional Planning and Construction Foundation. The Foundation was established in 1939 by A. P. Greensfelder, civic leader.
This is primarily an equestrian campground. There is a tie horse stall located behind the restroom that is lighted and will hold approximately 30 horses. A round pen is also available for horse turn out. Two trail heads are at opposite ends of the campground, with connectors to additional trails.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
6. St. Joe State Park Campground
Park Hills, Missouri20 Reviews•61 Photos•48 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
7. Randolph County State Recreation Area
Chester, Illinois7 Reviews•20 Photos•19 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
8. Dam West Spillway
Carlyle, Illinois10 Reviews•30 Photos•4 SavesOverview
Dam West Spillway is situated on the southern shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis, the area offers the peaceful retreat of a small town combined with the grandeur of Illinois' largest man-made lake.
Recreation
Dam West Spillway provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are located nearby, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake and Kaskaskia River offer year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There is plenty of open space for children to play and a multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short distance away at the dam.
Facilities
Dam West Spillway has one reservable group picnic shelter that can accommodate up to 75 people, as well as an accessible fishing pier and several amenities. It is within walking distance of a marina and boat storage facility and connected to the Dam West Day Use Area and Recreation Area, which offers a campground. The Carlyle Municipal Pool is a short drive away.
Natural Features
Created in 1967, the 26,000-acre lake is recognized as one of the nation's top ten inland sailing lakes and hosts several annual races and regattas. Carlyle Lake is home to an array of wildlife that can be seen throughout the year. Its waters and shores are a resting spot for migratory waterfowl and other birds. There are six established Watchable Wildlife Sites with viewing towers open to the public around the lake.
contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (618) 594-2484.
Nearby Attractions
The Carlyle Lake Visitor Center, located in the Dam West Recreation Area, has information available and nature exhibits on display, including a 215-gallon aquarium with native fish.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
$30 / night
9. Cherokee Landing
Bonne Terre, Missouri3 Reviews•6 Photos•18 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$25 - $36 / night
Recent Equestrian Reviews in Columbia
140 Reviews of 9 Columbia Campgrounds
- K
Kimberly L.
Scout
St. Francois State Park Campground
Peaceful
I stayed from 9/4/24-9/8/24. I stayed in the primitive campground. It was very quiet and peaceful. My site was close to the camp host and the shower house. Shower house was nice with 4 separate showers with locking doors. Water pressure was great and they were clean. There is a handicap shower unit as well that had a bench and hooks and a shelf to keep your things dry. The bathrooms were separate from the showers with 4 locking stalls. These too were kept clean and toilet paper was always full. Four sinks and mirrors and one outlet close to the sinks for hairdryer etc. The grounds were clean and grass was nicely cut. My campsite had a picnic table a campfire with grill grate and a light post to hang a lantern. The camp host were very friendly and drove around often on golf carts to make sure ppl were ok or needed anything. There was a place to fill your bottled water containers. The checkin office sold ice, campfire wood and a variety of ice creams, stickers and t shirts and sweatshirts. The park has trailheads to hike and an equestrian area. River access for swimming and fishing. There is a separate area with electrical sites and also handicap sites in the electrical and primitive campgrounds. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay and will be returning often.
- LLeslie M.
Guide
St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA
Do not stay here
The management and owner of this place do not care about their business or their customers. We had a terrible accident at this campground over the summer where a tree crushed and totaled our camper van, thankfully none of our family was harmed. KOA immediately wiped their hands of this telling us they have nothing to do with it and we needed to deal with our insurance. They did not even feel the need to refund our stay. I would NEVER stay here again and suggest if you do, hopefully you have really good insurance.
Helge Vandel J.
Traveler
Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground
Nice spot and great value
Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$.
- EErica E.Traveler
St. Francois State Park Campground
RV campsites
Awesome place to camp. Bummed the sites didn’t have their own water hookups. Staff is super kind. Quiet time is at 10pm and fellow campers are certain to enforce that rule but that’s unfortunate for those of us who still want to listen to music and sit by the fire. Overall great camping spot!
- SSara J.Scout
St. Francois State Park Campground
Nice & Clean
Very clean and well kept!
Jeremy C.Traveler
St. Joe State Park Campground
No dispersed camping
My girlfriend and I were going to backpack camp at St Joe. We learned that the dispersed campsites had been dismantled. That's a real bummer.
Jason F.
LegendSt. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA
A nice place to overnight
We stayed here for one night on our way home from Colorado. After checking in at the office, an employee escorted us to our site. Site A13 was a combination of mostly gravel and soft ground. The site was not level front to back and we had to build a sizable pyramid with our blocks to get the rig leveled out.
The pool area was very nice. It was great to be able to cook off after a long day of driving. We’d definitely stay here again.
Chris H.LegendSt. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA
Great place to stay if you’re going to St Louis
We actually didn’t hang out in the campground very much because we spent a lot of time in St. Louis. The campsite was very nice with lots of trees. It had a pool for the kids and some fun things for little ones to do there. The campsite is 30 minutes from downtown St. Louis, and a great place to stay if you’re looking to go check out the gateway arch or go to a Cardinals game.
- SSuzyTraveler
Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground
If I Could Leave Zero Stars I Would
I have stayed in hundreds of places and hiked many miles and have never experienced a tick infestation like I did at this park. I stopped counting at 20(!!!) pulled off my dogs(yes, they are on prevention meds), myself(yes, I was wearing DEET), and inside my camper in just two days. 0/10 do NOT recommend
- BBrittany F.Scout
Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground
Good and Simple
Good spot for a St.Louis stop. Sites are paved and relatively level. $25 for electric only but with a dump and fresh water fill up stations. Hot water showers in bathrooms. Reservations on the website are until 7pm day-of or first-come first-served need to arrive by 9pm before gate closes. Little tags on each site to say which is still available for that night. No pay station so if office is closed can pay in the a.m.
- NNatalie M.Guide
Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground
Huge Spaces- Very Private and Clean!
We booked this campground because we were spending time in St Louis. It only took about 35 minutes to get from here to downtown. The campground is close to grocery stores and lots of shopping! The sites themselves are very clean and well kept. Our site, 32, was huge and grassy! If you want to be close to the playground and bathrooms, this site was perfect.
Sarah J.Guide
Dam West Spillway
Two night stay
Had a lake front site with beachfront access. It was flat ground, everyone was so nice and it was so clean and the area was lovely. There were bathrooms with clean toilets locks and showers, laundry access, a marina, massive amounts of fish spots, several playgrounds, drivers were slow and courteous. Trip couldn’t have gone better!
Matthew H.Guide
Randolph County State Recreation Area
Best sites are walk in only
Best sites are first come first serve other half are reservable. 50amp water fill available with frost free. And dump station at front. $18 a night. Tight spots and harsh back up angles. Only 3 paved spots
WanderlustDu0ScoutHorseshoe Lake State Park Campground
Great private camping
The campground is relatively small but has great sites to camp. Very private and clean. 5 ⭐ in my opinion simply because of the overnight price and privacy. Not much to do if you have kids. If you're looking for quite camping trip this is a great park to camp.
- MMichael M.Guide
St. Francois State Park Campground
First Weekend of Fall
The campsites were very clean and sewer the other facilities there are two great trails in the park and there was staff on site doing educational programs that my kids really loved
- MM. F.Scout
Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground
Quiet & peaceful
Pretty good campground. When I was there it wasn't crowded, and so it was quiet. Would stay again.
Jason F.TravelerSt. Francois State Park Campground
A wonderful state park campground...
St. Francis is a beautiful Missouri state park, not to mention campground. It features many access points to its anchor, the BIg River, picnic areas, multiple pavilions and some fantastic trails. I grew up here, and I am biased toward it, but we camped many places, and it remains one of my favorites then, and now. The campground has more of a communal vibe, for better or worse, depending on your perspective. If privacy is your main concern, you may be better served looking elsewhere, but I have always enjoyed the friends I have made there, both young and old due to the proximity of the campsites and the many programs offered there by the Conservation Department.
Jan S.GuideSt. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA
KOA campground near Saint Louis
This is a KOA, so you know what to expect. Pull through, level sites, lots of shade, dog park, pool, and a creek are all here. Have been here before, will be back!
- Derek N.Guide
St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA
Decent campground
Other than the entire campground losing power Sunday morning and frying my coffee maker, it was a good stay.
Good sites, mature trees, and plenty for kids to do. The pool has a deep end, which seems pretty rare these days.
- kkathleenTraveler
St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA
Small sites- noisy- great for kids
This is a great place for kids and families traveling together. We are a retired couple with no children and found the sites to be too close together (very small sites) and the park was too noisy for us.
- Jan S.Guide
Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground
Lots of trees!
Beautiful state park and campground. Nice hiking. Lots of room between sites - fun camp weekend!
- TTravisScout
Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground
Horseshoe Lake - 5 Star
Horseshoe Lake is one of my most visited parks and most favorite park in the STL and surrounding areas. First off absolutely beautiful land and peace is easily achieved. Self service pay system makes it simple, easy, and fast. Camping can be reserved but no need. Just pick your spot go to the office building, and fill out the form, pay and slide in envelope and drop in box. Staff/ Security is super friendly and helpful with directing throughout the park. Also not nosy and mind their own unless you are just being that guy. Clean and well kept up with spots, water Spickets never far from your camp also nice cast iron fire pits. Good fishing, trails and memories waiting to be made.
8$ a night
D M.TravelerSt. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA
Close to St Louis, but won't ever return to this site
Good location that is right off I-44 and right next to Six Flags St. Louis. It's about 30 minutes to downtown.
Spots are level and there is decent space. Nice benches at each site, cable TV hookup, good water pressure (40 psi) and 30amp connection. There are 50 amp sites available.
KOA store, restroom and showers are nice and clean. The staff were also very friendly.
One cool activity is to visit the wolf sanctuary. It's very close by.
Only complaint is KOA allowed a U-Haul and car to park next to us. They had 4 dogs, unleashed and they were using the water spigot (no hose) to cool their dogs off, which wouldn't have been a problem if the spaces were bigger. They also kept entering our outdoor space and allowing their dogs to run all the way up to my rig. Very little was done to rectify the problem, even after a phone call and going up to the office. The three solutions were to have us relocate to another site, ask them if they would move, but it would be up to the U-Haul party to relocate or refund us if we decided to leave.
This was the first time staying at a KOA and it basically negated the positives. We will not be returning to this site and will most likely stay away from KOA all together.
- NNathan Y.Scout
St. Francois State Park Campground
Nice Spot giant trees
Nice Hiking on trails. Close access to river for fishing and kayaking. Not setup for biking except on roads. Large open field for kids to play. Crank brakes up when you get off the highway prior to starting down the hill. Dump station backs up for up to an hour on Sundays.
Sarah S.ScoutDr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground
Inclement Weather
I went camping at this place twice. Each time it rained all freaking day and got really cold at night. The first camping trip, I didn't tough it out. But the second camping trip I did tough it out until the second night, when it got cold. It didn't deter me and I plan to go camping again. At a different place though.
- Jan S.Guide
St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA
KOA in Eureka, MO
Nice, clean campground, level pull-through sites - ours had a paver-patio and grill, a lot of shade throughout, dog park, and a creek to explore. This was our 2nd time here. Close to Saint Louis, Six Flags, and hiking.
- Jessica B.Guide
Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground
Our 1st Trip In Our Camper!
We loved our stay at Babler, aside from the snow & wind - the park is great! Review below ⬇️
⛺️ S I T E R E V I E W ⛺️
📍 Dr. Edmund A. Babler State Park Wildwood, MO
💰 $12-$21/night
🗓 Feb 19-21, 2022
Site 48 ⚡️💧
🦮 Pets Welcome (on leash at all times)
➕Concrete Pads, Quiet, Close to Interstate 40, Paved Roads, Easy to Access, Gated Overnight with access code
➖Small/Close Sites, No Water in Off Season, Only Vault Toilets - No Showers in Off Season
📶 AT&T Service 4 out of 5
🚮 Dump Station located behind bathhouse. NO WATER during off season!
🚻AMENITIES •Playground •Hiking, Biking & Equestrian Trails •Wood & Ice •Interpretive Programs •Visitor Center •Special Use Area •Laundry, Flush Toilets & Showers ON SEASON ONLY!
🏕SITES Reservable 12 Months-FCFS in off season 72 Reservable 8 Accessible sites Basic - Electric Concrete Back In Lantern Hook, Picnic Table & Fire Ring
⏰ HOURS/DATES April - October 7:am - 9:pm Nov - March 7:am - 6:pm
🔺Park Office 8:30am - 4:pm M-F
🔺Visitor Center April - Oct 9:am - 4:30pm W - Sun Nov - March 9:am - 4:pm - Sat-Sun Dec - Feb CLOSED
Guide to Columbia
Horse camping in Illinois offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and equestrian-friendly amenities, making it a great choice for horse lovers looking to explore the state's natural beauty.
Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like spacious sites and access to trails
- The Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground features well-maintained sites with ample space for horses and easy access to nearby trails.
- At Greensfelder County Park, equestrian campers can enjoy sites that accommodate horse trailers and provide access to riding trails.
- Cherokee Landing offers a welcoming environment for horse campers, complete with facilities for both horses and riders.
Campers appreciate these amenities for horses
- Randolph County State Recreation Area provides electric hookups and sanitary dump stations, making it convenient for horse campers.
- The St. Francois State Park Campground features reservable sites with amenities that cater to both horses and their owners.
- Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground includes picnic tables and fire pits, enhancing the camping experience for equestrian visitors.
Equestrian campers like these nearby activities
- Horseback riding enthusiasts can explore the scenic trails at Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground, which are perfect for leisurely rides.
- Greensfelder County Park is known for its extensive trail system, ideal for both hiking and horseback riding.
- The St. Joe State Park Campground offers over 2000 acres of land for riding, making it a popular destination for equestrian campers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Columbia, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Columbia, IL is St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA with a 4.2-star rating from 30 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Columbia, IL?
TheDyrt.com has all 9 equestrian camping locations near Columbia, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.