Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground offers dedicated facilities for horseback riders 60 miles southwest of Dolton, Illinois. The campground sits along the Kankakee River in a 4,000-acre park with limestone bluffs and oak-hickory woodlands. Winter temperatures typically range from 15°F to 35°F, while summer brings 60°F to 85°F conditions with occasional thunderstorms from May through September.
What to do
Trail riding: Access crushed gravel paths suitable for horses throughout Kankakee River State Park. "The trail system at Kankakee River State Park connects riders to scenic routes along the river," notes visitor Andrea F. who appreciates that Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park "offers a lot of activities from primitive camping, RV parking, fishing, hiking, biking, backpacking, etc."
Explore historic sites: Discover centuries-old gravestones at the small cemetery near some campsites. "This site is near a small cemetery that has tombstones that are hundreds of years old," reports camper Phillip L. who stayed at Davis Creek within the park.
Nature viewing: Watch for wildlife while riding or hiking the trails. Visitors routinely spot "deer, rabbits, and various bird species while riding the trails." According to Jacqueline F., Leisure Lake Resort also offers opportunities for "fishing, miniature golf, activities" in a "quiet, family orientated" setting.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Equestrian campgrounds provide ample room for horse trailers and camping vehicles. At Big Rock Campground, Amanda K. notes: "Wide, open spaces for kids to ride bikes and explore wildflowers. Duck viewing. Quiet. Almost 100 improved sites."
Clean facilities: Despite the rustic setting, toilet facilities receive regular maintenance. Emma H. from Kankakee River State Park shares: "There are a few water pumps and vault toilets within walking distance, but we were pretty close to the shower house, which had stalls for toilets and showers. The showers were pretty great for a camp ground!"
Natural surroundings: The equestrian area offers a peaceful environment away from urban noise. Shannon H. found particular sites at Kankakee River to be ideal: "16&17 were amazing for tents!! Open, tall trees for our tight rope and hammocks and shade. Grass for tents. Grills were new. Bathrooms including vault were cleanest I've seen."
What you should know
Manure disposal regulations: Equestrian campsites have specific rules for proper manure management. Follow posted guidelines to maintain clean grounds.
First-come, first-served: The equestrian campground does not accept reservations. Plan to arrive early, especially during peak summer weekends.
Water access limitations: While drinking water is available, hookups may be distant from sites. At Paul Wolff Campground, David W. notes: "There is one very clean flush toilet building but no showers. They don't advertise showers, but this is the newest and nicest campsite I have seen without showers."
Supply considerations: Vault toilets may occasionally run low on supplies. "The shower house was good. We went during July 4th so it was busy (the toilet paper was completely out when I stopped by) but the team came out to clean up promptly," explains Linda N. from Potowatomi Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Nature center activities: Schedule time at the main office/nature center for kid-friendly experiences. Linda N. reports: "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!"
River access points: Find safe, shallow areas for children to play under supervision. "The river was nice to visit and we were able to take the kids to some knee deep water to play (swimming is NOT allowed in the river)," notes Linda N.
Weather preparations: Potowatomi Campground playgrounds have limited shade coverage. Linda N. cautions: "Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had."
Quiet hour enforcement: Some campgrounds may have inconsistent quiet hour policies. Ray S. mentions: "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."
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Electric services vary between campgrounds near Dolton. For equestrian camping, prepare for more limited hookup options compared to standard RV sites.
Site selection strategy: Choose peripheral sites for more privacy and shade. At Big Rock, Jeff G. advises: "The spaces are pretty level. The trees will be terrific in about 20 years... I saw where some campers hooked about 150' of hose to spigots behind the loops to run to their campers."
Hose extensions needed: Water sources may be positioned far from parking pads. Amanda K. recommends: "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!"
Weather considerations: Limited tree coverage at some campgrounds means little protection from sun or storms. Marisa A. observed at Big Rock: "Not worth the drive here to tent camp if you live outside of Kane county. Even their 9 hike-in primitive sites hugging the treeline lack privacy. Yes, all the sites are very flat."
Ranger
