Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground is situated along the Kankakee River, which stretches 59 miles through Illinois. The park's terrain features limestone bluffs and outcroppings dating back 300 million years to the Silurian period. Summer temperatures average 85°F with moderate humidity, making it ideal for overnight equestrian camping from May through October.
What to do
Trail riding experiences: At Paul Wolff Campground, riders can explore gentle hills with seasonal color changes. "I've seen lots of turkey and other small game so great for Scout skills and badges," notes Mike D., who appreciates the "scenic hiking for being close to town."
Kayaking opportunities: Visitors to Turner Lake South enjoy paddling through calm waters. "I love to kayak through here because I don't need to paddle through the river unless I'm feeling competitive. I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far," shares Cora M.
Fishing access: The equestrian campgrounds near Elmhurst provide good fishing spots along the Kankakee River. At Potowatomi Campground, campers find various fishing locations. "There is a lake for fishing and some trails," mentions Tara M., though she notes that at Kankakee River "the river is fast, tried to fish."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Fox Den Campground, campers appreciate the natural separation between sites. "Fox den at Chain-o-Lakes state park provides a more secluded camping experience than Honeysuckle or the 2 tent camping areas. Pads are pretty level, and each site has some semblance of privacy from other campers (our site was protected on 3 sides by some fairly dens foliage and trees)," reports Ian C.
Clean facilities: Potowatomi Campground receives praise for maintenance. "Bathrooms inclu vault were cleanest I've seen. Bike path/hike path is long and wide and very nice," states Shannon H. Another camper, Linda N., confirms: "The shower house was good. We went during July 4th so it was busy but the team came out to clean up promptly."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Horse camping facilities near Elmhurst include options for families. At Turner Lake South, one camper notes the campground is "Family friendly. There's some small trails around as well that are beginner." Sites provide space for both horses and family activities throughout the area.
What you should know
Reservation policies: Unlike Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground's first-come system, some campgrounds allow advance booking. Big Rock Campground operates differently: "Even though they don't take reservations, there is plenty of space and availability," says Melissa C., adding that it has "big, level sites."
Weather considerations: Summer camping requires preparation for heat. Emma H. reports from Potowatomi Campground: "It rained a ton during our trip so we didn't explore much, but would definitely recommend for a simple camping trip where you want flushable toilets, showers, and some electricity."
Site selection tips: Specific sites work better for different equipment types. At Potowatomi, Shannon H. advises: "We had four sites on Osage loop for tent camping. Two were very small (14&15), and little grass for tent setup, fine for RV or trailer campers... 16&17 were amazing for tents!! Open, tall trees for our tight rope and hammocks and shade."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Facilities for children vary across horseback riding campgrounds near Elmhurst. At Potowatomi Campground, Linda N. observes: "Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had. 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!"
Fishing with kids: At Turner Lake South, Julia B. suggests: "The lake was very nice. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy. The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by."
Budget-friendly options: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort offers affordable activities. "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," shares Leo V., who describes it as "Child Friendly."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers should note varying site sizes. At Big Rock, Amanda K. reports: "Sites seem to be mostly level. Wide, open spaces for kids to ride bikes and explore wildflowers... Sites are wide, open spaces for kids to ride bikes and explore wildflowers."
Hookup locations: Water connections require planning at several campgrounds. Art S. notes that at Fox Den, "The campsites are a nice size and have electric hookups. Water was at central locations and a dump is on the way out." Similarly, at Big Rock Campground, Rodney D. advises: "The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)."
Level parking areas: Equestrian campgrounds near Chicago require level spots for horse trailers. MalibuDave42 L. comments about Paul Wolff: "A very nice, well manicured campground. Though a commercial-style, it does not feel like it. 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."
Legend
