Equestrian camping near Fairview Heights, Illinois offers access to forest preserves and state parks within a 40-mile radius. The region features rolling woodland terrain interspersed with prairie sections and lake access points where elevation changes range from 400-700 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide more moderate camping conditions with temperatures between 50-75°F.
What to do
Trail riding at varying skill levels: Trails at Greensfelder County Park accommodate beginners to advanced riders with marked routes. "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.
Bird watching during migrations: Spring and fall bring seasonal bird migrations to the area. At Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground, Kent B. shares, "This is a great place when the geese are migrating thru, I really hope to be back here some day!"
Water activities on nearby lakes: Several campgrounds provide lake access within short driving distance. "Nice lake for fishing and boating," mentions Annie C. about Horseshoe Lake, where camping costs remain affordable at $8 per night with basic amenities.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer low-cost camping with basic amenities. Travis notes about Horseshoe Lake State Park: "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."
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer secluded site layouts. WanderlustDu0 comments, "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."
Nature immersion close to urban areas: Despite proximity to St. Louis, campers find natural settings. According to Jen E. at Greensfelder County Park, the area is "Quieter despite the surroundings. Due to foliage, seems much more spacious and nature rich."
What you should know
Weekend popularity requires planning: Equestrian campgrounds fill quickly Friday through Sunday. At Dam West Spillway, Jacqueline F. notes, "We stayed the weekend here and it got really busy. When we tried to book online, all were taken but saw they had a few sites that were first come. Luckily, we got one of the last two."
Variable amenity levels: Facilities range from primitive to full-service. Wendy describes Horseshoe Lake as "Very primitive camping. Toilets only, but the campsites are spaced comfortably apart. The grounds are well maintained."
Weather considerations: Summer heat can be intense with high humidity. Spring and fall offer more comfortable temperatures. Water availability varies by location and season, with some sites requiring campers to bring supplemental water during dry periods.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and educational programs: Some parks offer family-focused amenities. At Randolph County State Recreation Area, Shirlee A. shares, "Stayed here a week with two toddlers and it was great! Easy walk to the lake with a gorgeous view, 2 different playgrounds walkable distance from campground."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes provide fishing access for all ages. Michael G. notes about Randolph County, "Great Lake to fish and plenty of trails to hike. Looks like the rv site can get booked up on weekends."
Wildlife viewing chances: Children can spot wildlife throughout the region. Sarah J. mentions at Dam West that they 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."
Tips from RVers
Site angles and turning radius: Some campgrounds have tight turns for larger vehicles. Matthew H. observes at Randolph County State Recreation Area: "Tight spots and harsh back up angles. Only 3 paved spots." He recommends being selective about site choice.
Electrical hookup limitations: Amperage varies between campgrounds. At World Shooting and Recreational Complex, Chip notes, "Lot's of full hookups. This was our first camp in our new to us travel trailer. Not many trees. Site has tons of camping sites so finding a spot should not be an issue."
Noise factors: Proximity to roads and train tracks affects some locations. Brian W. reports about St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA: "The bathroom down the hill was in dire need of a remodel when we stayed here in 2019 and be prepared for a lot of noise from the busy main road and passing trains in the near distance."
