Randolph County State Recreation Area offers more than equestrian facilities for Illinois campers. The area contains multiple campground sections with varying levels of amenities. Camping loops feature both basic tent sites and electric hookups throughout the 1,101-acre property. The park's system of well-maintained trails accommodates hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians alike, with connections to fishing access points around the 65-acre lake.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The lakes at Dam West Spillway provide excellent shoreline access for anglers. "Ranger Review Primus LiTech Trek Kettle at Dam West Campground... Right next to the marina and with many sites right on the lake, you can't go wrong here," writes Annie C. The campground's proximity to Carlyle Lake, Illinois' largest lake, offers multiple fishing spots.
Trail exploration: Pyramid State Recreation Area contains extensive trail networks through diverse landscapes. "Great hiking trails and easy to follow," notes Leah P., while another camper shares, "We spent about 4 hours just taking every little trail we could and couldn't have been happier." The area contains multiple lakes for fishing and paddling access.
Horseback riding: Equestrian trails at Greensfelder County Park connect to advanced riding terrain. "There's tie stalls under a roof and a round pen mounting blocks... Trails are well marked maps available Awsome views," reports Alicia B. The park includes trail difficulty ratings and elevation changes for riders planning routes.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Horse campgrounds near Smithton, Illinois offer affordable rates for campers seeking value. At Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground, Helge Vandel J. appreciated "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$." Another camper confirms, "8$ a night."
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance stands out to visitors. "The bathroom and shower facilities are FABULOUS, and super clean. They smell like the laundry facilities as well, so great all around there," notes Heather S. at Dam West Spillway. Sites are regularly maintained with "big, spacious campsites with really pretty, big trees for lots of shade."
Peaceful atmosphere: Many equestrian campgrounds provide quiet settings despite their proximity to urban areas. Johnson Creek offers natural surroundings where Joel R. recalls, "We heard several owls calling in the trees around us when we went to bed, so we stayed up listening for awhile." Other campers note the "secluded" sites that allow for wildlife viewing.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular equestrian camping areas fill quickly during peak seasons. At Johnson Creek, "Camping is $10 a night - self check in," explains Stacia R., while facilities are minimal with "very basic pit toilets that were fairly new and clean." Weekends typically require advance bookings.
Water access varies: Not all campgrounds offer the same water amenities. At Pyramid State Recreation Area, "The campsites were close together but we visited in February so we were the only campers," notes Logan W., adding, "Pit toilets that were decent. The park office is a pretty long drive from the north end campground."
Terrain challenges: Some horse campgrounds have terrain limitations. "Getting around is a little tight for bigger rigs but still doable as long as you're careful," explains J K. about Randolph County State Recreation Area, while Matthew H. points out "Best sites are first come first serve other half are reservable. 50amp water fill available with frost free."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA offers family-focused amenities beyond horse facilities. "There is a pool, bike rentals, dog park, movie night, basketball court, and more," shares Crystal H., while another camper notes it's "Close to Six Flags."
Swimming options: Water recreation enhances family camping trips. Jacqueline F. recommends Dam West, noting "There are a couple of beach areas you can walk or ride a bike to," while Sarah J. enjoyed having "a lake front site with beachfront access. It was flat ground, everyone was so nice."
Wildlife viewing: Children enjoy animal spotting at many area campgrounds. Kent B. writes about Horseshoe Lake, "This is a great place when the geese are migrating thru," while locations like Johnson Creek offer night sounds where campers can listen to owls calling after dark.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: St. Francois State Park Campground provides electric sites for RVers seeking partial hookups. "Not a huge campground but, Its a really simple beautiful place to enjoy Missouri's rolling hills," writes one reviewer. The park offers 30-amp service at designated sites.
Site leveling: RV campers should prepare for varying site conditions. "Sites are gravel but well maintained. Sites are fairly close with most shaded," notes J K. about local campgrounds. Some locations require extra leveling blocks on sloped terrain.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have navigation challenges for larger rigs. Narrow roads with tight turns require careful driving, particularly when towing horse trailers. Matthew H. advises about one campground having "tight spots and harsh back up angles. Only 3 paved spots."
