Best Equestrian Camping near Gorham, IL
Giant City State Park Campground and Johnson Creek Recreation Area provide some of the only horse-friendly camping options near Gorham, Illinois. Giant City offers 25 equestrian campsites located in a separate area from standard RV and tent camping sections. The equestrian sites accommodate horses with hitching posts, non-potable water spigots, and fire rings at most sites. Johnson Creek campers bringing horses will find single, double, and triple camping spots set up on three loops with horse hitches available. The campgrounds connect to horse trails within the Shawnee National Forest. While neither campground features dedicated horse corrals, both provide adequate facilities for overnight stays with horses.
Equestrian trails in the Shawnee National Forest connect to these campgrounds, offering miles of scenic riding opportunities. Giant City State Park contains what many consider the best horse trails in Illinois alongside Wolf Creek on Lake Shelbyville. Horse trailer parking is available at both campgrounds, though Giant City provides more spacious access with its recent campground upgrades. Horse owners should note that Johnson Creek offers more primitive accommodations with vault toilets and no showers, while Giant City provides cleaner facilities and amenities. Visitors bringing horses should check seasonal availability, as water access can be limited during certain times of year. Trail markers on some routes may be inconsistent, so riders should plan accordingly with maps before venturing out on longer excursions.
