Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area occupies 1,980 acres near Greenville, Illinois, with year-round operations for diverse outdoor activities. The equestrian area sits within a larger recreation complex featuring lakeside camping, fishing opportunities, and interconnected trail systems. Winter months see fewer visitors but maintained access for cold-weather recreational activities.
What to do
Fishing access: Sam Dale Lake State Conservation Area offers productive fishing spots right from the campground. "Clean campground right on the lake," notes Elmer L., making it convenient for anglers to access the water throughout their stay.
Trail riding: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground provides excellent terrain for horseback riding enthusiasts. "Peaceful tent camping on Walkers Island at $8 per day," reports ML W., with riders appreciating the affordable access to maintained paths.
Swimming: Dam West Spillway features lakeside recreation with beach access from campsites. "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," reports Sarah J., highlighting the convenient swimming options.
Boating: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground provides lake access for various watercraft. "The lake is ok but no swimming, boating and fishing only," explains Chrissy W., clarifying the permitted water activities for visitors.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Horse campgrounds near Greenville, Illinois, offer economical camping experiences. "The park is reasonable priced, beautiful surrounding and friendly staff. Would definitely come again," writes Jareth C. about Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. "Most of the sites are large and a good distance from the next one. Shower house is alright," notes Jennifer G., highlighting the spacious layout of campsites.
Privacy between sites: Dam West Spillway provides well-spaced camping areas. "Big, spacious campsites with really pretty, big trees for lots of shade," explains heather S., noting the separation between neighboring campers.
Equestrian accommodations: Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area offers specialized sites for horse owners. The park provides "water and toilets" with "very wide nicely maintained" trails according to Alicia B., though she notes "no electricity in equestrian sites."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many equestrian camping facilities near Greenville require advance bookings during peak season. "We went for a weekend. The camp site we chose was very clean and had water and electric hook ups," reports Samantha H. about her stay at Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area.
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be spotty throughout the region's state parks and recreation areas. "There is very little cell service so it is a great place to be unplugged and enjoy time with friends and family!" explains Lori W. about Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area.
Site conditions: Sam Dale Lake State Conservation Area offers variable site quality depending on location. "We ended up with Site 8. It was literally on a culvert pipe on top of the ditch," reports Nichole M., suggesting visitors research specific site numbers before booking.
Water access points: Horse camping areas typically have designated water sources for animals. "Campground was quiet and well kept. Foliage was well trimmed," notes Rach W. about Sam Dale Lake State Conservation Area's maintained grounds.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature recreational equipment for children. Dam West Spillway includes "outdoor informational presentations about plants and animals geared toward children. Paved bike paths with views of the lake," according to Chris B.
Beach activities: Dam West Spillway offers swimming opportunities for families with children. "There are a couple of beach areas you can walk or ride a bike to," explains Jacqueline F., noting the accessible water recreation options.
Safety considerations: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground provides secure camping environments. "Staff/Security is super friendly and helpful with directing throughout the park. Also not nosy and mind their own unless you are just being that guy," reports Travis.
Family-friendly trails: Equine camping sites near Greenville often connect to trail systems suitable for riders of various experience levels. "Lots to do and see. They have a bridge and trail that connect campsite to marina. Looove it," shares Stacy B. about Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Equestrian camping facilities around Greenville vary in electrical service options. "It clearly states electric only. Which was no problem. They had a water hookup that you could pull up to for more water if needed. Dump station right outside the campground," explains Jonathon B. about Sam Dale Lake State Conservation Area.
Site leveling: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground offers relatively flat camping areas for RVs. "The campground is relatively small but has great sites to camp. Very private and clean," notes WanderlustDu0 about the setup.
RV size considerations: Horse camping areas may have limitations for larger vehicles. "Site 35 was perfectly level for the Class C (cruise America rental with no levelers," shares Jonathon B. about his experience at Sam Dale Lake State Conservation Area.
