Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground offers dedicated facilities for horseback riders. Located on the east side of the park with a separate entrance from the main park areas, this horse-only camping area provides first-come, first-served sites with basic vault toilets and drinking water. The campground connects directly to bridle paths that wind through the park's distinctive sandstone formations, canyons, and forested areas. Registration is handled through an on-site envelope system rather than reservations.
What to do
Trail riding for equestrians: Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground connects to approximately 5 miles of dedicated bridle paths across varied terrain. "For those that bring their noble steed to this campground, you'll have it basically all to yourself," notes camper Stuart K., who adds that the limestone-stained trails offer "a really good cross-section of prairie land that meets densely-packed forests."
Kayaking nearby waters: Comlara County Park offers water recreation options on Evergreen Lake. "The dock was just a short walk away. It's very cool that the folks at Comlara put that dock there for the tent campers to use," reports Scott N., who enjoyed launching his kayak. Water access fees apply, with boat/kayak access costing $20 per watercraft.
Hiking natural formations: Nearby state parks feature networks of marked trails through unique geological features. "The trails are well maintained and most are used on regular basis," notes Brooke C. about Jubilee College State Park, which offers hiking paths across its nearly 2,000 acres of woods and prairie.
What campers like
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes and ponds in the region provide good fishing spots for campers. At Jubilee College State Park, campers appreciate "a small fishing pond off the road a bit," according to Jonathan J., who visits throughout the year, including for winter truck camping when "the pit toilets are always available in the winter."
Quiet, spacious sites: Moraine View State Recreational Area offers camping with good separation between sites in some areas. Camper Brandi M. reports, "I was on site P16 which offers a lake view. They have recently paved the roads which was nice. The main shower house was nice and well maintained."
Star-gazing conditions: The rural setting around Gridley provides excellent night sky visibility. "The viewing of stars is incredible," notes Joe M. about his experience at Jubilee College State Park, describing it as a "quiet and peaceful" place to "get out of the city" and experience natural darkness.
What you should know
Seasonal closures and conditions: Some facilities have limited operations outside peak season. At Moraine View, "The swimming beach is apparently only open on the weekends but there are plenty of places to get in the water so it wasn't a big deal," reports Brandi M., who paid "$20 a night" for her three-night stay.
Wildlife awareness: Local campers report encounters with wildlife in wooded areas. Ashley C. recounts at Jubilee College: "This camping spot was very quiet and secluded, just like I wanted, but at about midnight there were at least 3 bobcats snarling and growling near our tents and then they circled our tents, sniffing them."
Varied terrain for horses: Deer Creek Campground offers sites along the river with opportunities for wading. "Large, quiet campsites that are not too crowded. Near the back you can camp right alongside the river," notes Kate M., adding that "amenities are minimal" but the sites remain "relaxing."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks offer dedicated play areas for children. At Comlara County Park, Sage C. notes there are "a few playgrounds for the kids to stay busy as well as small marked trails to follow," making it suitable for families with younger children.
Swimming beaches: Seasonal swimming areas provide cooling options during summer months. Leslie mentions that at Deer Creek Campground, the "beach is so clean" and calls it a "wonderful place for family camping" that's "very enjoyable and relaxing."
Budget-friendly activities: American Legion Freedom Farm Campground offers an affordable base from which families can explore the region. Several nearby state parks provide low-cost day-use activities including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing without additional entrance fees.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At Comlara County Park, Mike K. advises looking at site layouts carefully: "Site 123 in particular is directly across from the bathroom, but has thick wooded areas to keep things private and well shaded... with an open area for some suntanning." He notes that the "layout is fairly straightforward" with "many spots for RV/campers."
Electric hookup availability: Most equestrian campgrounds near Gridley, Illinois offer limited services. Moraine View provides electric sites but no water hookups at individual sites. Jubilee College State Park offers electric and sewer according to park information, though one camper warns that "all had some gravel that had obviously not been maintained in several years."
Highway access convenience: Some campgrounds provide easy stopover locations for travelers. Sarah S. found Comlara County Park particularly useful: "We were looking for a quick place to spend the night, like a Walmart or gas station when we found this gem. It is only a few miles off the highway, making it super convenient for a quick overnight stop."
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