Greensfelder County Park serves as an equestrian hub approximately 30 miles from Hartford, Illinois. The park offers two distinct camping sections with the horse camping area featuring electric hookups, standing stalls, and frost-free water access. During weekends, particularly Saturdays, the campground experiences high equestrian traffic as riders use it as a staging point for trail access. The park's trail system accommodates multiple user groups with specific considerations for each.
What to do
Trail exploration: Two trailheads connect directly to the camping area at Cuivre River State Park, where visitors can access multiple well-marked paths. "Cuivre river is about an hour outside St.Louis and offers a multitude of outdoor options from hiking, biking, boating and fishing. The trails are fantastic and have different levels for all," notes Chad K.
Horseback riding: The region offers excellent equestrian options with dedicated facilities. "Very well groomed trails and facilities spread out nicely. You could camp here for a weekend and stay busy," explains Tony M. about Cuivre River State Park. Horse-friendly trails accommodate various riding disciplines throughout the area.
Water activities: Several parks feature lakes for recreation near Hartford. At Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground, "Nice lake for fishing and boating," according to Annie C. The park prohibits swimming but permits boating and fishing for those seeking water recreation.
Wildlife observation: Seasonal wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the area. "This is a great place when the geese are migrating thru," shares Kent B. about Horseshoe Lake State Park. The diverse ecosystems support various wildlife habitats worth exploring.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer affordable camping within easy reach of Hartford. Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground provides "Peaceful tent camping on Walkers Island at $8 per day," according to ML W. Similarly, Travis notes, "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: Many campers appreciate the spacing at McCully Heritage Project, where Eric reports, "Super inexpensive for the space that you get. Free firewood. We have only stayed at the largest site as it has good fishing and a place for us to launch our paddleboards and kayaks. We easily fit a dozen people over the 4th of July."
Year-round facilities: Some campgrounds maintain all-season access. At Dam West Spillway, Jeanie H. notes that "The campsites have sewer and water on some sites, as well as other sites with electricity available. There are a lot of mature trees in the campground that provides plenty of shade in the summer."
Convenient city access: Many campgrounds offer proximity to urban areas while maintaining natural surroundings. "Close to Saint Louis, Six Flags, and hiking," explains Jan S. about St. Louis West Historic Route 66 KOA.
What you should know
Varying amenities between parks: Facilities differ significantly across the region. At St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, "Office Staff was super friendly. Went above and beyond for service. Separate handicap shower facilities are always a huge plus for us. (Hubby is blind.) Bathrooms were clean," reports Mary D.
Equestrian traffic patterns: When visiting horse-friendly campgrounds, expect increased activity on weekends. "Heavy equestrian park, it's not required (to have a horse) to stay here. A few piles of horses droppings but very well maintained," explains Matthew H. about Greensfelder County Park.
Seasonal availability: Some campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Dam West facilities include "The bathroom and shower facilities are FABULOUS, and super clean. They smell like the laundry facilities as well, so great all around there. Rangers are walking/driving around, and really friendly," according to heather S.
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, advance booking becomes essential at popular campgrounds. "Be advised to make reservations for weekends," cautions Chris B. about Dam West Spillway.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. Chris B. notes that Dam West Spillway is "very clean and safe for young children. The camp spots are spacious with some paved spots or gravel. All spots have electric hookups with a few full service. They have outdoor informational presentations about plants and animals geared toward children."
Educational opportunities: Look for campgrounds offering structured learning activities. At Dam West, "There are activities for children on the weekends," according to Jeanie H., making it ideal for family camping trips.
Kid-friendly spaces: Certain parks provide specialized facilities for younger visitors. At World Shooting and Recreational Complex, Christi L. reports, "Huge campground with a lake to boat, kayak or fish from the bank. Quiet but can be dry and hot in the summer. Fun place to gather with friends."
Safety considerations: Family-oriented campgrounds often feature additional security measures. At Horseshoe Lake, Annie C. appreciates that "the nice thing is the campground is staffed by rangers in the day, and at night they sometimes take a security swing through the campground."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers should note varying site sizes across parks. At Greensfelder County Park, Matthew H. advises, "Most sites are great for trailers 26' or less and 1 slide (sites 24-26 can fit a fifth wheel probably no bigger than 36-38 ft)" while "site 29 where we stayed can fit a 40' fifth wheel."
Electrical considerations: Power availability varies by location. Matthew H. continues, "2-20 amp plugs and 1-30amp plug" at most Greensfelder sites, though "site 29 only have 2-20 amp plugs no 30 didn't realized till we parked. Only this one doesn't have 30."
Dump station access: Not all parks offer on-site sanitary services. For Greensfelder County Park, Matthew H. notes "no dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away" for those needing this service.
Level site availability: RV campers should research site grading before arrival. Annie C. observes at Dam West Spillway that "Sites looked a bit more level on the inside of the loop than the lakeside sites, but I guess that's the price you pay for real estate."
