Looking for the best horse camping near Ingleside? Equestrian camping is an adventurous and unique way to experience the city. These scenic and easy-to-reach Ingleside campsites are perfect for equestrian campers.
Located 10 miles northeast of Rockford, Rock Cut State Park is a 3,100-acre recreation area that encompasses two natural grasslands, a natural creek area, a nature preserve and 162-acre Pierce Lake. The area was designated a state park in 1957 as a way of preserving a local polititian’s favorite fishing hole. Prior to this, the park and wider area has a long history of Native American residence, including the Mascouten, the Winnegabo, and the Chippewa. With abundant water and preserved natural areas, the park now supports a thriving habitat for local birds, fish and wildlife. And with year-round camping and outdoor activities, you can experience the many seasonal sides the park has to offer.
The campground at Rock Cut provides 270 sites that can accommodate tent campers, as well as RV and trailer campers up to 40 feet. Back-in sites are mostly grassy and equipped with picnic tables, cooking grills and electrical hookups. The campground provides water faucets, restrooms, showers, and a dump station; the water and dump station are not available November through April. One of the park’s multiuse trails runs right through the campground, and provides access to the larger trail network. Most of the campground’s facilities are ADA accessible. Dogs are permitted in the park, but must remain leashed; alcohol is not permitted.
For recreating in temperate seasons, more than 40 miles of hiking, cycling and equestrian trails allow you to explore the park’s woodlands and prairies. These are ideal ways to observe some of the local birds, animals, and wildflowers. For fun on the water, paddle around in a canoe or kayak, take a dip at Olsen Beach, or go fishing for some of the lake’s largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, pike and walleye. Several picnic areas throughout the park are ideal for group or family gatherings. In the snowy season, many of the park’s trails are open to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with gear rentals available. For more family fun in the area, check out the nearby Volcano Falls Adventure Park.
For those who want to include an overnight stay in their visit to Rock Cut, the campgrounds provide electricity at the site, water hydrants at the beginning of each camping loop, sanitary dump stations, showers, toilets, a boat launch and playground equipment. There are 210 Class A Premium sites and 60 Class B/S Premium sites. There is also a primitive cabin (it has electricity, but does not have water or plumbing facilities).
From November - April, only electricity is available; there is no access to water or dump station.
Equestrian camping is restricted to a site on Hart Road, is only available on a first-come, first-served basis and the Ranger will collect the fee at your site in the evening.
Rock Cut is an alcohol-free park and campground, and this rule is strictly enforced.
$12 - $50 / night
Within Burnidge Forest Preserve is Paul Wolff Campground. Paul Wolff Campground contains 89 improved, vehicle camp sites with 50-amp electrical service, water access, parking pad and fire ring. Improved camp sites are available to vehicle campers or tent campers. Each improved site is capable of handling a 50-foot motorhome. There are also 5 equestrian camp sites, where you may camp with your horse(s); and 10 primitive, wooded sites for tent camping only, away from the main camping area. Primitive sites do not have electric service and are available, weather permitting. All camp sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis; reservations are not taken.
$12 - $35 / night
Fish Lake Beach is one of the largest, privately owned campgrounds in Illinois, with 580 seasonal sites occupying the majority of the 113-acre property along with 60 overnight campsites. Fish Lake Beach has been family owned and operated for over eight amazing decades. Our brief story in pictures and how we got started is just below. Fish Lake Beach has become a camping tradition or a home-away-from-home for generations of families. We take pleasure in providing a friendly and fun experience.
$43 - $73 / night
Welcome to Pinewoods Campground in the Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit, near Dousman, WI. This place is a solid choice if you're looking to camp from May to October. The campground is known for its peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained facilities.
One of the standout features here is the easy access to hiking trails. The Scuppernong Trailhead and the Ice Age Trail are right at your doorstep, making it a hiker's paradise. Some campers have even mentioned that their sites were directly connected to these trails, which is a huge plus if you love to hit the trails first thing in the morning.
The campground itself is pretty accommodating. You can bring your pets, but just a heads-up, Loop 1 is a quiet zone with no pets or loud noises allowed. This loop is perfect if you're looking for some tranquility. The sites are spacious and offer a good amount of privacy thanks to the greenery between them. Most sites are shaded, and many have trees suitable for hammocks.
Amenities include clean showers with hot water, drinking water, and firewood available for purchase from the camp hosts. Speaking of the hosts, they’re known for being friendly and keeping the place in top shape. There are also picnic tables and fire pits at each site, and you can even find a playground for the kids.
While the campground is generally quiet, you might hear some road noise, but nothing too disruptive. If you're into mountain biking, the nearby Emma Carlin and John Muir trails offer some excellent terrain.
Overall, Pinewoods Campground offers a great mix of convenience, natural beauty, and outdoor activities. Whether you're here for the hiking, the peace and quiet, or just a weekend getaway, this place has got you covered.
$18 - $30 / night
Kettle Moraine South Camping in the Kettle Moraine State Forest-Southern Unit is a solid spot for anyone looking to get away and enjoy some nature. This place has a bit of everything: electric hookups, showers, and even a camp store for those last-minute needs like ice and firewood.
The campsites are pretty spacious and offer a good amount of privacy thanks to the thick foliage. Whether you're in an RV, tent, or cabin, you'll find a spot that suits your needs. The campground is open year-round, so you can enjoy the changing seasons, each bringing its own unique beauty.
For those who love hiking, the trails here are a highlight. You can expect to see vibrant fall colors, interesting mushrooms, and a variety of native plants. If you're into birdwatching or just love a good scenic overlook, bring your binoculars. There's also a nice beach and a fishing pier if you want to spend some time by the water.
Families will appreciate the playground and the relatively clear camp areas, making it a good choice for young kids. Pets are allowed, but be mindful of the rules, especially around the dog beach.
Overall, Kettle Moraine South Camping offers a great mix of amenities and natural beauty, making it a worthwhile destination for a weekend getaway or a longer stay.
Big Rock Campground, part of Big Rock Forest Preserve, is located at 46W499 Granart Rd., Big Rock, IL. The campground is open seasonally, May - October 15, each year.
Camp sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not accepted. Payment is accepted via cash, check and credit card. Check-out is at 2 p.m., each day.
The campground contains 109 camp sites including 96 improved, vehicle campsites complete with 50-amp electrical service, water access, parking pads and fire rings, 9 primitive, tent-only sites without electric access, and four equestrian camp sites.
Camp fees are as follows:
Improved camp site (with electric and water): Kane County residents: $20/day Nonresidents: $35/day
Primitive camp site: Kane County residents: $12/day Nonresidents: $18/day
Equestrian camp site (with electric and water): Kane County residents: $15/day Nonresidents: $25/day
Dump station (not registered): Kane County residents: $15 Nonresidents: $15
Firewood (available at Campground office): Bundle: $5
Note: Outside firewood is allowed to be brought into the campground, however, all firewood must either be completely burned or left on site. No firewood will be allowed to be taken off site, due to the Emerald Ash Borer quarantine and restrictions by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
Big Rock Campground opened in the summer of 2013. This project was partially funded by an IDNR OSLAD and Recreational Trails Program (RTP) grant.
This campground/preserve includes a horseback riding area. Most horse trails are natural surface, mowed grass paths. Limestone screenings trails and asphalt bike trails are available in some of the preserves. These are multi-use trails shared with runners, bicyclists, dog walkers etc. Horse riders are required to stay on designated, forest preserve-maintained trails. Trail riding is not allowed in restricted natural areas, Illinois Nature Preserves, picnic areas or in farmed areas. To prevent trail damage during wet weather, trails may be temporarily closed. Individual forest preserves will post a sign at the entrance when horse trails are closed. Trails are currently OPEN for equestrian use at this campground/preserve.
$18 - $35 / night
$28 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Ingleside, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Ingleside, IL is Rock Cut State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 75 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Ingleside, IL?
TheDyrt.com has all 11 equestrian camping locations near Ingleside, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
