Horse campgrounds near Joliet, Illinois feature flat, open terrain within preserved forest environments at elevations averaging 600 feet. The area receives 39 inches of annual rainfall, with most equestrian camping areas remaining open from April through October. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F, requiring adequate water supplies for horses.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Most equestrian sites near Joliet connect directly to trail systems. At Kankakee River State Park, riders can access routes that follow the river corridor with trails suitable for various skill levels. According to one visitor, "This campground was easy to access, clean, and had a very easy going vibe. The camp hosts were really fantastic and made it feel like family."
Fishing access: Some campgrounds offer fishing opportunities near horse camping areas. The Kankakee River provides access points for anglers, though swimming isn't permitted. One camper noted, "The river was nice to visit and we were able to take the kids to some knee deep water to play (swimming is NOT allowed in the river)."
Nature observation: Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the preserves. At Matthiessen State Park, equestrian trails pass through diverse habitats. A visitor shared, "There's a lot to explore here at Matthiessen SP...from the many valleys you will surprisingly encounter and the small trickling waterfalls you will stumble across to the non-stop trails, canyons, bridges, stairways, dams and dells."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Big Rock Campground provides large sites that accommodate horse trailers and camping equipment. One camper reported, "Nice campground with big, level sites. Even though they don't take reservations, there is plenty of space and availability." Another mentioned, "The spaces are pretty level. The trees will be terrific in about 20 years."
Clean facilities: Many equestrian campsites maintain well-kept restroom facilities. A reviewer at Paul Wolff Campground stated, "The vault toilets are clean but smell like vault toilets at 95 degrees. There is one very clean flush toilet building but no showers."
First-come camping options: Several horse camping areas operate without reservations. A camper at Matthiessen noted, "If you do plan on camping here alongside your horses, you will want to note that there is no reservation system and that all sites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis."
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have reported water issues. At Leisure Lake Resort, a camper mentioned, "Water quality has been very bad. On one occasion, our pet had stomach issues after drinking tap water, which was concerning. The water is so unclean that our shower develops yellow stains within a day."
Limited shade at some locations: Several campgrounds feature open sites with minimal tree cover. One Big Rock visitor reported, "This is a pretty new camp site, so the trees need some time to get big enough to provide some shade."
Alcohol restrictions: Many state park facilities prohibit alcohol consumption. Kankakee River State Park enforces this policy strictly, while other private campgrounds may allow it.
Horse-only requirements: Some campgrounds strictly enforce equestrian-only access. At Matthiessen, one camper reported, "Got kicked out cause I didn't have a horse. Even though it was completely empty. Gave me my $8 back though."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children, though weather may impact usage. A Kankakee River State Park visitor noted, "Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had."
Educational opportunities: Potowatomi Campground offers nature programs. As one visitor shared, "We did have a really awesome time at the main office/nature center, where my kiddos got to feed and hold a variety of reptiles!"
Tent site selection: For families using tents, choosing the right site matters. At Kankakee River State Park's Osage loop, a camper advised, "Two were very small (14&15), and little grass for tent setup, fine for RV or trailer campers... 16&17 were amazing for tents!! Open, tall trees for our tight rope and hammocks and shade. Grass for tents."
Animal encounters: Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the preserves. At Matthiessen, "Occasionally, if you are especially quiet, you'll come across no shortage of white-tailed deer or wild turkeys foraging through the crabapple and plum trees."
Tips from RVers
Hookup distances: Water connections at some campgrounds require extra equipment. At Big Rock, a reviewer cautioned, "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!"
Site privacy variations: RV sites offer different levels of seclusion depending on location. A Paul Wolff camper noted, "Lots of big rigs who seem to be staying for quite a while... Sites are well spaced. Full trees around the perimeter, but not a lot for shade over the campsites. Water and electrical at every site."
Fee differences: Non-residents may pay higher fees at county facilities. One Paul Wolff visitor explained, "Prices are a great deal if you live in Kane county but still worth the trip if you live in another county."
