Several horse-friendly campgrounds dot the prairies and forests near Glasford, Illinois. The area's sandy terrain provides a distinctive riding experience, with trails that vary from flat stretches to challenging hills. Winter camping remains popular at certain parks, with pit toilets typically available year-round even when main facilities close for the season.
What to do
Winter camping and hiking: Jubilee College State Park stays open during colder months. "I have camped at this park several times over the last few years. Especially like winter truck camping here. The pit toilets are always available in the winter, and I usually have the park to myself," notes Jonathan J.
Star gazing: Clear night skies away from city light pollution make this area ideal for astronomy. "Great campground to get out of the city. The viewing of stars is incredible," reports Joe M. about Jubilee College State Park.
Horseback riding on sandy terrain: The horse trails at Horseman's Park — Sand Ridge State Forest offer a workout for energetic horses. "If you have an energetic horse that you want to work hard, head into the yellow loop. The ranger said it tires everyone because it's steep hills of sand," writes Art S.
Biking through prairie landscapes: The network of trails at Comlara County Park provides good cycling routes. "Great biking trails and a couple of great geocaches," mentions Melissa B.
What campers like
Privacy options: Tent campers appreciate the secluded sites. "The rustic tent sites are located on the opposite side of the lake from the RV's in an area called White Oak. These sites are the way to go for privacy," says Scott N. about Comlara County Park.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds in the area maintain a peaceful environment. "My favorite thing about Jubilee is how quiet it is. The abundant forest, trails and the creek going through the park make this an ideal place to visit during spring and fall," shares Ranko K.
Affordable primitive camping: Primitive Campground — Jim Edgar Panther Creek offers budget-friendly options. "These are walk in sites ranging from 0.10 miles to 0.50 miles from the parking lot. Just $6 a night," notes Amanda C.
Clean facilities: Equestrian campgrounds typically maintain separate facilities for riders. "We camp at the equestrian loop, unlike some campgrounds we have our own shower house with three showers and three bathroom stalls," explains Alicia B. about Questing Hills Equestrian Campground.
What you should know
Water access varies: At horse campgrounds near Glasford, Illinois, water points are distributed throughout parks rather than at individual sites. "The sites are always maintained with hitching rails and electricity water is not at every site but through out the park," mentions Alicia B. about Questing Hills.
Shower facilities vary by season: "There is a shower house near loop B, which is not bad. Could be cleaner, but gets the job done," explains Brooke C. about Jubilee College State Park.
Wildlife encounters possible: "At about midnight there were at least 3 bobcats snarling and growling near our tents and then they circled our tents, sniffing them. My friends and I were stuck in our tents for an hour waiting for the bobcats to walk off into the woods," reports Ashley C. about her experience at Jubilee College State Park.
Primitive amenities: Deer Creek Campground offers minimal facilities but clean conditions. "Amenities are minimal, there are just port-a-potties for restrooms but they are very clean. There are not a lot of stores in the area (closest is about ~15 minutes) so pack all of your stuff," advises Kate M.
Tips for camping with families
Consider community-style camping areas: Some campgrounds feature open field layouts that foster social interaction. "The open field camping really lends itself to a community feel, some people have wonderful setups and especially at night, the more luxurious configurations attract the kiddos to checkout," explains Mike K. about Comlara County Park.
Look for family-friendly atmosphere: Many parks enforce quiet hours and maintain a peaceful environment. "VERY family oriented atmosphere - there was no nonsense loud drunkards in the evenings, relatively quiet and relaxing. This was a huge bonus to us, as we had younger kids and loud idiots would have freaked them out," reports Mike K.
Check for playground access: Jim Edgar Panther Creek - Family Campground offers facilities specifically for families. "Praire Lake Campground has 3 facilities on the lake. FAMILY camp for Rv, Tent and cabins," notes David F.
Consider shade availability: "This is a nice campground but the only downside is that it can be pretty windy. Nice sites with some that are right on the lake," explains J K. about Deer Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup types before booking: Electric options vary by campground. "Choice of full hookup or just electric on outer perimeters of each loop," notes Steve H. about Prairie Lake Campground at Jim Edgar Panther Creek.
Water fill strategies: "Site has electricity with water centrally located in the center of the loop. We needed a 100 ft fresh water hose to fill up. Luckily a friendly neighbor had one for us to borrow!" advises Jennifer K. about Prairie Lake Campground.
Convenience for highway travelers: Some parks make good overnight stops for those traveling through. "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," shares Sarah S. about Comlara County Park.
Consider site placement for privacy: "Sites could use more space as there is no privacy at all but that's the only thing that needs improvement," notes Kimberly L. about Comlara County Park.
