Kankakee River State Park offers equestrian camping facilities about 30 miles southeast of Lemont, Illinois. The park spans nearly 4,000 acres along the Kankakee River with elevations ranging from 577 to 630 feet. Horse campgrounds near Lemont operate primarily during spring through fall seasons, with most equestrian trails closing during winter months due to muddy conditions.
What to do
Trail riding along the river: The multi-use trails at Kankakee River State Park provide scenic routes for equestrians. "The lush area with lots of privacy" makes for enjoyable rides, according to Jacqueline F., who adds, "We loved riding our bikes along the river and just being away from the hustle and bustle."
Explore Indian caves: Beyond horseback riding, the park offers unique geological features. Andrea F. notes, "There are Indian caves through the creek where you can still find arrowheads. Exploring the area is pretty cool and the park is quite expansive and impressive for this state."
Hiking with dogs: Most equestrian campgrounds allow pets on leashes, making them suitable for mixed activities. At Big Rock Campground, Marisa A. reports, "Lots of people (including me) bring their leashed dogs. The other campers have been polite and friendly."
What campers like
Private campsites: The separation between sites at equestrian-friendly parks provides welcome space. At Paul Wolff Campground, campers appreciate the layout. Art S. notes, "This campground is in a populated area but the nature preserve is big. We rarely saw traffic once here."
Wildlife viewing: The natural settings around equestrian campgrounds attract diverse wildlife. At Kankakee River State Park, campers regularly spot "butterflies, gold finches, hawks, deer, flocks of giant sandhill cranes, rabbits, ground squirrels, and of course actual squirrels," according to Marisa A., who camped there multiple times.
Clean facilities: Potowatomi Campground maintains high standards for its amenities. Linda N. reports, "The shower house was good. The team came out to clean up promptly. There are vault toilets, water, and trash cans in each loop."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: While some parks require advance booking, others operate first-come, first-served. Big Rock Campground uses a walk-up system, with Amanda K. noting, "Walkup only - no reservations taken. $35 a night is a bit steep."
Limited shade at some sites: Newer campgrounds may lack mature trees. David W. observed at Big Rock Forest Preserve, "This is a pretty new camp site, so the trees need some time to get big enough to provide some shade."
Water access considerations: Equestrian sites often have different water setups than standard camping. At Big Rock, campers mention "water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!" while Rodney D. adds, "The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)."
Tips for camping with families
Nature center activities: Kids enjoy educational opportunities at several parks. At Kankakee River State Park, Linda N. shares, "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!"
Lake recreation options: For families seeking water activities beyond horseback riding, Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort offers alternatives. Chloe N. recommends, "The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side. The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there."
Playgrounds and open spaces: Families appreciate areas for children to play. Shannon H. found at Potowatomi Campground that certain sites (specifically 16 & 17 on Osage loop) were "amazing for tents!! Open, tall trees for our tight rope and hammocks and shade. Grass for tents."
Tips from RVers
Hook-up locations: RVers should plan for water and electric connection locations at equestrian campgrounds. At Leisure Lake Resort, which accommodates both equestrians and standard campers, Karel M. appreciates the "quiet, family orientated, fishing lake, miniature golf, activities" available to all visitors.
Site selection for large rigs: Some equestrian-friendly campgrounds better accommodate larger setups. At Paul Wolff Campground, MalibuDave42 L. observes, "Very easy in and out, for any sized rig. Water and electrical at every site."
Seasonal considerations: Most equestrian campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Paul Wolff Campground runs "May 1 to October 31," while Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort operates "May 1 to October 15," requiring off-season alternative arrangements.
