Equestrian camping near Plainfield, Illinois offers dedicated facilities within a 35-mile radius. The topography features gentle hills and wooded terrain along with prairie landscapes that create varied riding conditions. Trail systems connect to water features including the Kankakee River and several small lakes, with seasonal conditions affecting accessibility during spring thaw and after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Trail riding along waterways: Kankakee River State Park provides riding paths along the river with varied terrain. One visitor noted, "We took advantage of the bike path/hike path which is long and wide and very nice," while another mentioned that "There are Indian caves through the creek where you can still find arrowheads."
Fishing between rides: Many equestrian areas include access to fishing spots where riders can take breaks. At Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort, a camper observed, "The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side," and another mentioned, "The lakefront tent sites are spacious and you can fish right from your site!"
Wildlife observation: Horse trails often access secluded areas with wildlife viewing opportunities. As one visitor to Matthiessen State Park described, "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."
What campers like
Spacious sites for trailers: Paul Wolff Campground receives praise for its layout. A visitor shared, "All the sites have paved pads," while another noted, "The sites are clean and very well maintained. The trail system is great for walking the dogs."
Secluded camping experience: Several equestrian sites offer privacy not found at standard campgrounds. One camper at Matthiessen Equestrian Campground reported, "This CG had no one there on the 3 occasions we visited – which was fine for us, but some might find the solitude here a bit daunting."
Natural setting variety: Big Rock Campground combines open spaces with natural features. A reviewer described it as having "Lovely grasslands, ponds, hiking trails," and another mentioned it's "Surrounded by trees and open prairie. Often used by local youth groups for hiking and scouting."
What you should know
Registration procedures: Most equestrian campgrounds have specific check-in protocols. At Matthiessen State Park, "There's a registration envelope that you'll pick up when you arrive, where you'll simply need to fill this out with your name, # of days that you are planning to stay and then deposit the envelope in the drop-off kiosk."
Limited amenities: Facilities at horse camps are typically basic. A camper at Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground noted, "The facilities are basic-to-bad, so lower your expectations and bring your own sanitary wipes," while another mentioned, "This campground was reserved exclusively for those packing their four-legged, mane-baring, buggy-pulling horse friends."
Seasonal considerations: Trail conditions vary significantly by season. As one visitor reported, "The grounds themselves could benefit from some TLC as there's a lot of downed branches," indicating spring maintenance may be needed after winter.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some locations offer family amenities alongside equestrian facilities. At Kankakee River State Park, a parent shared, "We were able to take the kids to some knee deep water to play," and "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!"
Playground access: Several parks maintain play areas for children. One visitor noted, "Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had," suggesting morning or evening use during summer.
Safety considerations: Leisure Lake Resort offers monitored recreational areas. A camper described it as "Quiet, family orientated, fishing lake, miniature golf, activities," making it suitable for mixed family groups with varying interests.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Water and electric access points may require planning. At Big Rock Campground, a visitor warned, "The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)," while another noted, "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!"
Level sites: RV campers appreciate the terrain preparation at several locations. One reviewer at Paul Wolff Campground mentioned, "The sites are well kept. Easy to get in and out. Lots are nice," and another observed, "Sites seem to be mostly level."
