Chain O' Lakes State Park provides dedicated horseback riding trails spread throughout its 6,500-acre property north of Libertyville, Illinois. Equestrian camping sites in the Turner Lake South loop accommodate riders with ample space for horse trailers. These sites typically rent for $12-$25 per night depending on electrical hookups. Trail terrain varies from flat prairie paths to gentle rolling hills that follow the natural kettle moraine topography formed during the last ice age.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Explore multiple connected lakes from the Chain O' Lakes launch points. According to a visitor at Fox Den Campground, "We chose Chain O Lakes because we enjoy kayaking and with 7 lakes connected by small tributaries this fit the bill... Rangers were helpful and delivered firewood to our site daily."
Horseback riding: Access over 10 miles of equestrian trails through prairie and woodland terrain. The Turner Lake South loop connects directly to these trails. One camper at Turner Lake South noted, "There is so much to do at this campground. Horseback riding, archery, hiking, boating, fishing. There is also a park for the kids in several areas."
Fishing opportunities: Cast from designated piers or shorelines. A visitor to Turner Lake South mentioned, "The lake was very nice... The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by."
Hiking accessible trails: Walk through diverse ecosystems on marked paths. A camper at Paul Wolff Campground shared a similar experience at their nearby location: "The highlight of our experience is the hiking. There are miles of trails. On one hike we were on paved, sifted gravel, grass and single trek trails."
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: Sites can fit multiple tents alongside horse equipment. A camper at Turner Lake South noted, "These campsites are as low as $12/night!! One of my favorite spots to test new gear. Family friendly. There's some small trails around as well that are beginner."
Natural scenery: The region offers prairie, woodland, and lake views. A visitor to Fox Den observed, "This is our favorite place to camp. It feels like you are in the middle of nowhere, but it is close to everything. It has lots of groomed and ungroomed walking trails."
Wildlife viewing: Observe native species in natural habitats. One kayaker at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort reported, "The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds maintain quiet hours for peaceful evenings. As a camper at Fox Den mentioned, "It allows dogs and the rangers keep the site relatively quiet, especially at night."
What you should know
Gate closing hours: The park gates close promptly at 10 PM with tire shredders preventing late entry. A camper at Turner Lake South warned, "The gates close at 10:PM and there are tire shredders, you can leave but you can't get back in… unless you want to walk 2+ miles in the dark."
Bathroom facilities vary: Quality and cleanliness fluctuates between campgrounds and loops. One visitor noted, "The bathrooms/showers are always clean and have hot water. The only downfall that I can see is that they are not consistent with cleaning the outhouses."
Water hookup locations: At some campgrounds, water sources may be far from individual sites. A camper at Big Rock Campground advised, "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!"
Seasonal pest considerations: Prepare for mosquitoes during summer months. A camper at Fish Lake Beach mentioned, "The mosquitos were pretty vicious... a couple of the regulars said it was the worst they'd been in years."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Plan for fishing, beach time, and organized events. A visitor to Fish Lake Beach shared, "We stayed in one of the tent sites across the road from the lakefront sites... The camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids!"
Site selection strategy: Choose sites with natural barriers for privacy and safety. A camper at Fox Den recommended, "Sites in Honeysuckle have electric posts too far from parking pad. Fox Den also has more space between sites, more level pads and each site is tucked away with trees."
Educational opportunities: Look for ranger programs and nature activities. A visitor to Kettle Moraine State Forest recommended, "Pick Up the activity book for kids it is a great adventure lots to do at the lake!!!"
Multi-generational access: Consider proximity to bathrooms for younger and older family members. A Fox Den camper noted, "It has the electrical hookups that we need and has a bath house that is close to where you camp (hundreds of feet versus getting into a car and driving to it)."
Tips from RVers
Level site availability: Most equestrian sites can accommodate larger rigs. A camper at Fish Lake Beach noted, "Very friendly staff and people. Great accommodations. Spots are ok size. Pretty level."
Hookup arrangements: Plan for electrical connections but limited water hookups at sites. A visitor to Big Rock Campground advised, "As someone who normally camps in state parks with only electricity hookups, this site was a welcome treat... Water + 50amp hookups."
Dump station access: Factor in location and ease of access for service areas. A Fox Den camper mentioned, "Water was at central locations and a dump is on the way out."
Reservation timing: Book well in advance for equestrian sites during peak season. One camper observed, "The only big minus is the full hook ups fill up fast no spur of the moment camping unless it is early or late in the season."
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