Moraine View State Recreational Area, located approximately 30 miles from Mahomet, offers horseback riding trails through woodland terrain in central Illinois. The park's multi-use trail system accommodates equestrians along with hikers throughout most of the year, though trail conditions vary seasonally. Winter riders should contact the park office for updated trail status as some routes close during wet or freezing conditions.
What to do
Lake activities: At Comlara County Park, visitors can rent boats and kayaks to explore Evergreen Lake. "You can rent boats and kayaks to take out on the lake during the day and grills throughout the park to have a bbq at night with friends," notes Sage C.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing spots exist around the lake areas, though some locations yield better results than others. "Much bigger lake than I first thought," explains Nathan E., who camped at Comlara County Park, though anglers should note the water quality concerns that Julie mentioned: "Lake has had a lot of algae over the last couple years."
Hiking options: Trail systems throughout the recreation areas provide marked routes for day hiking. "Has sections of niceness hiking and kayaking," says Sara C. about Moraine View. For those seeking more secluded trails, Comlara Park offers additional options with Scott N. noting: "The rustic tent sites are located on the opposite side of the lake from the RVs in an area called White Oak."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate lakeside camping locations. At Deer Creek Campground, "Near the back you can camp right alongside the river," according to Kate M., who also mentioned the "large, quiet campsites that are not too crowded."
Privacy options: Several campgrounds offer secluded spots away from busier areas. "Site 123 in particular is directly across from the bathroom, but has thick wooded areas to keep things private and well shaded...but with an open area for some suntanning," explains Mike K. about his experience at Comlara County Park.
Fall season views: Autumn provides particularly scenic camping opportunities in the Mahomet area. Jennifer M. who stayed at Moraine View State Recreational Area shares: "We got there in the dark and woke up to Fall colors, Canadian geese, trails, playgrounds."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campgrounds near Mahomet often have vastly different site types within the same facility. Ryan M. from Moraine View advises: "We stayed until the main part where you could reserve online through Reserve America. Would not recommend that area to anyone. Sites are right on top of each other in every direction."
Bathroom facilities vary: Restroom quality differs significantly between campgrounds. At Whitley Creek, Jana C. warns: "Raccoons are really brave and ate not afraid of humans. They know how to rip open a tent for food. Nothing is safe here." Meanwhile, Kate M. notes about Deer Creek: "Amenities are minimal, there are just port-a-potties for restrooms but they are very clean."
Fee structure: Several parks charge additional fees beyond camping costs. Marcie J. points out about Comlara County Park: "Good rates but the kicker is the $20.00 fee per boat/kayak to get on the lake plus the fee for the swimming area was a bit much for us."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature play areas for children. Comlara County Park has "a few playgrounds for the kids to stay busy as well as small marked trails to follow," according to Sage C., making it suitable for families with young children.
Community atmosphere: The open field camping at Comlara County Park creates a family-friendly environment. Mike K. explains: "The open field camping really lends itself to a community feel... VERY family oriented atmosphere - there was no nonsense loud drunkards in the evenings, relatively quiet and relaxing."
Beach cleanliness: Leslie from Deer Creek Campground appreciated that the "beach is so clean," making it a good option for families wanting swimming opportunities without water quality concerns that affect some other area lakes.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: RV campers should check site specifications before booking. Kathie M. reports about Comlara County Park: "Site 28 unlevel. Requires several lifts. Site is very large however. Does have nice shade."
Electric hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric connections but may lack other RV amenities. Debbie B. notes about Moraine View: "Only electric hook ups," which is important information for RVers expecting full hookups.
Paved access: Recent improvements at Moraine View State Recreational Area have enhanced RV access according to Brandi M.: "They have recently paved the roads which was nice. The main shower hpsue was nice and well maintained."
