Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground accommodates horse owners approximately 45 miles south of Maywood, Illinois. Located in Bourbonnais, the campground sits along the Kankakee River where limestone outcroppings and deep ravines characterize the terrain. Ground conditions remain firm year-round except after significant rainfall, when some bridle paths become temporarily muddy or impassable.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Riders at Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground can explore the various terrain features along the river. The park provides different outdoor recreation options beyond horseback riding, including "fishing and some trails" for hikers, as noted by visitors to nearby areas of the park.
Boat rentals and water activities: Head to Chain O' Lakes State Park when staying near Maywood for diverse water recreation opportunities. A camper observed, "The concessions/camp store is located near the boat docks and is easily walked or driven to with decent selection of foods, gear, and fishing items."
Explore scenic trails: The network of trails provides varied environments for day trips on horseback. As one visitor to Chain O'Lakes mentioned, "There is a boat launch with rentals and a bunch of hiking trails closer to the entrance. However, if you go just past the entrance - pass by the playground - you will come to a stop sign. Keep going straight even though it will look like you are just walking into trees. A trail is there that was a nice place to explore."
What campers like
Convenient camping location: Equestrian camping near Maywood provides straightforward access to riding trails directly from campsites. Visitors to campgrounds in the region appreciate the balance between seclusion and proximity, with one camper noting, "This feels like you are in the middle of nowhere, but it is close to everything."
Practical amenities: The facilities at Potowatomi Campground meet the needs of riders and their horses. A recent visitor commented, "Bathrooms inclu vault were cleanest I've seen. Bike path/hike path is long and wide and very nice."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many trails offer chances to observe local wildlife during rides. One camper at Turner Lake South Campground stated, "We canoe, and both times we stayed there it was October, so I can't tell you how crowded, but the vast number of picnic areas must be there for a reason."
What you should know
Ground conditions information: The equestrian campground typically remains accessible throughout most of the year, though conditions vary seasonally. One visitor to Turner Lake South Campground noted the importance of timing, writing, "Chain O Lakes in general get pretty busy on the water, but the state park is off the main part of the water system, so even a little fishingboat can be fun without the large speedboat wakes here."
Required equipment and documentation: Horse owners must bring portable corrals or high-line equipment for securing animals overnight. Management requires proof of negative Coggins test upon check-in. As with other facilities, campers need to prepare for different weather conditions.
Site maintenance expectations: Campers must remove manure from campsites and common areas before departure. Similar to what one visitor observed at another location: "The campground was very clean and the fire pit and table were in good condition. Our site was very shaded and quiet at night."
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: Families with both children and horses should establish clear rules about approaching animals. At the Big Rock Campground, safety is also emphasized as one visitor noted, "Nice clean place. Activities for the kids and adults."
Site selection strategy: Select sites based on your trailer configuration and horse handling needs. For families visiting campgrounds in this region, one camper advised, "Our site was perfect with trees to hang a hammock on and for the kids to run around."
Evening activities planning: After trail rides, organize quiet evening activities at your campsite, as horses need adequate rest. Similar to how campers at nearby sites enjoy the evening atmosphere: "Stars were out. Had rain Saturday but we all just hang out and manage just fine."
Tips from RVers
Trailer parking considerations: The equestrian campground accommodates various trailer sizes with adequate turnaround space. When pulling a trailer to Paul Wolff Campground, one visitor shared, "Very easy in and out, for any sized rig. Water and electrical at every site."
Hookup availability: Verify current water availability and electrical service when making reservations. Standard electrical service provides enough capacity for basic RV functions while camping with horses. Some reviewers note limitations at similar parks: "If you need the water/electric then this is a great choice."
Site preparation: Upon arrival, check your designated area for rocks or obstructions before positioning your trailer. Similar to how one camper described their preparation process: "Sites are pretty level. The spaces are pretty level."
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