Top Horse Camping near Melrose Park, IL

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Best Equestrian Sites Near Melrose Park, IL (8)

    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground

    1.

    Paul Wolff Campground

    18 Reviews
    32 Photos
    143 Saves
    Elgin, Illinois

    Within Burnidge Forest Preserve is Paul Wolff Campground. Paul Wolff Campground contains 89 improved, vehicle camp sites with 50-amp electrical service, water access, parking pad and fire ring. Improved camp sites are available to vehicle campers or tent campers. Each improved site is capable of handling a 50-foot motorhome. There are also 5 equestrian camp sites, where you may camp with your horse(s); and 10 primitive, wooded sites for tent camping only, away from the main camping area. Primitive sites do not have electric service and are available, weather permitting. All camp sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis; reservations are not taken.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $12 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground

    2.

    Big Rock Campground

    17 Reviews
    30 Photos
    66 Saves
    Big Rock, Illinois

    Big Rock Campground, part of Big Rock Forest Preserve, is located at 46W499 Granart Rd., Big Rock, IL. The campground is open seasonally, May - October 15, each year.

    Camp sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not accepted. Payment is accepted via cash, check and credit card. Check-out is at 2 p.m., each day.

    The campground contains 109 camp sites including 96 improved, vehicle campsites complete with 50-amp electrical service, water access, parking pads and fire rings, 9 primitive, tent-only sites without electric access, and four equestrian camp sites.

    Camp fees are as follows:

    Improved camp site (with electric and water): Kane County residents: $20/day Nonresidents: $35/day

    Primitive camp site: Kane County residents: $12/day Nonresidents: $18/day

    Equestrian camp site (with electric and water): Kane County residents: $15/day Nonresidents: $25/day

    Dump station (not registered): Kane County residents: $15 Nonresidents: $15

    Firewood (available at Campground office): Bundle: $5

    Note: Outside firewood is allowed to be brought into the campground, however, all firewood must either be completely burned or left on site. No firewood will be allowed to be taken off site, due to the Emerald Ash Borer quarantine and restrictions by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

    Big Rock Campground opened in the summer of 2013. This project was partially funded by an IDNR OSLAD and Recreational Trails Program (RTP) grant.

    This campground/preserve includes a horseback riding area. Most horse trails are natural surface, mowed grass paths. Limestone screenings trails and asphalt bike trails are available in some of the preserves. These are multi-use trails shared with runners, bicyclists, dog walkers etc. Horse riders are required to stay on designated, forest preserve-maintained trails. Trail riding is not allowed in restricted natural areas, Illinois Nature Preserves, picnic areas or in farmed areas. To prevent trail damage during wet weather, trails may be temporarily closed. Individual forest preserves will post a sign at the entrance when horse trails are closed. Trails are currently OPEN for equestrian use at this campground/preserve.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $18 - $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    3.

    Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

    7 Reviews
    7 Photos
    130 Saves
    Round Lake, Illinois

    Fish Lake Beach is one of the largest, privately owned campgrounds in Illinois, with 580 seasonal sites occupying the majority of the 113-acre property along with 60 overnight campsites. Fish Lake Beach has been family owned and operated for over eight amazing decades. Our brief story in pictures and how we got started is just below. Fish Lake Beach has become a camping tradition or a home-away-from-home for generations of families. We take pleasure in providing a friendly and fun experience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $43 - $73 / night

    • No image available

      5.

      Leisure Lake Resort

      2 Reviews
      37 Saves
      Joliet, Illinois

      Leisure Lake Membership Resort is a family camping and RV resort. Enjoy the great outdoors without the long drive.

      Located in Joliet, Illinois, we are 40 miles from Chicago and only minutes from Chicago Land's Route 66 Speedway, 10 miles from Metra Train Station.

      We are owned and operated by the members for the members. We do allow Good Sam members in based on availability.There are many organized activities, dances, and live entertainment provided throughout the year. We have many amenities to offer! Featuring a 24 acre stocked fishing lake, 2 acre sand bottom swimming lake, swimming pool, convenience store, and free WiFi.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • ADA Access
      • RVs

      $37 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park

      6.

      Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park

      11 Reviews
      39 Photos
      126 Saves
      Bourbonnais, Illinois

      Our Class-A Premium campground is located in the main park with shower facilities, flush toilets, and all sites have electricity. Water is available by pump at designated locations throughout the campground and at the sanitary dump station. This is a very wooded area with 4 loops-Oak, Hawthorne, Osage & Hickory. Pit toilets are also located near each loop. Alcohol is prohibited and credit cards are not accepted at the site.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • No image available

        7.

        Kishwaukee Valley Farms

        Be the first to review!
        1 Save
        Woodstock, Illinois
        • Tents
        • Equestrian
        • Cabins
        • Tent Cabin
        • Glamping

        $74 - $100 / night

        • No image available

          8.

          Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground — Kankakee River State Park

          Be the first to review!
          Bourbonnais, Illinois

          The Equestrian Campground off Illinois Route 113 is open from April 1 through October 31. Equestrian trails operate on a seasonal basis. There is no water available in the Equestrian Campground.

          • Pets
          • Fires
          • Phone Service
          • Equestrian
          • Trash
          • Showers

        Recent Equestrian Reviews In Melrose Park

        65 Reviews of 8 Melrose Park Campgrounds


        • Camper-submitted photo from Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park
          July 18, 2024

          Turner Lake South — Chain O' Lakes State Park

          Nice lake

          The campsites are kinda small but not on top of each other. Had some raccoons at night even after we locked up everything in the car. The lake was very nice. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy. The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by. This loop is best for tent camping. The other loops are basically all rvs. The boat launch to the fox river was nice too but it does get busy.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
          August 23, 2023

          Big Rock Campground

          Pleasant experience

          Stayed 4 nights- first come first served- no reservations- bring plenty of hose for water connections- first site we tried was just too far to connect- toilets but no showers available- electric/ water no full hook ups. Clean, with large sites, about a 5 mile walk around the nearby lake- saw several deer and rabbits - T-Mobile worked just fine- no Wi-Fi

        • Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
          August 19, 2023

          Paul Wolff Campground

          Nice tent/bike camping

          Rode my bicycle for an overnight test run. I stayed in the primitive tent area. There are 5 wooded and 5 prairie sites. There is water and vault toilets by the tent area and flush toilets a 3 minute walk into the RV area.

          As noted in other reviews, I heard 3 trains between 10 pm and 6 am. Otherwise no other excessive noise issues. Tent area was very quiet.

          Staff was also very pleasant and helpful.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
          July 28, 2023

          Paul Wolff Campground

          INCREDIBLE

          Amazing and friendly staff, beautiful grounds, and very well kept. There are mainly RVs and campers but we brought our little tent and were welcomed with open arms. The price is perfect whether you’re a resident of the area or not. There’s options for everyone. 10/10 would recommend!!!

        • Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
          July 26, 2023

          Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park

          Simple state park along the river

          Potowatami campground is divided into four loops. We camped in the Osage loop. Garbage cans are at the start of the loop. A central shower house is on the main road midway between the loops. Right at the start of Osage is an entrance to the crushed gravel bike path. It gave us a great hike through the trees. You can find picnic areas and playground equipment by following the bike path. The camp host checks you in. He gave us the signal in case we drive out of camp. Wave the sign out your window and re-enter camp. He also told us about rock creek nature trail. It’s just across the main road near the ranger office entrance. There are another couple miles of trails if you want some diversity.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
          July 24, 2023

          Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park

          Nice on a Thursday

          First off the camp hosts were amazing! Very friendly and helpful!

          Ok. Came in on a Thursday with no reservations. Camp Hosts got me a spot for Thursday and only had 2 available spots in the whole campground for the weekend so I took Oak 1 over the only other open spot.
          Thursday night was GREAT. It was quiet and peaceful. Had a great day chilling on Friday during the day too. Friday afternoon people started funneling in and it still wasn’t too bad into the evening.

          About 8 is when it got a little worse. There was a group that came in and occupied 2 sites. They were a little more loud but bearable. About 9:45 another part of their group came rolling in. That’s when it wasn’t as nice. They were trying to set up their tent with headlights/flashlights shining into our camp. Yelling back and forth between the 3 sites, etc. Finally I think the quieted down about midnight. Saturday. Still loud and a few of the cars in their group were in and out several times. Not a big deal except every time they were driving out a one way.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
          July 14, 2023

          Big Rock Campground

          Nice open CG with a couple of walking trails

          We have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and stayed in site 35 for 3 days in late June. This is a relatively large CG, just under 100 sites, and fortunately it was only about 25% full, because they do not accept reservations. The CG is very clean and well maintained. The water hookups on most sites were way at the back, or on the"wrong side", which might present issues for some.  AT&T coverage quite good, with 3 Bars of 5G service and speeds up to 22 MB/s. We had a clear view of the southern and northern sky, so we were able to get DISH coverage on all three western satellites at our site and Starlink had speed up to 19 MB/s.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
          June 24, 2023

          Big Rock Campground

          Big open field

          I wouldn't recommend this "Campgrounds" for anyone not in a trailer. You're going to be just camping in a big open flat field.

          Also if you're not a resident of the local county, you're going to be paying an additional $10 per night.

          There are no showers. There is one flush toilet and two pit toilets.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
          May 21, 2023

          Big Rock Campground

          First time campers

          Nice clean area to camp. Most of the sites are for travel camper or RV’s.

          A couple of drive Ups.

          50/30 amps hookups. Water hookups as well. Great water pressure.

          Running water restrooms & non-running water restrooms.

          2-dump sites they have sections for tent camping- but down fall is they do not have showers.

          Overall experience was great and we will return.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
          May 19, 2023

          Paul Wolff Campground

          Nice Suburban Campground

          The campground has nicely spaced sites. If others think these sites are close, they haven’t been to campground with close sites. There is a train next to the campground that runs once a day, but it is before 10pm. The rules say you cannot take any plants or animals whether dead or alive from the forest preserve and campground. There is a limit to the length of stay for all campers, except for the six campground attendants, of 14 days in a 21 day period.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
          May 12, 2023

          Paul Wolff Campground

          Not for serious campers

          This is definitely more of a rest area than a campground. All the sites are pretty tightly packed, was awoken by a toddler screaming across from us like it was being murdered for about an hour at 6 am. Relaxing. They do have flush toilets as well as vaults that were both kept fairly clean. Firewood is a scam. Spent an hour collecting dead, dry, fallen wood OFF THE TRAIL(NOT out of the woods), only to have it taken because they sell wood. But the wood they DO sell was knotty and not dried well enough and couldn't get half of it to burn well at all. Basically, don't come here for an actual camping experience, because it will not be what you're expecting.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
          May 7, 2023

          Big Rock Campground

          Quiet & Clean

          Newer camp ground that is Clean and well maintained. Has water and electric. The camp ground has a small pond and some trails. Just lacking a playground and shower house. Came across a lot of carpenter bees.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
          September 24, 2022

          Paul Wolff Campground

          Very Noisy

          This campground is well maintained. The tent sites are nicely arranged for privacy. There are a few wooded trails from the campground. Just don’t count on sleep unless you are in the habit of sleeping through trains, traffic and planes taking off at least once per hour from nearby airport. It was torture. Bathrooms are okay not great.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
          July 19, 2022

          Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

          Good reputation is deserved.

          Very big campground with mostly seasonals. Atmosphere is the perfect balance of fun and relaxing. Site size varies. Lots of fun activities. Didn't use bathroom or showers but appear to be clean and well taken care of.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
          July 12, 2022

          Paul Wolff Campground

          Clean and Nice

          I've stayed in a tent and a trailer here. Love this place. Super clean, everyone is pleasant. The tent sites are kind of away from the RVs. There's only 10 tent sites, but you could land your tent at an RV site if you wanted water or electric. Love coming here.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
          June 8, 2022

          Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

          Child Friendly Campground

          Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake. Quit place night time I can hear fish jumping from the water. Clean bathrooms and shower.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
          June 2, 2022

          Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

          Beautiful Quiet and friendly

          staying here while visiting family in the area. The staff is very friendly the grounds are beautiful and well maintained We kayaked in the lake and it's small but nice. Great for kids lots of activities and space to play But very quiet and relaxing by nighttime

        • Camper-submitted photo from Big Rock Campground
          March 20, 2022

          Big Rock Campground

          Hiking, kayaking, fishing!

          We bought our first RV in 2019 and this place was in town so we used it to learn how to better rv camp after work some days. They have a short hiking path that leads to big rock forest preserve where there is a tiny beach that we use to put our kayaks and canoes into for floating parties. Fishing is decent and it has a 1 mile loop that goes up and down hill around the lake. Peaceful and quiet. Great place to get away and chill.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort
          March 18, 2022

          Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort

          Great for kids

          We stayed in one of the tent sites across the road from the lakefront sites. There are about 8 tent/pop up sites and the rest of the campground is for RVs. I recommend the lakefront tent sites, they are spacious and you can fish right from your site! 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 (no hot water in the showers) right there. The camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids! We’re going back this summer. This is not private or rustic camping but still very fun and relaxing.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Paul Wolff Campground
          January 30, 2022

          Paul Wolff Campground

          Decent closest campground to the city

          Took my sister and her bf on their first camping trip here. Our original plan was to come here and do a "vanlife" experience by sleeping in our car, but the attendant told us we can't do that and needed to be in tents. So we all got tents and went to the primitive sites. That wouldn't have been a problem, but the lady had an attitude and said, "I'm going to drive by and check up on you guys"...like we're doing something super illegal? If you want to sleep in your cars, according to her, you need a "commercial" license plate, for anyone who wants to do that! 

          Other than the check-in experience being rough, our campsite was spacious with a table and fire pit. The bathroom was nice and clean. There's a nice forest where we went for a night's walk!

        • Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
          September 26, 2021

          Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park

          Nice, wooded sites

          This was our first camping here and we really enjoyed our stay in the campground. The campground manager was very friendly and helpful and our site was clean with a nice fire pit with built-in grill and very clean. Lots of shower stalls in the shower house. We will definitely be back!

        • Camper-submitted photo from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park
          September 16, 2021

          Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park

          Nice campground/IL state park

          Nice sites in the Potawatomi Campground! Would have been a 5 star but no Campground host on duty the night I camped and no toilet paper in the toilet in the Oak loop. Can't make a reservation day before camping so that kinda sucks as everything is walk in... Am on a "purpose trip" and not a journey, so not partaking of park amenities. I would definitely camp here again!!



        Guide to Melrose Park

        Camping near Melrose Park, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

        What to do:

        • Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Blackwell Family Campground, have beautiful trails. One visitor noted, "Driving in here makes you forget you’re in the middle town! Quiet and roving park rangers give it a very safe feel."
        • Fishing and Boating: At Camp Bullfrog Lake, you can enjoy fishing and kayaking. A camper shared, "Beautiful campgrounds with a lot to do like hiking, biking, and kayaking."
        • Beach Activities: If you prefer a beach vibe, check out Adeline Jay-Geo Karis Illinois Beach State Park. One reviewer mentioned, "I brought my dog to an animal-friendly area of the beach, which was small and secluded."

        What campers like:

        • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A visitor at Camp Reinberg said, "The shower facilities were clean and the staff very friendly."
        • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. A camper at Hollywood Casino Hotel & RV Resort noted, "Friendly staff who were quick to respond to any issues."
        • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having room to spread out. One reviewer at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort mentioned, "The lakefront tent sites are spacious and you can fish right from your site!"

        What you should know:

        • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads or railways. A camper at Martin’s Camping Ground said, "Traffic from I-80 is extremely loud with semi's all night long."
        • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Paul Wolff Campground mentioned, "There are no showers. There is one flush toilet and two pit toilets."
        • Reservation Policies: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A camper at Big Rock Campground noted, "Stayed 4 nights- first come first served- no reservations."

        Tips for camping with families:

        • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. One parent at Blackwell Family Campground said, "The ranger offers evening entertainment for the kiddos."
        • Spacious Sites for Privacy: Choose campgrounds with larger sites. A visitor at Camp Bullfrog Lake mentioned, "The campsite overall is beautiful and the land is well kept."
        • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Some campgrounds have limited markets. A camper at Camp Sullivan noted, "They do NOT have water available or a dump station despite advertising that they do."

        Tips from RVers:

        • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure your campground has the right hookups for your RV. A visitor at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort said, "Spots are ok size. Pretty level."
        • Be Prepared for Crowds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A camper at Camp Reinberg mentioned, "You cannot pull your vehicle by the site but they provide wagons and staff are willing to help."
        • Plan for Noise: If you're sensitive to noise, consider campgrounds that are more secluded. A visitor at Martin’s Camping Ground said, "There are a lot of long-term campers who leave their sites a little messy."

        For those seeking the Best Camping near Melrose Park, IL, these campgrounds offer a mix of nature, activities, and amenities to suit various preferences.

        Frequently Asked Questions

        • Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Melrose Park, IL?

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Melrose Park, IL is Paul Wolff Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 18 reviews.

        • What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Melrose Park, IL?

          TheDyrt.com has all 8 equestrian camping locations near Melrose Park, IL, with real photos and reviews from campers.