Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground sits on relatively flat terrain with occasional limestone outcroppings typical of north-central Illinois. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures routinely exceeding 85°F and moderate winters, with occasional snow accumulation from December through February. Trail conditions vary seasonally, with spring often bringing muddy sections after rainfall, while fall offers the driest, most stable footing for horses and riders.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground provides access to the Hennepin Canal Trail for equestrians. "This small campground has separate space for equestrian campers and those without horses. The Hennepin Canal Trail goes right through camp...we did see a couple riding on the trail today," notes reviewer Art S.
Fishing access: Comlara County Park offers lakeside fishing opportunities near camping areas. "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," explains reviewer Sage C. The park features both open water and smaller fishing ponds.
Winter camping: Jubilee College State Park remains accessible during colder months. "I have camped at this park several times over the last few years. Especially like winter truck camping here. The pit toilets are always available in the winter, and I usually have the park to myself," writes Jonathan J.
What campers like
Trail system variety: Jubilee College State Park Campground features diverse riding terrain. "Excellent horse trails. Went with a group of around 8 people and it was beautiful! Well maintained," shares Rachel H. The park combines prairie restoration areas with wooded sections.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to spot native animals. "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 that are scattered throughout the forest," mentions Stuart K. about Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground.
Water recreation: Moraine View State Recreational Area provides lake-based activities alongside camping. "Nice lake for fishing and kayaking. Excellent restaurant on site also," reports Kelly M. The lake permits non-motorized watercraft.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Most equestrian campgrounds in the area operate differently than standard camping. "No hook-ups, just grass with a fire pit and table. Water available a couple of places along the canal. No reservations. We only saw two other campers, so lots of spaces," explains Jeff and Linda L. about Hennepin Canal Parkway Lock 21 Campground.
Horse requirements: Matthiessen State Park strictly enforces its equestrian-only policy. "Got kicked out cause I didn't have a horse. Even though it was completely empty. Gave me my $8 back though," reports Amanda C. Proof of horse ownership may be requested by park staff.
Campsite layout variations: Campgrounds near Minonk offer different configurations. "Large lots are nice, out houses need cleaned. 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," notes Marcie J. about Comlara County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Campsite selection: Look for family-friendly sites with space for children. "Our site was huge. Right by jones pond, but the fishing was not the best right by our site. Beautiful park but littered with bottle caps and cigarette butts. Definitely do not enforce the no alcohol policy. Great biking trails and a couple of great geocaches," shares Melissa B.
Safety considerations: Jubilee College State Park has wildlife that may concern some families. "This camping spot was very quiet and secluded, just like I wanted, but at about midnight there were at least 3 bobcats snarling and growling near our tents and then they circled our tents, sniffing them," warns Ashley C.
Activities planning: Schedule appropriate family activities based on season. "This campground surprised us. We got there in the dark and woke up to Fall colors, Canadian geese, trails, playgrounds. We got in without a reservation and upgraded to a beautiful spot on the water," recommends Jennifer M. about Moraine View.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Moraine View State Recreational Area offers various camping environments. "We went here with a group of tent campers sight unseen, so that's always rolling the dice. 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," cautions Ryan M.
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds provide better RV access than others. "Sites could use more space as there is no privacy at all but that's the only thing that needs improvement," notes Kimberly L. about Comlara County Park, which offers big-rig friendly sites with electric hookups.
Seasonal planning: Fall and spring offer better camping conditions for equestrians. "The abundant forest, trails and the creek going through the park make this an ideal place to visit during spring and fall. Summer is ok too but may get a bit hot in Central Illinois for my taste," advises Ranko K. about Jubilee College State Park.
