Kankakee River State Park's Equestrian Campground accommodates visitors with horses approximately 30 miles from Monee, Illinois. The 4,000-acre park features terrain varying from riverside paths to wooded trails designed for horseback riding. Temperatures range from summer highs near 85°F to winter lows below freezing, with spring and fall offering moderate conditions ideal for trail riding. Water levels in the Kankakee River fluctuate seasonally, affecting trail conditions throughout the park.
What to do
Trail riding along crushed gravel paths: The bike path at Kankakee River State Park provides an excellent riding surface with wide trails. "We loved riding our bikes along the river and just being away from the hustle and bustle," notes Jacqueline F. about Kankakee River State Park.
Explore historic sites: The park area contains remnants of Native American settlements. Phillip L. mentions, "This site is near a small cemetery that has tombstones that are hundreds of years old," making it an interesting historical stop between rides at the park.
Water activities near horse trails: While swimming isn't permitted in the Kankakee River, visitors can enjoy shoreline activities. Linda N. explains, "The river was nice to visit and we were able to take the kids to some knee deep water to play (swimming is NOT allowed in the river)."
What campers like
Natural privacy between sites: The vegetation at Leisure Lake Resort creates secluded camping spaces. Yang L. appreciates the "spacious sites with lush jungle-like greenery grown in between, which provides perfect privacy," making it suitable for horse owners wanting some separation from other campers.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Many equestrian campers appreciate the welcoming environment. Karel M. describes Leisure Lake Resort as "quiet, family orientated" with amenities like "fishing lake, miniature golf, activities" that complement a horse camping trip.
Clean facilities: Despite heavy use, maintenance remains consistent. About Big Rock Campground, David W. notes, "The flush toilet building was very clean," which matters for extended stays with horses.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Water hookups can be challenging at some campgrounds. Amanda K. warns about Big Rock: "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!" This applies to horse campgrounds where water access for animals requires planning.
Limited amenities at some locations: Not all horse campgrounds offer comprehensive facilities. At Big Rock, a camper mentions, "I have to wonder why you would build a new campground without showers?" Consider this when planning multi-day rides.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts trail conditions near Big Rock Forest Preserve. Jeff G. describes it as "grass camping" with spaces that are "pretty level" but notes "the trees will be terrific in about 20 years," indicating limited natural shade for horses.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: Children can interact with nature at certain parks. Linda N. shares, "We did have a really awesome time at the main office/nature center, where my kiddos got to feed and hold a variety of reptiles!" This offers educational activities between trail rides.
Playground accessibility: Some recreation areas have limitations. Linda N. observes that "playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had," suggesting families bring additional shade options when visiting horse campgrounds with children.
Camp host support: Staff can enhance family experiences. Linda N. mentions, "The camp hosts were really fantastic and made it feel like family," providing assistance for those new to equestrian camping.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: Horse trailer accommodation varies between campgrounds. Shannon H. advises, "13, 6, 5, 4 Osage are good RV but not good tent," noting these Potowatomi Campground sites work well for vehicles but less so for ground camping.
Electrical requirements: Power options are limited at some equestrian sites. For those needing hookups, Rodney D. cautions that "The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)" at Big Rock Campground.
Level parking areas: Many horse camping areas feature flat terrain for rigs. Melissa C. confirms Big Rock offers "nice campground with big, level sites," ideal for horse trailers and RVs requiring stable positioning.
Ranger
