Wolf Creek State Park Campground is one of the primary equestrian camping destinations near Monticello, Illinois, located approximately 35 miles southeast. The park sits on Lake Shelbyville and features 13 dedicated sites for horse campers with additional trailer parking spaces. Horse trails run through wooded terrain, providing riders with access to diverse landscapes that change dramatically with the seasons. Several other campgrounds in the region offer varying amenities for both equestrian and non-equestrian campers.
What to do
Fishing and kayaking opportunities: Moraine View State Recreational Area provides access to a lake where visitors can fish and paddle. "Nice lake for fishing and kayaking. Excellent restaurant on site also," notes Kelly M., who gave the park a 5-star rating.
Beach access: Wolf Creek State Park Campground includes a swimming beach for summer recreation. A visitor mentioned, "This campground also has boat access and a beach and hiking trails. It is built into the woods so most lots are very shady and all are very level."
Boat rentals: Lake access is a key feature at Comlara County Park, though rentals can fill up quickly. According to Melissa B., "Beach costs extra and all boats were rented out by 9am on Saturday." Plan to arrive early if boat rental is part of your agenda.
What campers like
Equestrian facilities: Wolf Creek's horse camping area receives positive feedback from riders. Alicia B. noted the park has "Lots of equestrian parking and camping flush toilets neat trails very swell nice better if seen during the fall. Fishing and boating here as well."
Fall colors: Moraine View State Recreational Area offers spectacular autumn views. Jennifer M. shared, "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."
Waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate lakeside camping options at several parks. At Comlara County Park, Scott N. reported, "The best part was the view of the lake. There was a spot that a person could get a kayak or canoe into the water but I opted to use the dock."
What you should know
Site selection varies: At Deer Creek Campground, riverfront sites are available in certain sections. Kate M. reported, "Near the back you can camp right alongside the river."
Water access limitations: Some parks have water sources located far from campsites. At Wolf Creek, Nathaniel K. advised, "Bring plenty of water hose. The water faucets for fill up can be a bit far away."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between parks. Heidi at Wolf Creek noted, "The bathrooms were dirty and weren't cleaned until Friday," while Ryan M. at Moraine View observed, "Upon finding the rustic tent sites, we'd wished we'd known about that area before going."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. At Whitley Creek - Lake Shelbyville, campers can enjoy lake access, though wildlife awareness is important. Jana C. warns, "Raccoons are really brave and not afraid of humans. They know how to rip open a tent for food. Nothing is safe here."
Beach considerations: Swimming options exist at multiple parks but may have limited hours or additional fees. Brandi M. at Moraine View mentioned, "The swimming beach is apparently only open on the weekends but there are plenty of places to get in the water so it wasn't a big deal."
Wildlife encounters: Families should prepare for animal encounters at equestrian campgrounds near Monticello. Store food securely and teach children proper behavior around wildlife and horses.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Comlara County Park has some uneven sites that require adjustments. Kathie M. noted, "Site 28 unlevel. Requires several lifts. Site is very large however. Does have nice shade."
Electric options: Wolf Creek provides both 30 and 50 amp service for RVs. Sonya A. confirmed, "Nice big spots. 30 and 50 amp available. Right on lake Shelbyville. 309 spots 141 are reservable."
Seasonal considerations: Off-season camping provides more solitude at most equestrian facilities. Sadie R. observed at Wolf Creek, "We stopped in to Wolf Creek State Park later in the day on a Wednesday after trying to stop at a different campground that was closed... the area - which if full would've been pretty cramped for our taste - was absolutely empty."
