Horseman's Park in Sand Ridge State Forest provides horse camping options in a central Illinois location featuring sandy terrain and pine forests. The equestrian-specific sites include tie-up posts at campsites arranged in inner and outer rings. Most trails in the natural area allow horses, with routes up to 15 miles long including challenging sand hills on the Yellow Loop. The $8 fee operates on an honor system, with limited staff presence, especially for late arrivals. Occupancy remains relatively low even on weekends, and the campground typically empties on Saturdays as riders prefer day-use visits.
What to do
Trail riding along the canal system: At Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground, horseback riders can explore miles of trail alongside the historic waterway. "The Hennepin Canal Trail goes right through camp. On a previous visit I rode my bike along the crushed gravel trail. With a few connecting roads, I traveled from a Chicago suburb to the Mississippi River. While I didn't see any horses then we did see a couple riding on the trail today," notes Art S.
Fishing opportunities: Anglers find plenty of options at small lakes and ponds near equestrian camping areas. "There's a small fishing pond off the road a bit," mentions Jonathan J. about Jubilee College State Park Campground. The park offers year-round fishing access even during winter camping seasons.
Enjoy water activities: For those looking to combine horse camping with water recreation, several options exist within an hour's drive. "Excellent horse trails. Went with a group of around 8 people and it was beautiful! Well maintained," reports Rachel H. about the trails at Jubilee College State Park, which also offers fishing opportunities in the park's pond.
What campers like
Privacy in equestrian campgrounds: At Comlara County Park, campers appreciate the spacious sites and varied camping options. "Camped here twice-once tent and once in new camper. Well kept campground. Nice lake-good fishing. RV sites fairly close together with not many/any trees for privacy. Tent sites a bit more spread apart however all traffic from campground routes by tent sites due to one way traffic," shares Kathie M.
Star gazing opportunities: The rural settings of equestrian camping areas provide excellent night sky viewing. "Great campground to get out of the city. The viewing of stars is incredible," notes Joe M. about Jubilee College State Park. The open areas around many horse camps offer unobstructed views of the night sky.
Natural surroundings: Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground offers unique landscape features. "Supreme amount of peace & quiet here at this CG for you and your steed with simply amazing great galloping trails as well as numerous places to tie up your four-hoofed friend," describes Stuart K. The limestone formations and canyon features create a distinctive riding experience.
What you should know
Horse-specific requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds near Peoria strictly enforce horse presence requirements. "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. about Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground.
Variable bathroom facilities: Toilet facilities at horse camps range from basic to primitive. "The bathrooms were disgusting, like probably not cleaned in years gross," warns Jenn K. about one park. At Hennepin Canal Lock 22 Campground, "The picnic tables were in a bad state, with boards missing and deteriorating wood, so it could use some upkeep."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for possible wildlife interactions when staying overnight. "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," recounts Ashley C. about her experience at Jubilee College State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with play areas: While many equestrian camps focus on horse amenities, some offer additional recreation for children. "There are a few playgrounds for the kids to stay busy as well as small marked trails to follow," mentions Sage C. about Comlara County Park.
Consider day-use areas: For families new to horse camping, try the day-use facilities first. "Across the road is a spot for day use riders to park their trailers. There were a bunch parked when we passed it," notes Art S. about Sand Ridge Horse Campground.
Plan for insects: Central Illinois horse camps can have significant bug populations. "The bugs (of all kinds including ticks and mosquitoes) are pretty terrible and I would recommend going either in the early spring or late fall. Not June," advises Joy H. about Sand Ridge Horse Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: When bringing horse trailers and RVs, choose outer ring sites when possible. "The outer ring sites are more private and up against the woods," explains Art S. about Sand Ridge Horse Campground. These sites typically offer more room for larger vehicles.
Water access considerations: Many horse campgrounds have limited water hookups. "There is no potable drinking water anywhere at any of these locks up and down the Hennepin Canal apart from at the Visitors Center, so ensure you bring your own water or a filtration system," cautions Stuart K. about Deer Creek Campground.
Winter access: Some equestrian campgrounds remain accessible year-round. "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," shares Jonathan J. about winter stays at Jubilee College State Park.
