Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground sits 60 miles southwest of Oak Brook, along the Kankakee River in northeastern Illinois. This region features mixed woodland and prairie terrain with elevations ranging from 580-640 feet above sea level. Horse camping sites in this area typically operate from April through October, with July and August temperatures averaging 83°F and occasional evening thunderstorms common during summer months.
What to do
Kayaking on the Kankakee River: Access the water directly from Kankakee River State Park, where trails connect to shoreline spots. "We loved riding our bikes along the river and just being away from the hustle and bustle. Not many amenities other than showers, toilets and hookups, but it just adds to the appeal here," notes Jacqueline F.
Fishing at designated spots: Fish Lake Beach offers shoreline fishing opportunities 75 miles north of Oak Brook. "I can hear fish jumping from the water," Leo V. explains about his experience at Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort. The small lake provides good fishing access directly from waterfront tent sites.
Horseback riding on established trails: Trail systems connect directly from the equestrian camping areas at Kankakee River State Park, allowing riders to access varied terrain. The park features over 12 miles of designated equestrian trails through woodland and prairie environments. "The equestrian area full of campers with their horses" was noted by Marisa A. at Paul Wolff Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Turner Lake South Campground offers well-maintained shower houses and restrooms. "The shower houses are dated, yet I have seen them clean" explains Marisa A. about Turner Lake South. The campground features raised fire pits and picnic tables at each site.
Privacy between sites: Fox Den Campground provides more secluded camping options with natural barriers between sites. "Pads are pretty level, and each site has some semblance of privacy from other campers (our site was protected on 3 sides by some fairly dense foliage and trees)," notes Ian C. about his experience at Fox Den Campground.
Convenient location: Several horse campgrounds near Oak Brook provide quick access from urban areas. "Great for the times that we have to work weekends and still want to go camping. We can both drive to work and then come back to relax," explains Jeanne M. about Fox Den Campground, noting its accessibility for weekend trips.
What you should know
Reservations recommended: Campgrounds with equestrian facilities fill quickly during summer months. "The full hook ups fill up fast no spur of the moment camping unless it is early or late in the season," warns Jeanne M. about Fox Den Campground.
Limited amenities at some sites: Shower facilities vary between campgrounds. "There is no running water at the site so bring plenty," notes Phillip L. about Davis Creek at Kankakee River. Similarly, at Big Rock Campground, Joel R. cautions: "No Shade, and no showers... no shade in the Illinois heat and no shower made it unacceptable."
Alcohol policies: State parks enforce strict regulations. "ALL Illinois State Parks are now enforcing a no alcohol policy even if you are on your own site," explains Jeanne M. about Chain O'Lakes State Park, which includes Fox Den Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water options: Beach areas provide safe swimming for children. "The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there. The camp store sells treats and pizza, very convenient and makes for a more relaxing camping experience when traveling with young kids!" advises Chloe N. about Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort.
Pack for mosquitoes: Summer months bring increased insect activity. "The mosquitoes were pretty vicious... a couple of the regulars said it was the worst they'd been in years," notes Jenifer K. from Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort, suggesting families come prepared with appropriate repellent.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play equipment near camping loops. "There is a park for the kids in several areas," explains Meg K. about Turner Lake South. For more activities, "There is so much to do at this campground. Horseback riding, archery, hiking, boating, fishing."
Tips for RVers
Site leveling considerations: Look for campgrounds with well-maintained pads. "Sites in Honeysuckle have electric posts too far from parking pad. Fox Den also has more space between sites, more level pads and each site is tucked away with trees," advises Debra M. about Fox Den Campground.
Electric hookup variations: Amperage and availability differ between horse campgrounds near Oak Brook. "Each site has water and electric. Trees are around the outside with few on the inside sites. All the sites have paved pads," shares Art S. about his stay at Paul Wolff Campground.
Water access challenges: Bring extension hoses for remote spigots. "The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)," suggests Rodney D. at Big Rock Campground, which offers electric service but requires longer water connections.
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