Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground offers specialized facilities for horse owners near Oak Forest, Illinois. Located approximately 30 miles south of Oak Forest, the equestrian camping area provides separate accommodations from the park's standard Potowatomi Campground. The trails throughout the park connect directly to the equestrian camping area, giving riders immediate access to varied terrain along the Kankakee River.
What to do
Trail riding through natural habitat: Horse owners can access several miles of riding trails directly from the equestrian campground at Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground. The crushed gravel bike path allows horses in designated sections, providing diverse terrain options for riders of different skill levels.
Rock climbing and cave exploration: Beyond equestrian activities, the broader Kankakee River State Park area offers unique geological features. "There are some rock cliffs that are suspended over the Kankakee river and also over a creek that feeds it. These are great for climbing and scaling. Additionally, there are Indian caves through the creek where you can still find arrowheads," notes Andrea F. from Potowatomi Campground.
Fishing along the Kankakee River: Campers can fish along the river banks, though swimming isn't permitted. "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)," explains Linda N. from Potowatomi Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites with natural separation: Paul Wolff Campground at Burnidge Forest Preserve offers campsites with good spacing. "I wish there was more distance between sites in the water/electrical loops for more privacy, but I'd go every weekend if I lived in Kane county because it would be worth the resident price even though there are so many RVs," reports Marisa A.
Clean facilities and helpful staff: At Big Rock Campground, campers appreciate the maintenance of facilities. "Nice clean place. Activities for the kids and adults," mentions Tyler S. The campground features paved roads and level sites with water and electric hookups.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Horse campers and regular visitors alike enjoy spotting local wildlife. "We hiked the trail and saw a mother deer feeding her 2 babies. Hard to believe that there is hiking trails like those in such a densely populated area just outside Elgin, IL," shares Tricia E. about Paul Wolff Campground.
What you should know
Limited amenities at some equestrian campgrounds: Most dedicated horse campgrounds near Oak Forest have basic amenities only. At Kankakee River State Park, "The showers were pretty great for a camp ground!" according to Emma H., but equestrian campers should note that corral facilities aren't provided, requiring portable corrals or trailer ties.
Reservation policies vary widely: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate on a first-come basis. Big Rock Campground is "Walkup only - no reservations taken. $35 a night is a bit steep," according to Amanda K.
Water quality concerns: At some facilities, water quality may be inconsistent. One camper at Leisure Lake Resort reported: "Water quality has been very bad. On one occasion, our pet had stomach issues after drinking tap water, which was concerning. The water is so unclean that our shower develops yellow stains within a day."
Tips for camping with families
Nature center activities: Potowatomi Campground offers educational opportunities for children. "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!" shares Linda N.
Playground considerations: When planning horse camping trips that include children, note that playgrounds may have limited shade. At Potowatomi Campground, "Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had," according to Linda N.
Select sites with space for play: Choose campsites with adequate room for children's activities. "Our site was perfect with trees to hang a hammock on and for the kids to run around," notes Linda N. about Potowatomi Campground.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup logistics: At Big Rock Forest Preserve, RVers should prepare for distant water connections. "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!" advises Amanda K. Some campers report needing up to 150 feet of hose to reach water spigots.
Level sites for easy setup: Most RV sites at equestrian campgrounds near Oak Forest are designed with level pads. "The spaces are pretty level. The trees will be terrific in about 20 years," reports Jeff G. about Big Rock Campground, noting its open, grassy camping areas.
Electric options for horse camping: While the equestrian campground at Kankakee River State Park doesn't offer electrical hookups, RVers seeking both horse-friendly camping and electricity might consider Potowatomi Campground's main camping area. "The sites are straightforward and vary quite a bit: some are huge with open green space and others I feel like just for a car and a tent," explains Linda N.
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