Kankakee River State Park features dedicated facilities for equestrian camping near Oak Lawn, Illinois, located about 45 miles south. The park encompasses 4,000 acres along the Kankakee River with terrain suited for trail riding through woodland and riverside areas. Temperatures range from summer highs around 85°F to winter lows near 20°F, with riding conditions typically best during spring and fall. The park connects to multiple trail systems and water access points where horses can cool off.
What to do
Trail riding on designated paths: Kankakee River State Park offers miles of bridle paths throughout the park. "The area is well kept, clean, and well managed. I have frequented this park because it offers a lot of activities from primitive camping, RV parking, fishing, hiking, biking, backpacking, etc. They're are some rock cliffs that are suspended over the Kankakee river and also over a creek that feeds it," notes Andrea F.
Fishing from shorelines: The river provides multiple access points for anglers. "We did not have to collect firewood because there is a man walking around with a wheel barrow selling it which was really convenient. There is a short hike that crosses a bridge and it goes along the river," explains Phillip L.
Biking on paved trails: Paul Wolff Campground features an extensive trail network. "I've seen lots of butterflies, gold finches, hawks, deer, flocks of giant sandhill cranes, rabbits, ground squirrels, and of course actual squirrels. Lots of people (including me) bring their leashed dogs," reports Marisa A.
What campers like
Private campsites with ample space: Horseback riders appreciate the spacious layout for trailers and equipment. "The campsites are very spread out and you will have a very private quiet campsite. This site is near a small cemetery that has tombstones that are hundreds of years old," says Phillip L. about Kankakee River State Park.
Kid-friendly features: Leisure Lake Resort offers multiple recreation options for families seeking equestrian alternatives. "Quiet, family orientated, fishing lake, miniature golf, activities," notes Karel M.
Natural water access: Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort provides lake-based recreation when not trail riding. "The lake is beautiful and surprisingly picturesque as it is all nature preserve on the opposite side. The beach is large enough and there are clean bathrooms right there," reports Chloe N.
What you should know
Limited water hookups: Plan accordingly for both human and equine needs. "The water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!" advises Amanda K. about Big Rock Campground.
Shower availability varies: Some equestrian facilities have basic amenities only. "There is one very clean flush toilet building but no showers. They don't advertise showers, but this is the newest and nicest campsite I have seen without showers," notes David W. about Paul Wolff Campground.
Campsite size variations: Sites differ significantly in layout and usability. "We had four sites on Osage loop for tent camping. Two were very small (14&15), and little grass for tent setup, fine for RV or trailer campers. They were private with brush between sites. 16&17 were amazing for tents!! Open, tall trees for our tight rope and hammocks and shade," explains Shannon H. about Kankakee River State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Nature center programs: Kankakee River State Park offers educational opportunities. "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!" says Linda N.
Safety near water: Supervise children closely around the Kankakee River. "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). Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had," warns Linda N.
Weather preparation: Summer temperatures frequently reach 90°F, with thunderstorms common. "It rained a ton during our trip so we didn't explore much, but would definitely recommend for a simple camping trip where you want flushable toilets, showers, and some electricity," advises Emma H.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Big Rock Campground provides services but with some limitations. "There is electric at the sites and water spigots throughout, although not really at each space. I saw where some campers hooked about 150' of hose to spigots behind the loops to run to their campers," notes Jeff G.
Noise considerations: Quiet hours may not be strictly enforced at some campgrounds. "This is a reasonablly priced campground with all facilities in great condition. And it is very spacious with woods separating your neighbors. The only complaint is the noise level after 10pm. The quite time was not strictly enforced," reports Ray S.
Site selection: For equestrian camping, look for perimeter sites with more shade. "Even though they don't take reservations, there is plenty of space and availability. Lovely grasslands, ponds, hiking trails, but the lack of trees and privacy isn't my preference," explains Melissa C.
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