Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground offers specialized accommodations for equestrians approximately 50 miles south of Oak Park. The campground includes trail access and basic facilities while keeping horses separate from regular camping areas. Trail systems along the river provide riding opportunities through varied terrain, with seasonal conditions affecting accessibility.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: At Fox Den Campground, riders can explore multiple connected lakes via kayak after a day with horses. "We chose Chain O Lakes because we enjoy kayaking and with 7 lakes connected by small tributaries this fit the bill... Rangers were helpful and delivered firewood to our site daily," notes Aida K.
Fishing access: Horse owners can combine riding with fishing at various water access points. "The lake was very nice. We were able to kayak but be careful getting the kayaks in. Stairs down to the pier and the bottom of the lake is very mushy. The water was very clear and you could see the fish swim by," reports Julia B. from Turner Lake South.
Wildlife viewing: Many equestrian trails provide excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. A visitor at Turner Lake South mentioned, "I love to kayak through here because I don't need to paddle through the river unless I'm feeling competitive. I enjoy this route for the wildlife and nature scenery. I've seen beavers, minks, ferrets, and sand cranes on my two trips so far."
What campers like
Private campsites: Horse-friendly campgrounds often feature more spacious sites. "The sites are pretty level. The trees will be terrific in about 20 years. There is nothing much to do here, or nearby. It's clean and the comfort stations are new," according to Jeff G. at Big Rock Campground.
Clean facilities: Many equestrian sites maintain better bathroom facilities than primitive camping areas. At Potowatomi Campground, visitors appreciate the maintenance: "Bathrooms inclu vault were cleanest I've seen. Bike path/hike path is long and wide and very nice. We had kids under age 8. River is fast, tried to fish."
Off-trail privacy: Horse campgrounds typically offer more seclusion than standard sites. "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," notes Phillip L., highlighting the historical elements near some equestrian areas.
What you should know
Limited shade coverage: Many horse-friendly sites have limited tree coverage. "No Shade, and no showers. This is a relatively new campground not too far (about an hour drive) from Chicago. We looked at this place when we were looking for a spot to camp for a local wedding. But, no shade in the Illinois heat and no shower made it unacceptable," cautions Joel R. about Big Rock Campground.
Seasonal conditions: Spring often brings muddy trails that can be challenging for horses. "There is a trail that was a nice place to explore. Even on multiple adventures, we did not pass anyone when we went hiking on it. We did have to work our way through a few downed trees. The trail looks like it would be pretty muddy if it rains so choose your timing," advises Art S.
Reservation requirements: Horse campgrounds near Oak Park fill quickly during peak season. A visitor at Paul Wolff Campground noted: "Busy campground in July. Smaller, mainly RVs. Friendly staff and friendly people staying on the grounds. This gets 4 stars because you cannot put down a mat outside."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with shallow water areas. One visitor to Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort shared: "Very Friendly Staff I received warm welcome from nice staff at the entrance gate. Tent Campground is nicely tucked inside by the lake. Quit place night time I can hear fish jumping from the water. Clean bathrooms and shower."
Trail difficulty options: Choose sites with varying trail difficulties for riders of different experience levels. A visitor to Paul Wolff Campground explained: "As a Troop we would rent one of the cabins for late season campouts. Clean facilities but the nice part is the scenic hiking for being close to town. Gentle hills and beautiful color. Always see turkey and other small game so great for Scout skills and badges."
Space considerations: For families with both horses and children, seek sites with ample room. "We stayed in the Turner lake south loop, which has nice and private sites. This is in contrast to Honeysuckle hollow which is open and row after row of RV sites. Fox den and Prairie view loops are nice as well with mostly primitive sites," advises Brian O.
Tips from RVers
Trailer access: Many RVers with horse trailers recommend calling ahead to verify site dimensions. "The sites are pretty level. The spaces are pretty level. The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)," notes Rodney D. about Big Rock Campground.
Hookup variations: Water and electric access varies between equestrian sites. "As someone who normally camps in state parks with only electricity hookups, this site was a welcome treat. Rig: 2020 Micro Minnie 1700BH + Ford F-250. Water + 50amp hookups. Wide, open spaces for kids to ride bikes and explore wildflowers," shares Amanda K.
Equipment security: Some campgrounds provide better trailer security than others. "For equipment security, the layout allows horse owners to keep their trailers at their individual sites," notes a visitor, highlighting the practical advantage of sites with adequate space for both living quarters and horse equipment.
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