Equestrian camping near Orland Hills, Illinois offers riders access to over 23 miles of designated trails throughout Kankakee River State Park and surrounding forest preserves. The Kankakee River region sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level with terrain featuring limestone outcroppings, wooded ridges, and prairie lands. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide more moderate riding conditions.
What to do
Trail riding along the Kankakee River: The trail system follows both sides of the river with varied terrain suitable for different skill levels. "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," shares Andrea F. about Kankakee River State Park.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Multiple access points along the water offer opportunities for shoreline fishing. Anglers can expect to catch bass, catfish, and crappie. "We were able to take the kids to some knee deep water to play (swimming is NOT allowed in the river)," notes Linda N., describing her experience at Kankakee River State Park.
Explore the nature center: Located at the park office, the center provides educational displays about local wildlife. "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!" adds Linda N.
Miniature golf for families: Several campgrounds include mini-golf facilities for after-ride entertainment. "Quiet, family orientated, fishing lake, miniature golf, activities," mentions Karel M. about Leisure Lake Resort.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Most equestrian-friendly campsites provide ample room for trailers and portable containment systems. "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. Our site was perfect with trees to hang a hammock on and for the kids to run around," explains Linda N.
Clean facilities: Multiple reviews highlight the cleanliness of shower and bathroom facilities. "The shower house was good. We went during July 4th so it was busy (the toilet paper was completely out when I stopped by and it looked like some kids had a water balloon fight in there) but the team came out to clean up promptly," reports Linda N.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The mixed habitat supports diverse wildlife sightings while riding or camping. "I've seen lots of butterflies, gold finches, hawks, deer, flocks of giant sandhill cranes, rabbits, ground squirrels, and of course actual squirrels," shares a camper from Paul Wolff Campground.
Historical features: The area contains interesting historical sites. "This site is near a small cemetery that has tombstones that are hundreds of years old," notes Phillip L.
What you should know
Limited shade at newer campgrounds: Many recently developed equestrian campgrounds lack mature trees. "This is a pretty new camp site, so the trees need some time to get big enough to provide some shade," explains David W. about Big Rock Campground.
Water hookup distances: At some campgrounds, water sources may be located far from actual campsites. "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!" advises Amanda K.
Varying price structures: County residency can significantly impact camping costs. "It's expensive if you are from out of the county. We were hoping to camp at the primitive sites but they are walk-in only," explains Art S.
Seasonal fluctuations: Water quality and availability can change throughout the season. Phillip L. notes, "There is no running water at the site so bring plenty."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Most nearby campgrounds offer playground areas, but consider sun exposure. "Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had," warns Linda N.
Educational opportunities: The nature center offers hands-on wildlife experiences kids will remember. "My kiddos got to feed and hold a variety of reptiles!" shares Linda N. about Kankakee River State Park.
Site selection for kids: Choose shaded sites when possible, especially during summer months. "The most shaded sites are p1,3,5,7 and 9. Many of the sites in the middle are wide open with little shade but nice summer breezes," advises a camper at Paul Wolff Campground.
Weekend planning: Be prepared for higher noise levels on weekends. "The only complaint is the noise level after 10pm. The quite time was not strictly enforced. It could be we are there on a Saturday night," observes Ray S.
Tips from RVers
Electric options: While the equestrian campground lacks hookups, nearby alternatives offer powered sites. "My fiancé and I stayed in the Hickory Loop spot 3. We are very new campers, so we just have a very basic tent setup. When we checked in with the host, there were bundles of firewood for $8 (either cash or cash app). The spots are not huge, and not super private (you have next door and across the street neighbors), but we didn't mind that! There were two outlets available," shares Emma H. about Potowatomi Campground.
Water quality concerns: Some campers report inconsistent water quality that may affect equipment. "The flush toilet building was very clean, but there was no TP in the ladies' room. And I have to wonder why you would build a new campground without showers?" points out David W.
Firewood availability: Most campgrounds sell firewood on-site, saving transport space in your rig. "We did not have to collect firewood because there is a man walking around with a wheel barrow selling it which was really convenient," reports Phillip L.
Ranger
