Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground serves riders with horses in Bourbonnais, Illinois, roughly 45 miles from Orland Park. The campground sits within the 4,000-acre state park spanning both sides of the Kankakee River. The park's elevation ranges from 570 to 630 feet, with limestone outcroppings along parts of the riverbank. Trail riders often note the park's mix of hardwood forests and prairie restoration areas.
What to do
Trail riding year-round: The equestrian campground at Kankakee River State Park connects to over 12 miles of designated horse trails. "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," notes Andrea F.
Explore riverside geology: Rock formations along the Kankakee River corridor provide unique exploration opportunities from horseback. "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," explains one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning riders frequently spot deer, turkey, and waterfowl along the river trails. "We were able to take a beautiful stroll along the river with my pup," shares Nicole K. who enjoyed the riverside paths.
What campers like
Spacious sites: The equestrian campground features wider camping spots specifically designed to accommodate horse trailers. At Paul Wolff Campground, another option for horse enthusiasts, one camper noted, "I was lucky once to see the equestrian area full of campers with their horses."
Clean facilities: Despite being primitive sites, campers appreciate the maintained facilities at horse campgrounds near Orland Park. "The shower house was good. We went during July 4th so it was busy but the team came out to clean up promptly," explains Linda N.
Accessibility to trails: Direct access to riding trails from campsites ranks among the top features mentioned. One rider at Big Rock Forest Preserve noted, "It appears to have some equestrian space and trails. Quiet."
What you should know
First-come basis: Most equestrian camping spots operate on a first-come, first-served basis without reservations. "We were a walk-in. Host was knowledgeable, friendly," reports Nicole K. about her experience at Kankakee River State Park.
Bring water containers: While drinking water is available at common areas, sites lack individual hookups. "The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)," advises Rodney D.
Weather considerations: The camping season typically runs April through October, though weather can affect trail conditions. At Potowatomi Campground, one camper shared, "Had rain Saturday but we all just hang out and manage just fine."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for basic accommodations: Equestrian campgrounds prioritize horse facilities over amenities. "This is a simple camping trip where you want flushable toilets, showers, and some electricity," notes Emma H. about her experience camping.
Bring entertainment: Limited organized activities mean families should pack their own recreation options. "Sites accommodate horse trailers with ample parking space" at equestrian campgrounds, leaving room for portable games and equipment.
Consider alternative sites: Families without horses might prefer standard campgrounds with more amenities. At Leisure Lake Resort, "Quiet, family orientated, fishing lake, miniature golf, activities" are available according to Karel M.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most horse campgrounds near Orland Park provide only basic services for RVs. "It's a nice place. Campsites are flat. The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites," explains Rodney D.
Trailer positioning: RVers recommend arriving early to secure spots with shade and proper positioning for horse trailers. "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," notes Shannon H.
Dump station access: Plan water usage as dump stations may be located only at campground entrances. At Big Rock Campground, "The dump station is good" according to Jeff G., which is important for extended stays.
Ranger
