Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground provides dedicated facilities for horse owners 30 miles from Park Forest, Illinois. The primitive camping area accommodates horse trailers with drive-in access and connects directly to the park's bridle path network. Visitors have access to drinking water, toilets, showers, and trash collection facilities while enjoying the surrounding woodland terrain and riverside paths.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The extensive trail system at Kankakee River State Park includes designated bridle paths through varied terrain. As one camper notes, "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."
Fishing access: Anglers can try their luck along the Kankakee River, though swimming is prohibited due to current conditions. According to a visitor, "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)."
Wildlife education: Visit the nature center for interactive wildlife experiences. One family reported, "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!"
Historical exploration: The area contains archaeological sites worth exploring. "There are Indian caves through the creek where you can still find arrowheads. Exploring the area is pretty cool and the park is quite expansive," shares a regular visitor to the park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Big Rock Campground offers large, level areas ideal for setting up horse trailers and camping equipment. One camper explains, "Nice campground with big, level sites. Even though they don't take reservations, there is plenty of space and availability."
Private camping areas: Despite being a popular destination, many sites offer good separation from neighbors. A solo camper mentions, "I had a private, large spot in one of their 'neighborhoods.' Host was knowledgeable, friendly and I was a walk in. Beautiful stroll along the river with my pup."
Clean facilities: The park maintains sanitary conditions in restrooms and shower buildings. "The shower house was good. We went during July 4th so it was busy but the team came out to clean up promptly. There are vault toilets, water, and trash cans in each loop," notes a family camper.
Year-round accessibility: Leisure Lake Resort near Park Forest provides seasonal options with amenities that complement the equestrian facilities at Kankakee. A visitor appreciates the "spacious layout of the RV park, a nice lake, beach, pool, gym, and a dog park."
What you should know
Campsite variation: Sites differ significantly in size and features. "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."
Water hookup logistics: At some campgrounds near Park Forest, water access points may require planning. "The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)," advises one camper, while another mentions needing "about 150' of hose to spigots behind the loops to run to their campers."
Weather considerations: The open terrain at some sites creates exposure to elements. A camper at Big Rock notes, "No Shade, and no showers. This is a relatively new campground not too far (about an hour drive) from Chicago. But, no shade in the Illinois heat and no shower made it unacceptable."
Alcohol restrictions: Kankakee River State Park enforces a no-alcohol policy in accordance with state regulations, while other nearby campgrounds like Leisure Lake Resort allow alcohol, creating different camping atmospheres.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Potowatomi Campground offers family-friendly amenities beyond equestrian activities. "We loved riding our bikes along the river and just being away from the hustle and bustle. Not many amenities other than showers, toilets and hookups, but it just adds to the appeal here."
Playground options: Consider site location relative to play areas. "Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had," mentions one family, suggesting morning or evening playground visits during summer.
Nature center visits: Schedule time for the educational facilities. "My kiddos got to feed and hold a variety of reptiles!" reports an enthusiastic parent, making this an excellent rainy-day activity option.
Quiet time expectations: Be prepared for variable enforcement of noise regulations. "The only complaint is the noise level after 10pm. The quiet time was not strictly enforced. It could be we are there on a Saturday night," notes one family camper.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between campgrounds in the Park Forest area. "As someone who normally camps in state parks with only electricity hookups, this site was a welcome treat," writes an RVer referring to water and 50-amp service at one location.
Site selection strategy: For equestrian camping with RVs, look for specific site characteristics. "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."
Dump station access: When planning multi-day stays with horses, consider waste management options. "The dump station is good. It's expensive, for what is there, if you are not a Kane County resident," notes one RV camper, highlighting the importance of factoring in additional fees.
Ranger
