Equestrian camping near Sheffield, Illinois offers multiple opportunities for riders and their horses across primitive campgrounds in the region. The area sits within Bureau County, characterized by a mix of flat prairies and wooded ravines with elevations ranging from 600-700 feet above sea level. Camping sites typically remain open from April through October, though seasonal closures may occur during hunting seasons or extreme weather conditions.
What to Do
Trail riding along Rock River: The Morrison-Rockwood State Park provides several connecting trails with varying difficulty levels. "We saw an article about 'Dutch Days' in nearby Fulton on www.OnlyInYourState.com, (first weekend in May) and thought it looked like fun. The nearest campground at Thomson causeway recreational area was closed both for repairs and for flooding so this was our best choice," shares Brian O.
Kayaking at nearby lakes: Within a 30-minute drive of Sheffield, several waterways offer paddling opportunities. "Nice place to kayak and canoe. Very nice visitor center open until 3 during the week, no weekends. Only $8. We saw a class A, so they do fit," notes Jeff and Linda L. about Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground.
Fishing in stocked waters: Local ponds and lakes contain multiple fish species. "The lake is small but pleasant and stocked with fish. There are boat rentals available and a small restaurant and general store," explains Brian O. at Morrison-Rockwood State Park.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between camping areas. At Jubilee College State Park Campground, campers appreciate the seclusion. "This campground is our 'go-to' when we need a last minute getaway from city life. Located outside of Peoria, Jubilee is far enough away from town that you get clear, start night skies," writes Brooke C.
Night sky viewing: The rural setting provides excellent stargazing opportunities away from light pollution. "The viewing of stars is incredible," Joe M. says about Jubilee College State Park Campground.
Spacious equestrian sites: Franklin Creek State Natural Area Equestrian Campground provides ample room for horses and equipment. "What I enjoyed most about Franklin Creek State Natural Area is the 882 acres of fresh prairieland that feels fairly untouched and ready for some eager exploration," notes Stuart K.
What You Should Know
First-come, first-served basis: Most equestrian campgrounds don't take reservations. At Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground, "There's a registration envelope that you'll pick up when you arrive at Matthiessen SP, where you'll simply need to fill this out with your name, # of days that you are planning to stay and then deposit the envelope in the drop-off kiosk along with the nightly fee and you're all good," explains Stuart K.
Equestrian-only restrictions: Some campgrounds strictly enforce horse requirements. "Got kicked out cause I didn't have a horse. Even though it was completely empty. Gave me my $8 back though," reports Amanda C. about Matthiessen State Park.
Limited amenities: Facilities at most equestrian campgrounds remain basic. "The site was nice little spot with plenty of shade but I was a bit jealous of those with more secluded spots, especially since we are tent campers and all of the others on the loop were big RVs," writes Stacie H.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Morrison-Rockwood State Park, "We had site 57 which is in a loop which goes around a playground. It was great for the kids who could go play and the sites in this loop provide plenty of space and privacy," shares Ben W.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers chances to spot various animals. "Occasionally, if you are especially quiet, you'll come across no shortage of white-tailed deer or wild turkeys foraging through the crabapple and plum trees that are scattered throughout the forest here," Stuart K. notes about Hansen's Hideaway Ranch and Family Campground.
Swimming options: Some locations provide swimming areas for hot summer days. "The 'crown jewel' amenity at this camping ranch is the man-made swimming pond with a small little beachhead encircling it, which the kids will love," Stuart K. explains about Hansen's Hideaway.
Tips from RVers
Level sites can be limited: Prepare leveling equipment for potentially uneven terrain. At Hennepin Canal Lock 22 Campground, "We set up in the parking lot and nobody asked us to move. There is a camping area next to the parking and a smaller area across the canal," explains Art S.
Camp loops vary in privacy: Research specific site locations before arrival. "Of all the camping options up and down the Hennepin Canal, while Canal Lock 21 is likely the largest and has more campsite offerings, it is still very basic and primitive, apart from the restroom, boat launch, picnic tables and fire rings that you will find," notes Stuart K.
Water access considerations: Not all sites provide direct hookups. "No hook-ups, just grass with a fire pit and table. Water available a couple of places along the canal," Jeff and Linda L. mention about Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground.