Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground provides dedicated facilities for horses and riders approximately 45 miles from South Holland, Illinois. The campground sits along the Kankakee River on primarily flat terrain with scattered wooded areas and open grasslands. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer months can be humid with temperatures averaging in the 80s.
What to do
Trail riding access: Equestrians can access trail systems directly from Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground with routes following both wooded areas and riverbanks. The main park offers "Indian caves through the creek where you can still find arrowheads. Exploring the area is pretty cool and the park is quite expansive and impressive for this state," according to Andrea F.
Bike path exploration: Paved paths near Potowatomi Campground connect to the equestrian area and offer additional recreation options. Shannon H. notes, "Bike path/hike path is long and wide and very nice. We had kids under age 8."
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas surrounding the equestrian facilities provide opportunities for wildlife observation. The park's nature center offers hands-on experiences as noted by Linda N.: "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!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The equestrian area maintains separation between camping spots, with Big Rock Campground offering another option with spacious sites. Jacqueline F. appreciated that "not many amenities other than showers, toilets and hookups... adds to the appeal here. A great spot to get away and experience some silence and solitude!"
Camp host assistance: Staff at the equestrian facilities provide guidance and assistance. At the main Potowatomi area, Maya L. mentioned they "came in without a reservation and got a nice spot for a camper, showers were decent and hosts were nice!!"
Firewood availability: Campers appreciate the convenience of on-site firewood at the horse campground. Emma H. noted at the nearby Potowatomi Campground, "When we checked in with the host, there were bundles of firewood for $8 (either cash or cash app)."
What you should know
Storm shelter limitations: The equestrian area has restricted storm shelter access during severe weather. This issue extends to other nearby facilities, with one reviewer at Leisure Lake Resort noting "The storm shelter is typically locked, making it inaccessible in emergencies, which is a major concern."
Noise considerations: Quiet hours may not be strictly enforced at certain times. Ray S. observed, "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."
Water conditions: Equestrian campers should plan to bring additional drinking water for horses. At nearby facilities, water quality can vary, with phillip L. noting about Davis Creek, "The restrooms were really dirty and had a lot of insects flying around. There is no running water at the site so bring plenty."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose camping spots with adequate space for children and equipment. Shannon H. recommends specific sites at Kankakee River State Park: "16&17 were amazing for tents!! Open, tall trees for our tight rope and hammocks and shade. Grass for tents."
River safety awareness: The Kankakee River has strong currents that require caution with children. Linda N. cautions, "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)."
Weather preparation: Summer temperatures can make playground use difficult without shade. "Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had," reports Linda N.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup planning: At equestrian sites, RVers should bring extra water containers. For other nearby options, Amanda K. advises about Big Rock Forest Preserve: "Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions! As someone who normally camps in state parks with only electricity hookups, this site was a welcome treat."
Site leveling considerations: Most horse camping areas have relatively flat terrain. Rodney D. confirms nearby sites are accommodating: "Campsites are flat. The water hookups are kind of far from the individual sites (make sure you have extra hose)."
Limited shade awareness: Horse campers should plan for limited tree coverage. David W. notes about Big Rock, "This is a pretty new camp site, so the trees need some time to get big enough to provide some shade."
Ranger
