Horseback riding trails wind throughout the rural landscape surrounding Washington, Illinois, approximately 150 miles southwest of Chicago. The region features rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 600-750 feet above sea level. Central Illinois experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures often reaching 85-95°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing.
What to do
Trail riding at Sand Ridge State Forest: Located about 60 miles from Washington, this forest offers over 50 miles of equestrian trails with varying difficulty levels. "Excellent horse trails. Went with a group of around 8 people and it was beautiful! Well maintained," notes Rachel H. from Jubilee College State Park Campground.
Fishing at Evergreen Lake: The lake at Comlara County Park provides multiple fishing spots with various species. "The campground is very big with lots of sites and since we were there at the end of October, there were not many other people around. We got a beautiful spot right on the lake," shares Sarah S. from Comlara County Park.
Kayaking on local waterways: Several parks offer water access for paddlers. "Large, quiet campsites that are not too crowded. Near the back you can camp right alongside the river," explains Kate M. from Deer Creek Campground, highlighting riverside paddling opportunities.
What campers like
Secluded equestrian sites: Horse campers appreciate the dedicated facilities at Horseman's Park. "This is the campground for horses and their riders. Tie up posts are in each campsite along with picnic tables... The outer ring sites are more private and up against the woods," explains Art S. from Sand Ridge Horse Campground.
Quiet weeknight camping: Many campgrounds in the area are busier on weekends. "We only saw two other campers, so lots of spaces. Pit toilets along the canal. Well kept. Small gravel bike trail along most of the canal. Nice place to kayak and canoe," notes Jeff and Linda L. from Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground.
Clear night skies: The rural setting provides excellent stargazing. "Great campground to get out of the city. The viewing of stars is incredible," says Joe M. from Jubilee College State Park Campground, highlighting the minimal light pollution in the area.
What you should know
Hunting seasons affect trail access: Most equestrian campgrounds and trails close during deer hunting season. "From the many valleys you will surprisingly encounter and the small trickling waterfalls you will stumble across to the non-stop trails, canyons, bridges, stairways, dams and dells that you will come across in this place," describes Stuart K. from Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground.
Campground amenities vary widely: Some locations offer basic services while others are more primitive. "This campground surprised us. We got there in the dark and woke up to Fall colors, Canadian geese, trails, playgrounds. We got in without a reservation and upgraded to a beautiful spot on the water," shares Jennifer M. from Moraine View State Park.
Water access often requires fees: Some parks charge for lake or beach access beyond camping fees. "Good rates but the kicker is the $20.00 fee per boat/kayak to get on the lake plus the fee for the swimming area was a bit much for us," mentions Marcie J. from Comlara County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and open spaces: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "There are a few playgrounds for the kids to stay busy as well as small marked trails to follow. Not too populated," recommends Sage C. from Comlara County Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy spotting local fauna. "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," notes Stuart K. from Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground.
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites strategically for family comfort. "Sites could use more space as there is no privacy at all but that's the only thing that needs improvement," advises Kimberly L. from Moraine View State Park regarding site spacing considerations.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups at horse campgrounds: Most equestrian-focused campgrounds offer minimal services. "No hook-ups, just grass with a fire pit and table. Water available a couple of places along the canal... We saw a class A, so they do fit," reports Jeff and Linda L. about Hennepin Canal Lock 21 Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects site conditions significantly. "Very enjoyable and relaxing, people were great and nice beach," mentions Leslie about Deer Creek Campground, noting summer amenities that aren't available year-round.
Parking for horse trailers: Designated areas accommodate larger vehicles at equestrian sites. "Across the road is a spot for day use riders to park their trailers. There were a bunch parked when we passed it," observes Art S. at Sand Ridge Horse Campground.
Legend
