Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground restricts camping to those with horses only. Located in Bourbonnais on first-come, first-served basis, the campground enforces a strict equestrian-only policy regardless of occupancy levels. Non-horse campers will be redirected to alternative camping areas. Basic amenities include drinking water from community spigots, vault toilets, trash collection points, and sanitary dump station access. Campers should note the absence of electric hookups, water connections at individual sites, and picnic tables.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The equestrian trails at Kankakee River State Park connect to approximately 5 miles of varied terrain suitable for riders of all skill levels. Many visitors appreciate the accessible nature of these trails: "The camp hosts were really fantastic and made it feel like family," reports Linda N., who found the overall experience welcoming.
Explore limestone formations: For those willing to travel slightly farther, Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground offers unique geological features along its trails. According to Stuart K., "With nearly 2,000 acres, there's a lot to explore here at Matthiessen SP... What makes this area particularly unique is the unusual rock formations that you will discover all over the place... where you'll encounter exposed lime and sandstone."
Wildlife observation: The region's diverse ecosystems support abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. At Matthiessen, "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," notes Stuart K., adding that "cottontail rabbits are scurrying around trying to stay hidden from the several bald eagles that conquer the skies."
What campers like
Spacious sites: The equestrian campground layout provides ample room for both horse trailers and camping equipment. At Potowatomi Campground within Kankakee River State Park, nearby standard camping offers similar spaciousness: "Our site was perfect with trees to hang a hammock on and for the kids to run around," according to Linda N., highlighting the practical space available.
Peaceful atmosphere: Horse campgrounds typically offer greater seclusion than standard camping areas. Referring to Matthiessen's equestrian campground, Stuart K. observes: "This CG had no one there on the 3 occasions we visited – which was fine for us, but some might find the solitude here a bit daunting."
Natural surroundings: Campers appreciate the undeveloped character of these equestrian sites. At Big Rock Campground, a regional alternative with more facilities, Melissa C. notes: "Nice campground with big, level sites... Lovely grasslands, ponds, hiking trails, but the lack of trees and privacy isn't my preference," highlighting what makes horse campgrounds distinctive by contrast.
What you should know
Strict equestrian policy: The horse-only requirement is enforced consistently at designated equestrian campgrounds. Amanda C. reports from Matthiessen State Park Equestrian Campground: "Got kicked out cause I didn't have a horse. Even though it was completely empty. Gave me my $8 back though."
Basic facilities: Equestrian campgrounds typically provide only essential amenities. Stuart K. warns: "The facilities are basic-to-bad, so lower your expectations and bring your own sanitary wipes."
Distinct location: The equestrian campground at Matthiessen has a separate entrance from the main park. Stuart K. advises: "This CG is EZ to miss if you don't look for it – DON'T drive all the way into Matthiessen SP either on its west or east sides – this CG has its own discreet entry with parking near the road on the east side."
Local hazards: When exploring trails, be aware of regional plant and insect concerns. Stuart K. cautions: "In all of my camping, I have never really worried too much about poison ivy or ticks, until I came here – you definitely want to not only look out for the 3-leafed poison ivy that thrives here... but be sure to bring some suave to apply to any skin that comes into contact with this nefarious plant."
Tips for camping with families
Nearby alternatives: Families without horses should consider standard camping options in the area. At Kankakee River State Park, Emma H. reports: "My fiancé and I stayed in the Hickory Loop spot 3... The spots are not huge, and not super private (you have next door and across the street neighbors), but we didn't mind that! There were two outlets available, and a small rectangular fire pit with a grate on top."
River access considerations: Kankakee River offers water recreation opportunities with important safety restrictions. Linda N. notes: "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: The area provides opportunities for children to learn about local animals. Linda N. shares: "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!"
Tips from RVers
Water availability: For those with RVs at non-equestrian campgrounds near Wilmington, water hookup locations vary. At Leisure Lake Resort, Iryna R. mentions water quality issues: "Water quality has been very bad. On one occasion, our pet had stomach issues after drinking tap water, which was concerning. The water is so unclean that our shower develops yellow stains within a day."
Hookup considerations: When camping with an RV, note the specific layout of utility connections. Amanda K. advises at Big Rock Campground: "Water + 50amp hookups... Sites seem to be mostly level... Water hookup is far behind camping pad - bring extensions!"
Alternative amenities: For those seeking more developed facilities, consider nearby options. Amanda K. notes that despite being "Walkup only - no reservations taken" and "$35 a night is a bit steep," Big Rock offers "Wide, open spaces for kids to ride bikes and explore wildflowers. Duck viewing. Quiet. Almost 100 improved sites. Full bars on Verizon. Amazing sunsets."
Ranger
