Equestrian camping near Griffith, Indiana centers on Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground, located about 45 miles southwest in Bourbonnais, Illinois. The park encompasses over 4,000 acres of woodland and riverfront terrain with 13 miles of multi-use trails. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing December through February, making spring through fall the optimal seasons for horseback riding activities.
What to do
Trail riding on shared paths: The Kankakee River State Park trail system features wide, crushed gravel paths suitable for horses, hikers, and cyclists. According to Andrea F., "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. Additionally, there are Indian caves through the creek where you can still find arrowheads."
Fishing opportunities: The Kankakee River offers fishing spots accessible from the campground areas. "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)," notes Linda N. from Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park.
Nature center activities: Visit the park's interpretive center for educational programs about local wildlife. Linda N. reports, "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
Site privacy and spacing: Potowatomi Campground — Kankakee River State Park offers well-spaced sites that campers appreciate. Shannon H. notes, "We had four sites on Osage loop for tent camping. 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."
Camp hosts and atmosphere: The welcoming staff enhances the experience. Linda N. shares, "The camp hosts were really fantastic and made it feel like family." Maya L. confirms this sentiment with her observation that "hosts were nice!!"
Natural setting: The wooded environment provides a peaceful retreat. Jacqueline F. writes, "I loved this spot! 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. A great spot to get away and experience some silence and solitude!"
What you should know
Bathroom and shower facilities: Facilities vary in cleanliness based on usage levels. Emma H. from Leisure Lake Resort reports, "There are a few water pumps and vault toilets within walking distance, but we were pretty close to the shower house, which had stalls for toilets and showers. The showers were pretty great for a camp ground!"
Site selection considerations: Not all sites accommodate the same equipment or camping styles. Phillip L. advises, "The campsites are very spread out and you will have a very private quiet campsite. This site is near a small cemetery that has tombstones that are hundreds of years old. I got to stay at site 14 at Davis creek."
Weekend noise levels: Holiday weekends can be busy and sometimes loud. Ray S. notes, "The only complaint is the noise level after 10pm. The quite time was not strictly enforced. It could be we are there on a Saturday night."
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate activities: The park offers options for various age groups. Linda N. mentions, "Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had," suggesting morning or evening playground visits during hot weather.
Site selection for tent camping: Choose sites carefully if using tents. Shannon H. advises, "Wish we knew more about individual site layout. Grills were new. Bathrooms inclu vault were cleanest I've seen. Bike path/hike path is long and wide and very nice. We had kids under age 8."
Weather contingency plans: Prepare for rain when visiting. Emma H. shares, "It rained a ton during our trip so we didn't explore much, but would definitely recommend for a simple camping trip where you want flushable toilets, showers, and some electricity."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup options: For those requiring electricity, select appropriate sites. Ray S. describes Kankakee River State Park as "a reasonably priced campground with all facilities in great condition. And it is very spacious with woods separating your neighbors."
Site dimensions: RV campers should note the varying site sizes. Shannon H. points out, "Biggest spaces. Can add that 13, 6, 5, 4 Osage are good RV but not good tent."
Reservations and timing: Book well in advance, especially for popular weekends. Phillip L. advises, "The sites are really limited around here so I recommend reserving weeks earlier or just come early."
Legend
