Kankakee River State Park's Equestrian Campground provides horseback riders with dedicated camping facilities located approximately 50 miles from Munster, Indiana. This primitive camping area accommodates riders with their horses and trailers on unpaved sites designed specifically for equestrian access. The campground connects directly to the park's extensive bridle trail system that winds through oak-hickory forests and along the Kankakee River corridor.
What to do
Trail riding access: Riders can explore multiple miles of designated equestrian trails throughout Kankakee River State Park. "The area is well kept, clean, and well managed. I have frequented this park because it offers a lot of activities from primitive camping, RV parking, fishing, hiking, biking, backpacking, etc," notes Andrea F. of Kankakee River State Park.
Riverside exploration: The Kankakee River provides scenic stops along trail routes with designated water access points. "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," shares one visitor.
Multi-use recreational options: When not riding, campers can utilize the park's fishing spots, hiking paths, and nature center. "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," reports Linda N.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: The equestrian camping area offers a more secluded experience than the main campgrounds. "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," writes Jacqueline F. about Kankakee River State Park.
Site spacing: The campground layout provides adequate room for horse trailers and camping equipment. "The campsites are very spread out and you will have a very private quiet campsite," says Phillip L., adding that "This site is near a small cemetery that has tombstones that are hundreds of years old."
Year-round accessibility: Unlike some seasonal facilities, the park's equestrian camping remains open throughout the year, allowing for different trail riding experiences across seasons. "It's great during all times of the year," notes one regular visitor.
What you should know
Basic facilities only: The equestrian camping area provides minimal amenities compared to the park's main campgrounds. "The sites are straightforward and vary quite a bit: some are huge with open green space and others I feel like just for a car and a tent," explains Linda N. about Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground.
Water considerations: Potable water is available but limited to designated spigots, not individual site hookups. "There is no running water at the site so bring plenty," advises one camper.
Reservation timing: During peak riding seasons, especially weekends, equestrian sites fill quickly. "The sites are really limited around here so I recommend reserving weeks earlier or just come early," suggests a regular visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: The main park areas offer recreational facilities for children when not riding. "We were able to take the kids to some knee deep water to play (swimming is NOT allowed in the river). Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had," notes Linda N. of Potowatomi Campground.
Spacing for groups: For family equestrian outings requiring multiple sites, certain areas provide better connectivity. "16&17 Osage loop also open to 9&10 on Hickory loop. With a lot of space between so no site setup is on top of each other," explains Shannon H.
Camp host assistance: The park staff provides support for horse camping families. "The camp hosts were really fantastic and made it feel like family," reports one visitor.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: RVs in the equestrian area must be self-contained as no electrical or water connections are available at sites. "Biggest spaces. Can add that 13, 6, 5, 4 Osage are good RV but not good tent," advises Shannon H. about Leisure Lake Resort.
Sanitation logistics: While vault toilets are within walking distance of equestrian sites, the shower facilities require driving to the main campground area. "The shower house was good. We went during July 4th so it was busy but the team came out to clean up promptly," shares one camper.
Alternate camping options: For those seeking more amenities, the park's main campgrounds offer full hookups. "This is a reasonably priced campground with all facilities in great condition. And it is very spacious with woods separating your neighbors," notes Ray S.
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