Kankakee River State Park's Equestrian Campground provides specialized accommodations for riders exploring the rolling terrain of northeastern Illinois. Located approximately 60 miles south of Whiting, Indiana, this dedicated equestrian area sits at an elevation of about 600 feet above sea level within the Kankakee River valley. The campground operates year-round but experiences seasonal closures during particularly wet periods when trail conditions deteriorate.
What to do
River exploration: The Kankakee River flows through limestone beds creating unique geological features for riders to discover while following riverside trails. At Kankakee River State Park, campers appreciate the extensive trail system. "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. They're are some rock cliffs that are suspended over the Kankakee river and also over a creek that feeds it," notes Andrea F.
Biking opportunities: Pack bikes for alternative recreation when not riding horses. The paved trail system paralleling the river provides excellent cycling options. "Bike path/hike path is long and wide and very nice. We had kids under age 8," shares Shannon H. Many equestrian campers bring bikes to scout trails before riding or to enjoy family activities between rides.
Nature center visits: The park's nature center offers educational programming beneficial for younger campers during equestrian trips. "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!" explains Linda N. from Potowatomi Campground.
What campers like
Spacious site layouts: The equestrian camping area provides ample room for horse trailers with designated parking spaces. Other camping loops in the park demonstrate the overall spacious design. "16&17 were amazing for tents!! Open, tall trees for our tight rope and hammocks and shade. Grass for tents," reports Shannon H. about the Osage loop, showing how the park prioritizes giving campers adequate space.
Clean facilities: Despite heavy use during peak season, maintenance staff keeps facilities in good condition. "Bathrooms inclu vault were cleanest I've seen," notes Shannon H. This level of maintenance extends to the equestrian areas as well, where water stations and sanitation facilities receive regular attention.
Privacy between sites: Leisure Lake Resort, an alternative option near the equestrian camping area, offers "the spacious layout of the RV park," according to Iryna R., which provides "a nice lake, beach, pool, gym, and a dog park." Similar privacy considerations exist at the equestrian campground, with natural buffers between camping units.
What you should know
Water conditions vary: Water quality issues may affect both horses and humans during certain periods. "Water quality has been very bad. On one occasion, our pet had stomach issues after drinking tap water, which was concerning," notes Iryna R. about nearby Leisure Lake Resort. Equestrian campers should bring additional water for horses during questionable periods.
Weekend noise levels: Quiet hours enforcement varies, particularly on weekends. "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," explains Ray S. at Kankakee River State Park.
Reservation timing: Limited equestrian sites fill quickly during peak riding seasons. "The sites are really limited around here so I recommend reserving weeks earlier or just come early," advises phillip L. This applies particularly to equestrian camping near Whiting, Indiana, where dedicated horse camping options are scarce.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: Research individual sites before booking for equestrian camping with families. "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," reports Shannon H. Similar variability exists in the equestrian camping area.
River safety awareness: The Kankakee River presents safety concerns for families with children and horses. "River is fast, tried to fish," notes Shannon H. Another camper clarifies that "swimming is NOT allowed in the river," but mentions "we were able to take the kids to some knee deep water to play."
Weather preparedness: Summer heat affects both horses and humans at Kankakee River State Park Equestrian Campground. "Playgrounds are unfortunately exposed so it was not suitable for the 100 degree days we had," observes Linda N. Similar exposure issues exist on many equestrian trails, requiring proper planning for hydration and shade.
Tips from RVers
Simple setup convenience: RV camping near the equestrian area offers straightforward amenities. "When we checked in with the host, there were bundles of firewood for $8 (either cash or cash app)," reports Emma H. "There were two outlets available, and a small rectangular fire pit with a grate on top."
Shower facilities: "The showers were pretty great for a camp ground!" notes Emma H., who stayed at Hickory Loop. The equestrian campground provides similar shower access important for riders after long days on trails.
Site dimensions: RVers with horse trailers should carefully consider space requirements. Maya L. mentions arriving "without a reservation and got a nice spot for a camper," though site dimensions vary considerably throughout the park's camping loops, as other reviewers have noted about specific loops having sites too small for certain setups.
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