Equestrian camping options around Thebes, Illinois include dedicated facilities for riders and their horses with connecting trail systems. The region offers level terrain suited for trailer parking and campsite setup. Equestrian campgrounds typically provide basic amenities including water access for both riders and horses, while maintaining the rustic atmosphere preferred by trail riders. Most horse-friendly campgrounds in southern Illinois connect directly to trail networks, allowing immediate access to riding opportunities without trailer transport.
What to do
Trail riding near Kinkaid Lake: Johnson Creek Recreation Area provides direct access to equestrian trails that wind through the Shawnee National Forest. "Located on Kincaid Lake in the northwestern edge of the Shawnee National forest. The campground has three small loops. Two are more forested with smaller sites and one is more open on the edge of the forest, and geared up for equestrian camping," notes reviewer Stacia R. about Johnson Creek.
Rock climbing in the area: Giant City State Park offers rock climbing opportunities for experienced climbers. "For climbers, there is a ton of nearby trad and sport climbing. The main wall stays wet for a while so if it has recently rained you may need to find somewhere else," explains Josh M. about Giant City State Park Campground.
Fishing at multiple locations: Dutchman Lake Camp provides fishing opportunities with easy lake access. "Great little spot right off the interstate. Lots of nice scenery and decent fishing," reports Jonathan H. about the lake conditions at this rustic camping area.
What campers like
Secluded camping environments: Campers appreciate the quiet settings available at many horse campgrounds. "Nice quiet campground with lots of trees and nicely separated camp spots," writes Glenda about Ferne Clyffe State Park, noting the natural buffers between sites that provide privacy.
Access to varied terrain: The diverse landscape offers riders multiple trail experiences. "The geology is much like the Missouri area near the other bank of the Mississippi river. I have tent camped here and camped in a pop-up camper in the fall both times. Hiking is the best activity here unless you ride horses and that is great here too," shares Michael M. about Giant City State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Night sounds add to the camping experience near Thebes. "We heard several owls calling in the trees around us when we went to bed, so we stayed up listening for awhile. In the middle of the night we were startled awake by a pair of owls in the tree right above us," recounts Joel R. from his stay at Johnson Creek Recreation Area.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some equestrian campgrounds require advance planning while others operate on first-come basis. "All sites are FC/FS. Full hookups are in Loop B & it was full. Overall the campground was full but not very many people around. Appears many locals take spots on the weekends & then hold onto them during the week," explains Tracie E. about Crab Orchard Lake.
Trail marking inconsistencies: Navigation can be challenging in some areas without proper maps. "My only complain is the trails in this park are not clearly marked and they do not offer maps you can take with you," notes Hannah H. about Equestrian Campground at Ferne Clyffe State Park.
Water availability fluctuates: Access to water for horses varies by season and location. "We camped here mid-April and the campground water spigots had not been turned on yet," reports Stacia R. about early spring conditions at Johnson Creek Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Evening nature programs: Nighttime wildlife viewing creates memorable experiences. "While darkness hit the fireflies in the forest were magnificent!" shares Stephanie S. about Deer Ridge Campground at Ferne Clyffe State Park.
Nearby attractions: Combine camping with visits to local points of interest. "While you are here, check out the Lodge for dinner one night and climb to the top of the water tower observation deck for some amazing views! Make the quick drive to Makanda and explore the little hippy town," suggests Shana D.
Primitive camping options: Family tent sites often provide more seclusion than RV areas. "We stayed in the primitive camp site, while there were others there, everyone was dispersed far enough that it felt private. Camp grounds were clean, quiet, and the camp host and park ranger were very kind," reports Sunshine Z.
Tips from RVers
Site conditions for larger rigs: RV campers should check site specifications before arrival. "There are currently 25 equestrian camp sites in this park in a different area than the normal RV and Tent campground. The campground is being upgraded this year in which I believe they are adding 50 amp full service to many of the electric only sites," advises Michael M.
Water and power limitations: Plan for restricted hookups at equestrian sites. "They have electric sites, and water is available but you need to fill your tank before setting up camp. Sites are flat and most are pull through," notes Joel R. about Shawnee Forest Campground.
Alternative camping styles: Some locations offer unique accommodations beyond traditional sites. "They also offer tiny home rentals, yurt-style glamping tents, RV spots with 30 amp, 50 amp and 110 outlets, and The Art Barn for larger groups, retreats or family reunions," explains Laura P. about lodging options at non-traditional horse camping facilities.
