Equestrian Campground

Hello, fellow Illinoisans and horse enthusiasts! If you're looking for a camping experience that is truly tailored to you and your equine companion, the Equestrian Campground in Kankakee is a destination you simply must explore. Located within the scenic Kankakee River State Park, this campground is not just a place for regular campers; it's a dedicated space for those who want to get away and ride the beautiful trails of Northern Illinois. This is a rustic, primitive campground that offers a peaceful retreat for both riders and their horses. It's a place where the focus is on the simple pleasures of trail riding and connecting with nature. While it may not have all the modern conveniences of other campgrounds, its unique purpose and stunning location make it a standout choice for a dedicated and authentic outdoor adventure.

In a state filled with many different types of campgrounds, the Equestrian Campground offers a truly specialized experience. The community here is made up of passionate horse owners and riders, creating a focused and respectful environment. It’s a place to immerse yourself in a shared hobby, where you can spend your days exploring miles of beautiful trails and your evenings relaxing by a campfire. While it may not be suitable for those without a horse, for those who do, it's a slice of paradise. The beautiful trails and the serene backdrop of the Kankakee River State Park make for an unforgettable ride. It’s a place that has long been cherished by the equestrian community, offering a chance to escape the everyday and truly bond with your horse in a natural setting. We'll go over everything you need to know about this special campground, from its amenities to the unique features that make it so popular with riders.

The Equestrian Campground is located within Kankakee River State Park in Kankakee, IL 60901, USA. Its address places it on the south side of the Kankakee River, off Illinois Route 113. This specific location is a key feature, as it provides direct access to the park’s 12-mile equestrian trail system. The campground is open seasonally, typically from April 1 through October 31, aligning with the operating schedule of the equestrian trails. While it is a dedicated horse campground, the location within the larger state park means you're not far from other trails and attractions. Its rural setting offers a true escape from city life, providing a private and peaceful atmosphere for campers. The campground is also committed to accessibility, with a wheelchair-accessible car park. The on-site parking is designed to accommodate horse trailers, which is a major convenience for those hauling their horses. The easy access to the trails from the campsites themselves is a significant benefit, allowing riders to get on the trail with minimal hassle. The beauty of the surrounding wilderness, with its wooded areas and open fields, adds to the appeal of this secluded yet accessible location.

The Equestrian Campground is a primitive, rustic camping experience, which means it has a limited but essential set of amenities. These services are designed to support a basic, self-sufficient camping trip, especially for those with horses.

• On-site toilet facilities are available, including clean pit toilets.
• Barbecue grills are provided at campsites for cooking.
• Picnic tables are available, offering a place to enjoy a meal outdoors.
• While running water may be available from a well pump, it is non-potable, so campers must bring their own fresh water for cooking and drinking.
• The campground is open for both RV and tent camping, though it is specifically for those with horses.

The highlights of the Equestrian Campground are what make it a unique and valuable resource for horse owners in Illinois. These features are what set it apart from other camping locations.

• This is a dedicated horse campground. Visitors should be aware that it is not intended for campers without horses.
• The main highlight is the direct access to over 12 miles of beautiful equestrian trails that wind through the Kankakee River State Park.
• The campground is known for being quiet and peaceful, offering a serene environment for both horses and riders.
• It is a good choice for kids who are involved in horseback riding, providing a family-friendly atmosphere for this specific activity.
• There are plenty of spaces to camp, and sites are designed to accommodate horse trailers.
• Some sites have places to tie up horses, which is a crucial amenity for equestrians.
• The trails are beautiful and well-maintained, providing an excellent riding experience.

For more information about the Equestrian Campground, it is best to contact Kankakee River State Park directly, as it is managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. They can provide specific details on camping permits and rules.

Address: Kankakee, IL 60901, USA

Phone: Kankakee River State Park can be reached at (815) 933-1383.

Choosing the Equestrian Campground is a decision that is based entirely on a specific purpose: a desire for a horseback riding camping trip. For this purpose, it is an excellent choice. The key reason it's worth choosing is its specialization. This is not a general-purpose campground; it’s a haven for equestrians. The direct access to a 12-mile trail system is a major selling point, allowing riders to enjoy a new, beautiful trail network without having to trailer their horses to a separate location. While the amenities are rustic, with no electricity and a non-potable water source, this is what gives the campground its authentic, primitive feel. It's a place for those who are prepared for a true outdoor adventure and understand the nuances of this type of camping. The serene environment and the community of fellow horse owners create a peaceful and respectful atmosphere. While some of the physical facilities, like damaged picnic tables and minor graffiti, have been noted, the core experience of riding on beautiful trails in a dedicated, horse-friendly space outweighs these small concerns for its target audience. This is a place for riders to truly connect with their hobby and with nature. It is a no-frills, no-drama place for those who know exactly what they are looking for: a beautiful trail and a quiet night under the stars, with their horse right there with them. For the equestrian community in Illinois, the Equestrian Campground is a unique and valuable resource that is well worth the visit.

Equestrian Campground

Kankakee, IL 60901, USA