Illinois offers several fantastic places for horse camping. Here are some of the best options:
Shawnee National Forest: Located in southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest provides excellent horseback riding opportunities. You can explore the extensive trail system, including the River-to-River Trail, which spans the forest from the Ohio River to the Mississippi River. The Equestrian Campground in the forest offers horse-friendly amenities, such as hitching posts, manure disposal facilities, and water access.
Giant City State Park: Situated near Makanda, Giant City State Park is renowned for its scenic beauty and horseback riding trails. The park features over 20 miles of equestrian trails that wind through the picturesque forested areas and rugged terrain. The Giant City Equestrian Campground offers horse stalls, a wash rack, and a manure disposal facility.
Kankakee River State Park: Located in northeastern Illinois, Kankakee River State Park offers equestrian trails that traverse through diverse landscapes, including woodlands, prairies, and wetlands. The park has an equestrian campground equipped with hitching posts, water access, restrooms, and manure disposal stations.
Matthiessen State Park: Situated near Utica, Matthiessen State Park features breathtaking canyons, waterfalls, and beautiful rock formations. While horseback riding is not allowed within the park, you can find horse-friendly trails nearby at Buffalo Rock State Park, which offers equestrian camping facilities.
Mississippi Palisades State Park: Located in the northwestern part of Illinois, Mississippi Palisades State Park is known for its stunning limestone bluffs and scenic views of the Mississippi River. The park provides horseback riding trails that meander through woodlands and along the river. The equestrian campground offers horse stalls, water access, and hitching posts.
Moraine Hills State Park: Situated near McHenry, Moraine Hills State Park offers horseback riding trails that wind through rolling hills, woodlands, and around beautiful lakes. The park has an equestrian staging area with parking and a manure disposal station.
Before planning your horse camping trip, it’s always a good idea to contact the specific park or campground to inquire about their current facilities, trail conditions, and any permit requirements.