Kankakee River State Park is great.

By: Author Unknown

On land treasured for centuries - first by Native Americans, later by traders and farmers, and as early as the 1890's by recreation seekers - Kankakee River State Park offers you its proud heritage in an unspoiled setting. The naturally channeled Kankakee River, listed on the Federal Clean Streams Register, is the focus of the park's popularity.

Enveloping both sides of the Kankakee River for 11 miles, in an area 6 miles northwest of Kankakee, the park consists of approximately 4,000 acres. Illinois Routes 102 on the north and 113 on the south frame the park, with Interstates 55 and 57 both providing convenient access.

The park's trail system stretches for miles along both sides of the river. Hiking, biking and cross-country ski trails are on the river's north side, while horse and snowmobile trails can be found on the south.

A 12-mile equestrian trail is located in the wildlife management area along Route 113 and is open April 1 through October 31. Directional signs for trails are posted and maps are available at the park office.

The trails are well marked and groomed annually. The terrain is wooded and grassland and the surface is dirt. A little muddy in the early spring, but not bad. Some single file, some double.

There are two separate "loops" each about 6 miles long, both ending up back at the parking lot. Several spots to park, but it can get crowded on the weekends. Hand pumped drinking water for the horses only, so bring your own for yourselves. Water in a pond and in a creek on the trail. There's also access to the Kankakee River in a couple of spots. Parking lot has trees in spots for shade, but no hitching posts, tie to your trailer. Hope to see you out there!

Directions:
From North or South on Interstate 57, Take I 57 to Exit 315 (Bradley-Bourbonnais) Take Rte. 50 south to the first stop light which is Armour Rd. Turn right on Armour Rd. and go to the 3rd stop light which is Rte. 102. Turn right (west) on Rte.102. The park is located 7 miles west on Rte. 102.

From the North on Interstate 55, Take I 55 to exit 238 (Braidwood). Take Rte. 129 south until coming to Strip Mine Rd. Turn left (east) on Strip Mine Rd. Follow this road until coming to a small town called Wilmington. In Wilmington, turn right on Water Street. Water Street becomes Rte 102. The park is located 10 miles east of Wilmington on Rte. 102.

From the South on Interstate 55, Take I-55 north to Dwight Exit (Rte.17). Take Rte. 17 east. Go approximately 20 miles to Warner Bridge Rd. Turn left (north) on Warner Bridge Rd. Follow this road approximately 10 miles until coming to Rte. 102. Turn right (east) on Rte. 102. The park office is located 1 1/2 miles east of Warner Bridge Rd.

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