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Rock Cut State Park Horse Trails

7318 Harlem Road
Loves Park, IL 61111
United States

Horse on Rock Cut State Park trail in early spring in Rockford, Illinois
Horse on Rock Cut State Park trail in early spring in Rockford, Illinois

Trails meander through native forests and restored prairies with the highlight being the Hart Rd. Grassland Natural Areas.  Over 100 types of wildflowers offer a showy display each spring and summer, while hardwood trees dazzle visitors each fall. Keep your eyes peeled for waterfowl, deer, fox, muskrat, woodchuck and beaver, opossum, raccoon and both gray and fox squirrel.  

Wide, well trimmed, grassy trails are perfect for beginning trail riders or big groups.

Horse trails are found only on the western side of the park in forest and meadow but it's a short walk down paved roads from the horse camp to the lakes for an afternoon swim to cool off while your four legged friends take a break back at camp.

Open Dates

April 1 - Nov. 30, closed during deer hunting seasons.

Season is strictly enforced and fines will be levied for out of season riders.

Distance and Terrain
14.0 miles
Camping
Yes.

Spaces:  40 Spaces

Cost: $8/night

Amenities: water,  primitive toilets

Reservations

Parking

Designated horse trailer parking

Additional Info

Rock Cut is an alcohol free park and campground.​​​​​​

Directions

For equestrian camp and parking, continue west from the main Rock Cut State Park Entrance on IL-173 to Perryville Road.  Take Perryville Road South to Hart Road.Turn East on Hart Road and the equestrian campground will be on the north side of Hart Road.

Trail Map
Contact Info