Equestrian camping near Huron-Manistee National Forests provides access to over 330 miles of trails across Michigan's lower peninsula. The forests encompass approximately 978,906 acres of public lands between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,300 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while spring and fall can bring unpredictable weather patterns that horseback riders and campers should prepare for.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: The Shore to Shore Trail offers direct access for horseback riders at Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp, connecting campers to a 220-mile route. "We stayed at this campground while doing the Michigan Shore to Shore Trail by horseback, therefore we were in the 'horse' portion of the campground. This campground had easy access to the water, and the restrooms were very clean," notes Judy B.
Kayaking on forest lakes: Several equestrian campgrounds offer water recreation opportunities beyond horseback riding. "The lake is great for kayaking or small fishing boats. Office staff super nice. Small, but nice beach," says Stacey R. from Turtle Lake Campground, which combines horse facilities with water activities.
Tubing on rivers: Scenic rivers near horse camps provide cooling recreation during summer months. At Scheck's Place State Forest Campground, "The river runs by and is awesome to go tubing down. There are trails that go through so if you are an equestrian this spot is perfect," says Gemma G.
What campers like
Spacious sites for horse trailers: Sites designed for equestrian camping provide ample space for both camping gear and horse equipment. At Manistee National Forest Marzinski Horse Trail Campground, "The campsites are all flat and quite large, being that they are meant to accommodate people with a horse trailer, and there are numerous hitching posts throughout the campground," explains reviewer evi L.
Quality water sources: Horse-focused campgrounds provide adequate water supplies for animals. "They have a separate equestrian camping area that have water and electric hookup sites," notes Chris R. at Turtle Lake Campground, which offers facilities beyond the basics for both horses and humans.
Privacy between sites: Despite accommodating large trailers, many equestrian campgrounds maintain good separation between campers. "Rustic campground with access to the Boardman river and many miles of trails in the state forest. Bring cash, no state park workers onsite, honor pay system. Lots of shade and when we were there not busy at all," reports Anna B. about Scheck's Place State Forest Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most equestrian campgrounds in the area have limited operating seasons. "We stayed July 2021 for an RV rally. We had no building of shelter for community gatherings. But, weather cooperated and we had a great time," reports Jim from Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds, which operates from May 16 to October 19.
Cell service variations: Mobile coverage can be spotty throughout the forest. "Spacious campsites with good visible/verizon service. We did not get service with T-Mobile," notes AbeAndMel_Vantravels about Manistee National Forest Marzinski Horse Trail Campground.
Self-registration systems: Many forest campgrounds use honor-system payment methods. "Rustic means vault toilets, no power and hand pump water. No reservations — FCFS," explains Jay F. about the facilities at Scheck's Place State Forest Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Combined horse/family campgrounds: Some locations cater specifically to families with both equestrian and non-equestrian interests. "Turtle Lake is a perfect mix of campers! Very family friendly, but spaced out well enough for privacy. They have a nice beach area and areas to fish. All sites provide a good amount of shade," shares Chris R. about Whiskey Creek Campground.
Dedicated activity areas: Look for campgrounds with designated recreation spaces for children. "Activities, trails, fishing, swimming or just relax! One of our family's favorite spots up north," says Jason S. about Whiskey Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Forest campgrounds provide excellent nature observation experiences. "Got here around 1730 on a Sunday. Have the whole place to myself. Not bad getting into, signal is poor. Lots of wildlife," reports Dexter V. about camping in the western section of the forests.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: Not all equestrian sites accommodate larger rigs despite their spaciousness. "We have a 28.6ft 5th wheel and had not problem getting in and parked! Management did an awesome job of spreading out guests until they were full," notes valerie C. from Manton Trails RV Park.
Utility connections: Water and electric availability varies significantly between equestrian campgrounds. "Power 50/30 were fine. Water is a shared spigot on most sites, but some sites have water. There is a good dump station. Sites are level. No landscaping," explains Jim about Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds.
Dump station access: Plan waste management carefully as not all locations provide full hookups. "We stayed here in our van and it was just what we needed. I wish we had a place to dump our grey water, but otherwise it was an easy drive in and had fresh water," shares Tobi W. about their experience at Manistee National Forest Marzinski Horse Trail Campground.
