Equestrian camping near Ada, Michigan offers access to extensive bridle paths through Michigan's forested terrain. The area receives annual snowfall of about 70 inches, creating seasonal challenges for trail riding from December through March. Most trails remain open year-round, though early spring often brings muddy conditions requiring careful navigation.
What to do
Trail riding access points: At Fort Custer Recreation Area, riders can access the multi-use trail system with proper trail etiquette. A camper notes, "Roads quiet and could easily ride your road bike to nearby bike paths. I loved the lack of lights in the park at night making for a beautiful night sky."
Beach swimming opportunities: Multiple lakes throughout the equestrian campgrounds provide swimming access after trail rides. According to one visitor to Scalley Lake Park Campground and Cabins, "Private lake with no motors so it is very quiet and peaceful!!!" Non-motorized lakes ensure quiet conditions for horses.
Winter trail exploration: During winter months, some trails remain accessible for cold-weather riding. Pack extra water and supplies as some facilities reduce services. "There is a dumpster available in the busier parts of the season but this campground is open year round," mentions a regular visitor about seasonal changes.
What campers like
Private sites with natural screening: Many equestrian campgrounds feature sites with vegetation barriers between camping areas. One Duke Creek Campground visitor mentioned, "We found a campsite that was large with vegetation separating us from neighbors," creating privacy for horses and equipment.
Family-friendly horse activities: Campgrounds often schedule horse-related events for younger visitors. As one camper shared, "Your kids will LOVE this place-we had a blast! Train rides, Pool, Scavenger hunt, trails, bike rides, there just weren't enough hours in the day!"
Lakeside horse camping: Ely Lake Campground combines water recreation with equestrian trails. "We take the canoe with a trolling motor and hit that as well. Pet friendly. They have horse campsites and trails. Walking trails around the lake that offer nature at its purest!" reports a long-time visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak season (May-September), equestrian sites fill quickly. Many horse campgrounds near Ada require advance booking. "You can make reservations online ahead of time, or show up and find an empty site (but bring cash or check to pay because its a drop box)."
Trail markings: Equestrian paths typically use yellow markers on trees. "Just keep your eyes peeled for yellow markers on the trees (which are everywhere so you wont get lost)," advises one rider about following horse trails around lakes.
Weekend noise levels: Some campgrounds experience higher noise levels on weekends. "This place attracts a rowdy crowd and in the evenings (apparently there is no where else for the locals to have a rager). There is loud music, people yelling, fireworks going off," warns one camper about weekend conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly equestrian programs: Double RR Ranch RV Resort offers special riding programs for less experienced riders. "We enjoyed a reasonable trailride on horses thru a shallow part of the river. Very easy for inexperienced riders and kids," notes a family who visited with children.
Cabin options for mixed groups: For families with both riders and non-riders, cabins provide comfortable accommodations. "The cabins are clean and nice, the view of the lake is beautiful. My 6 children had a great time here," shares a parent who visited with multiple children.
Budget-friendly fairground camping: For families seeking economical options, fairground camping can provide basic services at lower rates. "Only $20 nightly, full hookup, nice wooded sites," mentions a visitor to Eaton County Fairgrounds, noting its proximity to town conveniences.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only considerations: Many horse campgrounds offer limited hookups. "Sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," cautions one RVer about facilities at certain campgrounds, suggesting bringing additional water supplies.
Trailer parking dimensions: Equestrian sites typically provide larger parking areas for horse trailers, but interior roads may present challenges. "The 'roads' inside the campground are tight so think twice before bringing the longer 5th wheels," advises a regular camper familiar with site layouts.
Generator requirements: At rustic horse campgrounds without electrical hookups, generators become essential. "Can run your generator (inverter type is best). Solar is a negative due to tree cover," explains an experienced equestrian camper about power management strategies.
