Hell Creek Ranch & Campground provides direct trail access for horseback riders from campsites into the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail system. Located 25 miles northwest of Ann Arbor, this equestrian camping area sits on a large property that combines traditional camping options with specialized facilities for horses. The region features a mix of hardwood forests, open meadows, and wetlands across gently rolling terrain, with elevations between 850-950 feet. Trails remain accessible from April through October, with highest usage during summer weekends.
What to do
Trail riding access: Riders can access thousands of acres in the Pinckney State Recreation Area directly from Hell Creek Ranch's property. "Direct connections to the Waterloo Pinckney trail system. Near Hell, Michigan and Chelsea, Michigan," notes Jason F., who appreciated the strategic location.
Kayaking at Bishop Lake: Bishop Lake Campground offers water activities about 30 minutes from Ann Arbor. "The lake was nice but you have to walk a trail to get to it from the campground or drive. Nice walking trails. Our favorite was the lake for kayaking," shares Debra B., highlighting the accessible water recreation.
Mountain biking trails: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area features extensive trail networks for cyclists. "Extensive mountain biking trails and the lake is open to boating, kayaking, and other water sports," reports Mary H., who enjoyed the diverse outdoor options.
Jump Island water park: For families seeking structured water activities, the inflatable water park at Bishop Lake provides entertainment. "It's Connected but costs money. $15 for a 45 minute jump session. Follow on Facebook for coupons," advises Beth G., offering practical pricing information.
What campers like
Private campsites: Highland State Recreation Area offers secluded rustic camping spaces. "Extra large camp sites, lots of room for the kids to run around. Extensive trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding," shares Jennifer H., highlighting the spaciousness that many equestrian campers require.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention facility cleanliness at horse campgrounds near Ann Arbor. "The campground was full but quiet. The bathrooms and showers were nice and clean with hot water," reports Sam H. about Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, noting this important amenity.
Horse-friendly amenities: The accessibility to equestrian facilities draws horse owners to the area. "This was our first time staying here. Great private campground with rustic, elec, water/elec (30 amp), and concrete pad sites. Very clean campground with nice shower house," Jason F. says about Hell Creek Ranch & Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local animals. "We ran up on a group of probably 70 wild turkeys on the trail!" exclaims Adrienne C. about Highland State Recreation Area, describing the abundant wildlife.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Bug protection is essential when camping in this region, especially near water. "If you come in the summer, the bugs are brutal," warns Maggie M. at Seven Lakes State Park Campground, emphasizing the need for repellent.
Site selection for tents: Hell Creek Ranch accommodates tent campers, but with limitations. "Fine for RVs, not great for tent campers... as a camper, it was almost impossible to see anything natural around us since we surrounded by RVs and pop-ups," notes Chad B., providing perspective for non-RV campers.
Seasonal operation: Most equestrian campgrounds operate from April through October, with limited or no winter access. "Omg great family / kids time to unplug!! Tenting at its finest... No cell/internet service but that was perfect!!" shares Tammy P. about Highland Recreation Area.
Distance to amenities: At some campgrounds, facilities require driving. "Only drawback is the distance from the lake. The lake is not within walking distance, you would need to drive," explains Renee R. about Pontiac Lake Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Bishop Lake Campground offers swimming areas suitable for children. "Such a cool place to enjoy with the kids, we had a blast at Jump Island!" enthuses Jillian E., referencing the popular water attraction.
Pet-friendly options: Many campgrounds welcome four-legged family members. "Nice lakes for swimming and can take your pet as well! Big playground and nice bathrooms," says Mary O. about Bishop Lake.
Playground access: Dedicated play areas keep children entertained between trail rides. "Tons of trails for hiking and biking. They have kids activities on the weekends, a lake for swimming, great playgrounds and everything is really clean," reports Wendy K. about Addison Oaks County Park.
Family weekend events: Several campgrounds host scheduled activities. "It was a Boo Fest weekend. Lots of socially distanced activities for the kids and a scavenger hunt (finding clues on signs in park to solve a mystery)," shares Tim & Nancy C. about Addison Oaks County Park.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up locations: At some sites, electrical connections require planning. "If you are hoping to hook up to electrical, bring extension cords; some hook ups are exceptionally far away from the designated RV parking pad," advises Mary H. about Pontiac Lake Recreation Area.
Site privacy considerations: Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern offers varied site layouts for different preferences. "The trees offer shade, but are spaced out enough that a group can pull their campers around for privacy," notes Jonah H., highlighting the flexible setup options.
Concrete pad availability: Several campgrounds offer improved surfaces for parking. "Cement pads, water, and electric. Loop C is spacious with some trees," explains Ron E. about Addison Oaks County Park, pointing out the RV-friendly features.
Dump station access: Facilities for waste management are available at many locations. "Water hookup and dump on site," confirms Sam H. at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, noting this essential RV service.
