Ortonville Equestrian Campground accommodates various trailer sizes while providing direct access to the recreation area's extensive trail network. The trails connect riders to wooded terrain across the 5,400-acre property. Water for horses must be brought to the campground as no on-site sources are available at individual sites. The facility maintains vault toilets designed for equestrian campers and features designated trailer parking areas throughout the grounds.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The equestrian trail system at Ortonville Recreation Area offers routes through wooded terrain and past water features. "The lakes and launches are however very nice and there are some great trail systems through the area," notes Kate K.
Mountain biking excursions: Cyclists visiting equestrian camping near Avoca, Michigan can access nearby trails at Addison Oaks. "Addison Oaks is a campground that features hiking and mountain biking trails, campground, cabins, disc golf course, and a lake for boating," according to Kate K. from Oakland County Addison Oaks.
Disc golf course access: Horse campers looking for alternative activities can try disc golf at nearby recreation areas. A reviewer at Covenant Hills Camp notes they have "everything, store, ice cream shop, beach with small lake (with activities)," making it a good option for days when not riding.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the natural separation between camping spots at horse-friendly destinations. "The sites aren't super far away from each other but there are trees between sites so from most of the sites you can't really see your neighbors," reports Sarah P. about Pontiac Lake Recreation Area.
Wildlife viewing: Horse campers regularly spot native animals during their stays. According to Gary E. at Addison Oaks County Park, visits have "always been a great trip. Good sites I have stayed in both area B and C. Great hiking trails easy access. Friendly staff."
Trailer-friendly layouts: The equestrian camping facilities near Avoca provide adequate space for horse trailers. Karen C. at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area shared, "Our spot #18 I felt was spacious and not to close to the people next to us and trees behind us. We had privacy and it was quiet."
What you should know
Seasonal conditions: Trail quality varies throughout the year with spring often bringing muddy conditions unsuitable for certain types of riding. "Park is clean. Beach is a 1.8 mile hike from the East loop in the campground but is well worth the walk. (Trail is not stroller/wagon friendly)," warns Mary H. about Pontiac Lake Recreation Area.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be prevalent in wooded camping areas used by equestrians. "There are tons of mosquitoes and ticks, so make sure you bring bug spray. Also make sure that all food and garbage is secure at night, the raccoons have no fear," cautions Kristina J.
Electrical access limitations: Most equestrian sites have limited or no electrical hookups available. When hookups are available, they may be distant from parking areas. Mary H. notes, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds near the equestrian facilities offer structured activities for children. Tim & Nancy C. at Addison Oaks County Park shared, "We stayed in area A in a water/electric site. 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)."
Playground access: Families camping with younger children appreciate dedicated play areas. Wendy K. reports, "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."
Educational opportunities: Horse camping provides learning experiences for children. At D-bar-A Scout Ranch, Walker L. describes it as "another great scouting campground with cabins, rustic camping, tent sites, lakes, horses to ride, this is one HUGE camp ground for scouts to enjoy and learn."
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: RVers should prepare for distant electrical connections. When staying at horse-focused campgrounds, Mary H. advises, "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."
Site leveling challenges: RVers may find certain sites require additional equipment for leveling. Sarah O. notes about Covenant Hills, "I wouldn't say rustic but the sites can be a bit hard to get into. They don't level out very well."
Trailer size considerations: Larger RVs may have difficulty accessing certain equestrian camping locations. At nearby campgrounds like Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, campers report "Very nice sites. Wooded and up north feel. Great hiking and world class mountain bike trails. Nice big lake," according to Christie V.
