Manistee National Forest features extensive equestrian-focused camping options within a mixed hardwood and conifer forest environment. The region maintains dedicated horse trails across 20,000 acres of public lands with elevation changes between 800-1,200 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below 10°F while summer averages 75-85°F with moderate humidity levels.
What to do
Trail riding access: Equestrian trail networks near Whiskey Creek Resort connect directly to forest roads and dedicated paths. "General store, fuel on site small lake, park has a hilly layout. New showers in camping area, meeting area at club house hosts are excellent," notes Jeff F. about the Whiskey Creek Resort.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer lake and river fishing access within 10-15 minutes of campsites. At White River Campsite #1, Kendra H. explains, "This is the White River special area of the Manistee National Forest. While there are numbered campsites, there are no facilities or amenities. This is more suitable for tents or maybe small campers."
Swimming and water recreation: Small lakes throughout the region provide no-motor boating options. Arron P. describes Hungerford Lake Campground: "The lake is nice, small enough for a kayak/no motor boat, nice."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Horse-friendly campgrounds typically provide significantly larger camping areas to accommodate trailers. Cameron reports, "So this place is awesome, big time. There's picnic tables, fire rings, water available, a well maintained pit toilet, and 21 sites! The pine trees are amazing and the road in was super accessible."
Affordable options: Several campgrounds near Custer offer free or low-cost camping opportunities. "This established and well maintained campground is free, and you can stay up to two weeks," notes evi L. about their experience at a local equestrian campground.
Quiet environment: Many campers appreciate the lower usage rates at horse campgrounds. "Spacious campsites with good visible/verizon service. We did not get service with T-Mobile. It has a pit toilet, fire pits, and picnic tables," reports AbeAndMel_Vantravels about their stay at Timbers Edge Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many equestrian campgrounds operate from May through October with limited winter access. Vegan T. advises about dispersed camping: "There are dispersed options as well as docked site. It's in a forest, so bring a compass if you plan to do some hiking."
Cell service variability: Reception varies significantly by carrier and location. "Only a few other campers on a Wednesday night, including some people with horses, and all have been friendly," shares evi L., noting the welcoming atmosphere.
Water access: While most equestrian campgrounds provide water for horses, human drinking water may be limited. Tobi W. from Turtle Lake Campground mentions, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: First-time horse campers should consider established campgrounds with staff support. At Whiskey Creek Campground, Stacy H. confirms, "Friendly staff, made us feel comfortable being first timers camping. Very helpful!! Can't wait to come back!"
Activity planning: Bring entertainment options as dedicated horse campgrounds often have fewer recreational facilities. "Activities, trails, fishing, swimming or just relax! One of our family's favorite spots up north," says Jason S. about family-friendly options.
Pack for temperature swings: Summer nights can drop below 50°F even when days reach 85°F. Mario F. advises, "Was a quiet. Simple. Just with nature...Site was clean, across street you can buy firewood...Was a pleasant 2 night's....From site to the nearest store 15-20 min away."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose perimeter sites for maximum space when camping with horses and RVs. "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," notes one experienced equestrian camper.
Supply planning: The nearest stores are typically 15-20 minutes from most camping areas. Kendra H. explains, "Best access seems to be along 160th avenue south of Arthur road. The road seems a bit sketchy but should be okay for most vehicles."
Electrical limitations: Most dedicated equestrian campgrounds lack hookups, so prepare for boondocking. "We did not get service with T-Mobile. It has a pit toilet, fire pits, and picnic tables," reports a camper about the limited amenities at many horse camping locations.
