Equestrian camping near Beulah, Michigan provides access to the western Michigan terrain characterized by rolling hills, mixed forests, and numerous lakes. The area sits at elevations between 600-800 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during peak camping season. Most horse-friendly campgrounds in the region maintain dedicated bridle paths connecting to broader trail networks within the surrounding state forests.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Turtle Lake Campground has a lake stocked with large snapping turtles that can surprise anglers. "When my kids went fishing, they pulled up large snapping turtles both times. A bit of a surprise to see their size!" notes Allison H.
Kayaking and canoeing: Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp offers watercraft access to its reservoir with unique paddling experiences. Kate K. reports, "Quiet, not populated, and beautiful views. I've solo camped here a few times and it's great for early morning paddles and peaceful relaxation."
Riding the Shore to Shore Trail: Scheck's Place State Forest Campground serves as a stopover point for riders traversing Michigan's cross-state equestrian route. "We stayed here for a night as we were traveling on the Michigan Shore to Shore Trail, the overall experience was excellent!" shares Judy B.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: Marzinski Horse Trail Campground includes large camping areas designed specifically for horse trailers. "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," according to evi L.
River access: Campers appreciate the waterway access at many locations near Beulah. At Scheck's Place, Anna B. mentions, "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."
Clean facilities: Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds maintains well-kept amenities during camping season. "Like new bath house, 7th nite free, rate $35, good location for northwestern Michigan sites. Water on all outside sites, interior sites share water hookups," explains Lon L.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most horse-friendly campgrounds close during winter months, with typical seasons running May through October. Specifically for family planning, the Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds notes, "Campground is closed July 28th - August 11th" during fair season.
Reservation systems vary: Several campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis rather than reservations. James H. notes about Lake Dubonnet, "First come first serve sites, but it's a super awesome place to go when everything else is booked."
Water access types: Manton Trails RV Park offers multiple water recreation options beyond just lake access. "Lots of things for the kids, basketball, volly ball, a beach area, pond with fishing," reports valerie C.
Tips for camping with families
Grassy sites for cleaner camping: Parents may prefer sites with grass cover rather than dirt surfaces. At Turtle Lake, Ann D. explains, "What I liked best about this park was that my children were not caked in dirt. While I understand that comes with the territory of camping, this campground provides a bit more of a grassy setting and offers a nice playground."
Proximity to attractions: Several campgrounds position families within driving distance to popular destinations. Jason C. reports, "Close to traverse city and sleeping bear dunes!" providing convenient access to major area attractions from Turtle Lake Campground.
Pet-friendly options: Most equestrian campgrounds welcome family pets alongside horses. At Turtle Lake Campground, Lindsey G. observed, "The area was filled with campers and RV's and everyone was SO friendly and the place was full of dog lovers."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most equestrian campgrounds offer basic services for RVs with some limitations. Ron S. notes about Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds, "Some sites are electric only, some include water. Not busy and quiet."
Level parking: Horse-oriented sites typically provide flat areas suitable for larger rigs. At Marzinski Horse Trail Campground, AbeAndMel_Vantravels states, "Spacious campsites with good visible/verizon service. We did not get service with T-Mobile."
Dump station access: RV users should note varying dumping facilities at horse campgrounds. Jim reports that Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds has "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."
