Equestrian camping near Farmington Hills, Michigan offers access to over 30 miles of well-maintained bridle paths across multiple parks. The region maintains a moderate climate with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s and spring conditions that can be muddy along horse trails. Camping areas typically feature separate zones for equestrian use to maintain appropriate spacing between horse areas and regular camping zones.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: 26 miles of paths wind through Addison Oaks County Park, providing routes for all skill levels. According to Mary H. from Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, "Extensive mountain biking trails and the lake is open to boating, kayaking, and other water sports."
Swimming in crystal clear water: The region offers multiple lakes with designated swimming areas. Christine A. notes that Pontiac Lake Recreation Area is "one of the best areas for hiking and biking and kayaking and swimming," while Beth G. mentions that Bishop Lake Campground has "a nice area with shade trees beach and nice lake water."
Disc golf courses: Several parks maintain disc golf courses as an alternative recreation option. As one visitor to Addison Oaks County Park mentions, the park features "hiking and biking, disc golf course, and a lake for boating."
Explore historical sites: Hidden gems like old structures can be found on hiking paths. At Highland State Recreation Area, Adrienne C. describes discovering "Haven Hill deep in the woods on a trail. It was the Ford family summer getaway spot back in the 1930's and was shockingly burned down by a fire! There's still many of the walls and a beautiful fireplace remains!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between camping areas. Sam H. notes that at Pontiac Lake State Rec Area, "The spots are all pretty private due to trees and vegetation between sites." Similarly, Sarah P. adds, "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region supports diverse wildlife populations. Brett B. describes Highland State Recreation Area as having "an almost magical feel to it. It's private, quiet, and full of wildlife." Another camper at Pontiac Lake encountered "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."
Well-maintained facilities: Campgrounds in the area typically keep their amenities clean. At Bishop Lake Campground, Mike B. found that "the bathrooms are clean and the showers were warm," while Sam H. reported that at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, "the bathrooms and showers were nice and clean with hot water."
Spacious campsites: The area offers generous site dimensions. Jennifer H. from Highland State Recreation Area mentions "Extra large camp sites, lots of room for the kids to run around," which supplements the equestrian facilities.
What you should know
Distance to swimming areas: Some campgrounds require travel to reach beach facilities. As Renee R. notes about Pontiac Lake, "Only drawback is the distance from the lake. The lake is not within walking distance, you would need to drive."
Bug preparation essential: Multiple reviewers mention significant insect activity. According to Ryan F. at Brighton Recreation Area, "The biggest problem was mosquito activity... When we rolled in the first thing we noticed was that everyone had screen houses set up."
Extension cords needed: At some campgrounds, the electrical hookups may be positioned far from the designated parking area. Mary H. warns visitors to "bring extension cords; some hook ups are exceptionally far away from the designated RV parking pad."
Variable site privacy: While some sites offer good separation, others can feel exposed. As Kelsey P. observed at Seven Lakes State Park Campground, "the campground is horribly set up. The entire thing is wide open and there is little to no space between sites. No trees either to break up space between neighbors."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks maintain child-friendly play areas. Mary O. from Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern mentions "Big playground and nice bathrooms," while Kim S. adds that "the kids had a blast. They rode bikes around the loop and loved swimming and the playground."
Bike-friendly loops: Many campgrounds feature paved loops perfect for young cyclists. As Christie V. notes about Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, there's "Great hiking and world class mountain bike trails. Nice big lake."
Inflatable water features: Some parks offer special water attractions. Jillian E. recommends Bishop Lake Campground, saying "Such a cool place to enjoy with the kids, we had a blast at Jump Island!" Beth G. adds that Jump Island costs "$15 for a 45 minute jump session. Follow on Facebook for coupons."
Weekend activities: Check for scheduled events that appeal to families. Tim & Nancy C. share that at Addison Oaks, they experienced 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)."
Tips from RVers
Site surfaces vary: Different campgrounds offer varied parking surfaces for RVs. Sam H. notes that Pontiac Lake Recreation Area has a "nice site with blacktop pad and once parked felt very secluded," while Hell Creek Ranch Campground features "concrete pad sites" according to Jason F.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. Edward C. warns that at Seven Lakes State Park, "Sites tend to slope towards Sand Lake so have leveling blocks if that's important to you."
Hookup variations: Available utilities differ between parks. Martin W. notes about Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern that the "Only downfall is no water hookups on site," while Jason F. describes Hell Creek Ranch as having "rustic, elec, water/elec (30 amp), and concrete pad sites."
Dump station locations: Facilities for waste disposal may require planning. Pontiac Lake Recreation Area includes "Water hookup and dump on site" according to Sam H., making it convenient for extended stays.
