Equestrian campers exploring the Huron National Forest region near West Branch, Michigan can access several rustic campgrounds with horse-friendly amenities. The area features sandy soil terrain with a mix of hardwood forests and open meadows suitable for riding. Most equestrian campgrounds operate seasonally between April and November due to northern Michigan's harsh winters and spring thaw conditions.
What to do
Trail riding access points: Old Orchard Park Campground provides multiple entry points to local trails. "The park is very dog-friendly, which we appreciated. Nice large, woodsy, level lots. Many are waterfront," notes camper Tracey R., who stayed on a waterfront site.
Water recreation opportunities: Oscoda County Park sits along the Au Sable River with fishing access. According to Max O., "Love this park, right down the street from our family cabin and you get the best views of the Au Sauble river for miles around. Right in the heart of Mio."
Forest exploration: 4-Mile Trail Camp DNR connects to surrounding trail networks. "It's never busy here. I don't have horses but I've seen people stay with horse trailers with their tie outs to the poles that are designed for it. There's trails in the surrounding areas," shares Lexi G.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: McKinley Horse Trail Campground offers secluded camping spots. "This place is amazing if you just like to get away from everything. Surrounded by Huron and rarely many people there. Tons of privacy and more land to roam than you'll be able to," writes Juan A.
Direct forest access: Campers at Luzerne Express Campground appreciate immediate entry to riding trails. "The whole place is incredibly accommodating. Friendly, helpful staff. There is an array of sites available plus RV's and Cabins for rent so winter camping here is a blast," states Judy B.
Lakefront options: Old Orchard Park receives positive feedback for waterfront sites. "Beautiful wooded sights. Fishing, boat ramp, beach, wagon rides, hearts, cabins great place," mentions C P., highlighting the combined lake and woodland setting.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Equestrian campgrounds typically operate on weather-dependent schedules. Walsh Road Equestrian State Forest Campground runs from April to November while Big Oaks operates May through October.
Varying site conditions: Expect significant differences between campgrounds. "It was logged off and is essentially destroyed. I think there's 6 'sites' and an open field for equestrian activities. Very secluded. Nothing of interest in the nearby area," reports Dj W. about Walsh Road Equestrian State Forest Campground.
Limited amenities: Most equestrian sites provide minimal facilities. Vault toilets and fire rings are standard, but running water isn't always available. "A rustic campground with lots of trees. Non horse campers stay in lots 1-8," explains Lydia T. about Big Oaks Equestrian State Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: South Branch Trail Camp Group Site offers accessible spaces. "Site was large surrounded by tall pine trees. Picnic table was HC accessible. Fire pit ring," notes Sean R.
Safety considerations: Keep children away from horse areas unless supervised. At Old Orchard Park, "Got lucky enough to snag a week-long stay on a waterfront site the last week of July and thoroughly enjoyed our stay! We had very nice neighbors," reports Tracey R.
Space requirements: Reserve larger sites when traveling with both horses and families. "This campground is hard for me to review because this is one of my husband's favorites, but mine, not so much... first come first served... We have driven all the way there before and not been able to get in," warns Stephanie C. about Old Orchard Park.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Big Oaks Equestrian State Campground accommodates larger vehicles despite being rustic. "A horse campground located directly on trails. Rustic campground with lots of trees," mentions Lydia T.
Utility connections: Oscoda County Park offers electrical hookups but has limitations. "At the moment they have 50 or 20 amp power, so you will need a 15 or 50 adapter to use 30 amp service. No water at camp sites, but they have a water fill station," explains Gordon B.
Winter considerations: Some campgrounds remain open year-round with modified access. "Access is 4x4 only winter months," cautions Juan A. about McKinley Horse Trail Campground.
