The Hungerford Recreation Area, located approximately 70 miles from Cannonsburg in Michigan's Manistee National Forest, offers over 5,000 acres of mixed hardwood forest at elevations between 900-1,100 feet. Winter temperatures average 20°F with summer highs reaching 85°F, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. The area's sandy soil drains quickly after rain, making trail conditions variable throughout the year.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The White River special area provides miles of bridle paths through diverse forest terrain. "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," notes a White River Campsite #1 visitor.
Fishing access: Hungerford Lake offers non-motorized water recreation perfect for anglers. An Ely Lake Campground camper shares, "The Lake is for non-motorized recreational use so it is mostly used for kayaking and canoeing and fishing. There is about a 1 mile trail that you can walk around the exterior of the Lake."
Seasonal activities: Fall provides optimal conditions for equestrian camping near Cannonsburg with reduced insect activity and cooler temperatures. "I went in November. Most campers were there on the weekend... A lot of horses and hunters. Price was good for electric and water. Nice for dog walking," reports a visitor at Timbers Edge Campground.
What campers like
Rustic camping experience: The primitive nature of sites appeals to those seeking authentic outdoor experiences. "Perfect unplugged campground with no electric, vault toilets. Beach front and small boat launch - no motors. We love it in the spring and fall. Bugs can be bad in busy season," notes a camper at Ely Lake.
Horse-friendly facilities: Many campgrounds near Cannonsburg accommodate equestrian needs. "We stayed here during their Equestrian Weekends several years in a row, great hosts and large lots make this place a nice hidden gem!" writes a Timbers Edge visitor.
Natural water features: Scalley Lake Park Campground offers peaceful lakeside camping. "Private lake with no motors so it is very quiet and peaceful!!!" shares one camper, while another adds, "The cabins are clean and nice, the view of the lake is beautiful. My 6 children had a great time here."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience weekend disruptions. One Ely Lake camper warns, "It is a wonderful experience until about 10:30 PM on Friday and Saturday night. This place attracts a rowdy crowd and in the evenings... There is loud music, people yelling, fireworks going off and... not very much sleep."
Limited facilities: Most equestrian camping areas near Cannonsburg maintain minimal amenities. "Dispersed camping and camp sites available. There are horse staging areas and hiking trails. The lake is nice, small enough for a kayak/ no motor boat," explains a Hungerford Lake visitor.
Seasonal variations: Weather impacts camping conditions significantly. Spring brings mud, summer brings insects, and fall offers ideal conditions with moderate temperatures (50-70°F) and fewer bugs. Winter camping requires cold-weather gear as temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer structured recreation. "Your kids will LOVE this place-we had a blast! Train rides, Pool, Scavenger hunt, trails, bike rides, there just weren't enough hours in the day!" shares a Duke Creek Campground visitor.
Cabin options: Consider cabins for family comfort. "The campground was great, and clean. The park was nice and so we're all the kid activities! The pool is very nice and the store is stocked nicely," reports a Duke Creek camper, offering an alternative to tent camping with children.
Water recreation: Lakes provide natural entertainment for families. "There is a river to explore and we always get a riverfront site. Rivers are just fun for fishing, throwing stones, canoeing," explains a visitor at Double RR Ranch, adding that they "enjoyed a reasonable trailride on horses thru a shallow part of the river. Very easy for inexperienced riders and kids."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose campgrounds that accommodate your vehicle size. The Eaton County Fairgrounds offers "full hookup, nice wooded sites" that can handle larger rigs, with a reviewer noting it's "very peaceful when there are no ongoing events."
Hookup availability: Many equestrian-focused campgrounds near Cannonsburg offer limited services. At Timbers Edge, one RVer notes they offer "electric and water. Nice size lots," though amenities are basic.
Access considerations: Forest roads require careful navigation. While exploring White River campground, one visitor observed it's "more suitable for tents or maybe small campers. 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."
