Fort Custer Recreation Area, located 60 miles southwest of Charlotte, Michigan, offers dedicated riding trails across 3,000 acres of mixed woodland and open terrain. The recreation area sits at an elevation of approximately 850 feet with temperatures ranging from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer. Trail conditions vary seasonally with spring bringing muddy sections that require careful navigation for riders and their horses.
What to do
Explore multiple lake trails: At Fort Custer Recreation Area, riders can access diverse trails connecting to several bodies of water. "Endless hiking trails and two lakes where you can fish, swim, and boat," notes Bob B., who describes the park as his "childhood place."
Visit nearby breweries: After a day of riding, equestrians can relax at local establishments. One camper mentioned, "We even visited Belle's brewery on our way home" after camping and riding at Fort Custer, making it a perfect addition to a weekend horse camping trip.
Enjoy beach activities: When not on horseback, Brighton Recreation Area offers water recreation options. "The lake has water activities you can pay extra for if you would like to do that," explains Melissa M., highlighting the versatility of the camping experience.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern offers campsites that accommodate horse trailers. "The camp sites were nice, there was a nice swimming area in crystal clear water and a beautiful bathhouse," writes Kevin C., though he notes "mosquitoes were pretty bad" in the evening.
Privacy between campsites: Campers appreciate the natural separation at many locations. At Waterloo, "The property is very well maintained with a nice park and clean bathrooms. The trees offer shade, but are spaced out enough that a group can pull their campers around for privacy," according to Jonah H.
Proximity to riding trails: Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground offers trail access for day rides. Nathan V. describes it as having "many options to choose from in terms of camping, from rustic, tent to fully functional cabin lodging," making it suitable for equestrians with different comfort preferences.
What you should know
Extension cords required: Some campgrounds have electrical posts placed far from actual sites. At Sleepy Hollow, Nick W. found that "most electrical posts are designed to accommodate at least 2 adjoining lots, and as many as 4. This in itself is not a concern until you realize the posts are way too far away to reach without an extension."
Seasonal insect concerns: Bug protection is essential, especially in wooded areas. "There are TONS of mosquitos," warns Rebecca M. about Brighton Recreation Area's rustic sites, suggesting that equestrians bring appropriate protection for themselves and their horses.
Variable electrical capacity: During hot weather, air conditioning use can strain campground electrical systems. At Eaton County Fairgrounds, campers find "only $20 nightly, full hookup, nice wooded sites" according to Northstorm T., but be prepared for potential electrical limitations during peak usage.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Many campgrounds cater to families with children. Kim S. from Hell Creek Ranch & Campground shared, "Spent 4 nights and 5 days camping with my husband and 2 kids. We had fun and the kids had a blast. They rode bikes around the loop and loved swimming and the playground."
Equestrian learning opportunities: Some locations offer horseback riding lessons for children. Ashley S. mentions that Hell Creek has "a horse barn (Heavenly Horse Stables) right on property offering riding lessons, trail rides and meet and greets with their houses and other barn animals, my daughter wanted to move here."
Pack insect protection: Screen houses prove essential for family comfort in wooded areas. Ryan F. observed at Brighton Recreation Area: "When we rolled in the first thing we noticed was that everyone had screen houses set up. We didn't have anything but our tent and a hammock with a big net so everyone got bitten up while cooking and hanging out by the fire."
Tips from RVers
Dump station planning: Fort Custer offers electric-only hookups, requiring use of the dump station. According to VB S., "Sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," suggesting RVers should plan water usage accordingly.
Site selection strategy: When booking at Waterloo Recreation Area, consider sun exposure. Beth G. notes about her experience, "Site was a little small for our 38foot - we had to go sideways which opened us up to other campers. Not my favorite."
Early arrival recommended: Particularly during peak season, arrive early to secure desirable spots at Eaton County Fairgrounds. "Pull in and pick your own site and the site manager will come by and collect your money for night stayed," explains Joann S., adding that the campground is "very clean and well organized."
Legend
