Equestrian camping experiences near Belding, Michigan offer multiple trail riding options in the central Michigan region. This rural area 30 miles northeast of Grand Rapids features a mix of woodland and riverside terrain with elevations ranging from 760-820 feet. Local campgrounds typically operate May through October when trail conditions are optimal for horse traffic.
What to do
Trail exploration by horseback: Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground features over 10 miles of designated bridle trails through varied terrain including hardwood forests and prairie areas. According to a visitor, the park offers "best hiking trails within 1 hour drive of the state capital" with "horse and bike trails, geocaching available."
Fishing opportunities: Away from equestrian facilities, Scalley Lake Park Campground provides lake access in a motor-free environment. A camper notes it's an "amazing spot away from the city! Private lake with no motors so it is very quiet and peaceful!!!"
Swimming and beach access: While horse facilities typically don't include swimming areas, some nearby campgrounds offer water recreation. At Sleepy Hollow State Park, visitors can enjoy the beach area, though one camper advises: "Nice beach but you have to walk a short distance to get there. Bathrooms are clean, paved roads and grass sites."
What campers like
Private wooded settings: Many equestrian-friendly campgrounds feature secluded sites. At Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground, a camper shared: "Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right."
Kid-friendly activities: Beyond horseback riding, Duke Creek Campground offers additional recreation. One visitor reported: "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!"
Clean facilities: Scalley Lake Park Campground maintains well-kept cabins and grounds. A visitor noted: "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
Electrical access considerations: At Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground, electrical hookups can be challenging to reach. One camper warned: "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 operation: Most equestrian facilities in the area close during winter months. The Eaton County Fairgrounds operates from "May 1 to October 1," while Scalley Lake Park Campground runs from "May 1 to October 1."
Payment procedures: Some smaller facilities have informal payment systems. At Eaton County Fairgrounds, a visitor explained: "No office in park, so find a space and park. The manager will stop by to collect your $20."
Tips for camping with families
Pack for variable weather: Central Michigan experiences significant temperature fluctuations, particularly in spring and fall. One camper at Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground noted: "We stayed during very hot weather at the beginning of July 2020...we had to run the ac which is unusual for us in Michigan."
Consider cabin options: For families new to horse camping, cabins provide comfortable accommodations. At Scalley Lake Park Campground, a visitor reported: "Great campground! Cabins, electric and bath houses!"
Plan for walking distances: Some facilities have spread-out amenities. A Sleepy Hollow visitor cautioned: "There is a beach and playground, but it is quite the walk from the campground. Plan to drive or bike ride if you have trouble walking long distances."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Duke Creek Campground, space can be limited. One RVer noted: "The sites were very small at this campground. Our fire pit was so close to our trailer we didn't dare use it."
Utility hook-ups vary: Eaton County Fairgrounds offers reasonable pricing for basic services. A visitor shared: "Only $20 nightly, full hookup, nice wooded sites. Very peaceful when there are no ongoing events. Large bath house with Showers."
Advanced booking required: For popular equestrian campgrounds near Belding during peak times, plan ahead. At Sleepy Hollow State Park, a visitor advised about their Halloween weekend: "Plan to book the day of six months before because otherwise you will not get a site."
