Equestrian camping near Coldwater, Michigan offers access to diverse trail systems across southern Michigan and northern Indiana. The region features a mix of hardwood forests, prairie remnants, and wetland areas with elevation changes ranging from 800-1000 feet above sea level. Most horse-friendly campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October with some limitations during spring thaw when trails may become waterlogged.
What to do
Trail riding through multiple ecosystems: Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground provides nine interconnected lakes with shoreline riding opportunities. "I have stayed at this state park many times since I was little. There is so much to do. Between the hiking trails, boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and biking. You won't ever get bored," notes Amanda J.
Fishing from horseback: Several lakes at Fort Custer Recreation Area permit shoreline fishing with multiple species available. "Endless hiking trails and two lakes where you can fish, swim, and boat," mentions Bob B., who frequented the park during childhood.
Winter trail access: While most equestrian facilities close during winter, some trails remain accessible for cold-weather riding with proper permits. "Visited April 4, more people than I thought, but found a spot to be by myself," shares Rachel N. about early spring conditions at Pokagon State Park.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground offers tent sites with vegetation barriers. "Nice quiet campground with lots of wildlife. Tent lots are flat and a good size. RR and showers nearby," reports Karson G.
Spacious group areas: Larger parties with multiple horses can reserve designated group sites. "Stayed on a group site. As usual the group sites are much larger, and also more expensive. Group sites usually aren't too full so large space and few neighbors is always a plus," explains Ted C. about Chain O' Lakes.
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution provides excellent stargazing opportunities for campers. "I loved the lack of lights in the park at night making for a beautiful night sky," writes Janet N. about her experience at Fort Custer Recreation Area.
What you should know
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on proximity to trailheads and water access points. "We loved our site (so don't book this one) as it's close to the trails for riding. The campground was almost to capacity, but still some open sites," advises Joel K. about Fort Custer.
Weekend crowd patterns: Expect higher occupancy Friday through Sunday with holiday weekends reaching capacity. "It was Memorial Day weekend which could explain the noise/busy-ness. The RV sites have better bathrooms I believe," mentions Truly W. about Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground.
Seasonal trail conditions: Spring trail access often depends on rainfall amounts and drainage patterns. "The mosquitos are awful. The site was a decent size and had a lot of shade, which was nice," reports Sue M. about summer conditions at Fort Custer Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly horse activities: Pokagon State Park Campground offers supervised riding experiences for children. "Tons of things to do (playgrounds, lake, beach, hiking, horseback and pony rides etc). The lodge is a nice structure but the food we sampled was mediocre," notes Anand.
Non-equestrian alternatives: Plan activities for family members not interested in horseback riding. "Kayaking and the beach was a huge hit with the kids," shares Jeremy C. about Chain O' Lakes facilities.
Educational programming: Naturalist-led programs teach children about local wildlife and ecosystems. "We spoke with the naturalist and volunteered our time she was absolutely fantastic. I would definitely go back," reports Julie B. from her visit to Chain O' Lakes.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup considerations: Eaton County Fairgrounds offers affordable options for RVers. "Only $20 nightly, full hookup, nice wooded sites. This is a fairgrounds RV and tent park. Very peaceful when there are no ongoing events," recommends Northstorm T.
Dump station timing: Plan dump station visits for non-peak hours to avoid lines. "Sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," notes VB S. regarding Fort Custer Recreation Area facilities.
Site leveling requirements: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for proper RV leveling. "Sites are shorter and sometimes uneven. Bike trail, hiking trails, store, beach, inn, nature center," explains J C. about Pokagon State Park's RV accommodations.
