Cedar River North State Forest Campground offers equestrian-focused camping in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Located about 35 miles northwest of Escanaba, the campground features forest service roads and rustic conditions typical of the area's northern hardwood forests. The remote setting attracts wildlife enthusiasts and horseback riders seeking quiet trails throughout the Escanaba River State Forest region.
What to do
Trail exploration on horseback: The Cedar River area connects to multiple trail systems for riders of different experience levels. A camper noted that "There is a set of mudding trails across the river with easy access, the sounds are not too loud," showing how motorized and non-motorized recreation coexist in the area.
Water recreation: Access points along regional rivers provide opportunities for kayaking and fishing. At River Park near Stephenson, visitors enjoy riverside camping. One camper shared, "We were able to kayak and fish along the river within view of our campsite. Some of the sites themselves are elegantly perched above the riverbank and give you a great view overlooking the mini rapids at the convergence of the river split."
Forest exploration: The dense woods surrounding Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. A camper described it as a "Great site located between two lakes," making it ideal for those seeking water access without developed facilities.
What campers like
Spacious sites: The equestrian camping options near Escanaba provide ample room for trailers and equipment. At River Park, a visitor noted, "Campsite 2 is amazing and has a path down to the river, which is so beautiful. Was very spacious and could fit a camper with a tent easily."
Privacy between sites: Jack Pine Lodge and Campground provides separation between neighboring sites. A camper appreciated that "the campsites are not on top of each other and there are trees between the neighboring campsite. They cut tress branches to clean open spots for RVs."
Clean facilities: Despite rustic settings, many campgrounds maintain serviceable amenities. One visitor to River Park mentioned, "Vault toilets were clean, centrally located and close to the hand pump well. Plenty of space at each of the sites."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many equestrian camping locations near Escanaba require navigating unpaved roads. At Swan Lake Campsites, campers should prepare for forest service roads that may become muddy after rain.
Limited cell service: Most remote camping areas have minimal connectivity. At Jack Pine Lodge, a visitor warned, "Don't expect any Verizon cell coverage here. Sites are nice and large, staff is friendly and the bar has good food."
Seasonal considerations: Spring and early summer bring significant insect activity. A Jack Pine Lodge visitor warned that "This year, the gnats were just about unbearable, but no fault of the campground (welcome to the UP)."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with amenities: When camping with children, choosing locations with basic facilities helps. At Washington Island Campground, "The campsites are in a beautiful forest, the showers were clean, the playground and mini golf weren't in great condition but my kids loved traipsing around in the woods better anyway."
Plan for weather variability: Upper Peninsula temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, even in summer. Pack layers and rain gear regardless of forecast.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forests around equestrian camping sites near Escanaba offer abundant wildlife spotting chances. One family at Washington Island "found lots of wildlife but the best was cute little tree frogs!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose carefully when bringing larger trailers to horse camping areas. A visitor to River Park cautioned, "I would not recommend this campground for anyone with a larger camper. I have a 38' long, 12'+ tall bumper pull and was scraping the roof on trees and struggled to get backed into the site."
Water and power limitations: Most equestrian-focused campgrounds have limited hookups. At Dispersed Camping Hovey Lake Equine Trailhead, campers must bring all water supplies and generator power if needed.
Access for horse trailers: Verify road conditions before arrival. Recent visitors recommend calling ranger stations for current information about muddy or washed-out sections that might challenge vehicles pulling horse trailers.
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