Equestrian camping opportunities near Frederic, Michigan extend beyond the three main campgrounds. This north-central Michigan region sits amid the Huron National Forest at approximately 1,200 feet elevation, with sandy soils and mixed pine-hardwood forests. Seasonal temperature swings can be dramatic, with summer highs in the 80s and winter lows frequently below freezing.
What to do
Trail riding access: The Pigeon River State Forest Campground offers direct trail access from campsites. "The Shingle Mill Pathway runs through the campground" and as camper Lydia T. notes, each site comes with "fire pit and picnic table" making it convenient for riders to set up camp and hit the trails.
River activities: Take advantage of the Au Sable River at Oscoda County Park where "you get the best views of the Au Sauble river for miles around," according to Max O. The park is conveniently located "right in the heart of Mio" and offers fishing and paddling opportunities within walking distance.
Stargazing opportunities: Scheck's Place State Forest Campground has minimal light pollution for excellent night sky viewing. Judy B. mentions it's "fairly wide open, with trees around, but this was great as it made stargazing easy." The lower elevation setting creates ideal viewing conditions when skies are clear.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: The equestrian camp at Scheck's Place State Forest Campground gets high marks for solitude. Gemma G. reports: "You drop your money in the box pick a spot of as much space as you want (there is hardly ever a lot of people)." This flexibility is ideal for horse camping with varying group sizes.
River access: Campers consistently praise the water access at multiple sites. Anna B. describes Scheck's Place as a "rustic campground with access to the Boardman river and many miles of trails in the state forest," noting it has "lots of shade" and wasn't busy during their visit.
Flexible camping options: Some equestrian camps accommodate non-riders too. As noted about Big Oaks Equestrian State Campground, "Non horse campers stay in lots 1-8," making it possible for mixed groups to camp together comfortably while accessing the trail systems.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most equestrian campgrounds have minimal amenities. At Walsh Road Equestrian State Forest Campground, Dj W. reports: "It was logged off and is essentially destroyed. I think there's 6 'sites' and an open field for equestrian activities." He also notes "no cell service" with "Verizon is the dominant service up here. 0 signal."
Water availability: Water access varies significantly between campgrounds. At 4-Mile Trail Camp, Lexi G. mentions "water pump and vault toilets" are available, while some sites require you bring all water needed for you and your horses.
Reservation systems: Most state forest campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. As Jay F. notes about Scheck's Place, there are "no reservations — FCFS," so arrive early during peak season (May-September) to secure your preferred site.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Look for river-adjacent sites with safe water access. Paul C. recommends Pigeon River State Forest Campground but cautions about water safety: "Me and my son picked one of a few spots on the pigeon river. The river ran along the edge of our site. Highly recommend, but the current is strong so beware if you have little ones. I wouldn't recommend for 6 and under."
Playground access: For families needing more amenities, Chandler Hill Campground offers recently updated play areas. Holly K. shares: "We've camped here for two years in a row and we LOVE it! Everyone is so friendly. Camp sites are nicely spread out and our 4 kids have a ball. They just updated their playground area as well!"
Bug preparation: Pack insect repellent as mosquitoes can be intense, especially near water. Halie C. warns about Pigeon River: "The best place to camp is right on the river which is lovely to fall asleep to at night. Beware of the bugs!"
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: While many equestrian campgrounds accommodate RVs, size restrictions vary. Lydia T. notes that at Pigeon River, "I've seen people tenting and I've seem people with large fifth wheels. Some sites are only big enough for tents but most sites can fit large rvs."
Water and dump stations: Most forest campgrounds lack hookups. For partial hookups, Gaylord KOA offers full-service sites. Debra S. mentions "Small sites but full hookups" and notes it has "easy access to Otsego state park and Hartwick pines state park."
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven ground at forest campgrounds. Ray & Terri F. report at Gaylord KOA: "Our site had a fair bit of slope side to side, which I mentioned to the person that led us to our site." Bring leveling blocks for comfort, especially at more rustic locations.
