Jami M.
Guide
GuideIonia State Recreation Area
Great get away
Clean, family friendly, beautiful. Take a walk through the equestrian to check out the horses.
Equestrian Camping near Freeport, MI
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground offers equestrian trails and camping opportunities near Freeport, Michigan. The park features designated horse trails throughout its extensive grounds, with miles of paths available for riders to explore. Campsites accommodate horses with ample space for trailers and equipment. The park maintains clean facilities with modern restrooms and showers for campers. Trails wind through diverse terrain including wooded areas and open fields, providing varied riding experiences for equestrians of all skill levels. The campground remains quiet during daytime hours, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful horse camping experience.
Fort Custer Recreation Area provides another option for horse enthusiasts in the region. The recreation area includes designated equestrian trails and camping areas that accommodate horses and their owners. Large, private campsites offer enough space for horse trailers and camping equipment. The park features multiple lakes, extensive trail systems, and designated areas specifically for horses. Riders can access miles of well-maintained trails directly from the campground. The trails traverse through old growth forests and around scenic lakes. Horse owners should note that reservations are recommended during peak seasons as the equestrian sites can fill quickly. The campground enforces quiet hours and maintains a family-friendly atmosphere throughout the grounds.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Freeport (9)
1. Ionia State Recreation Area
"Take a walk through the equestrian to check out the horses."
"There is a disc golf course, mountain bike trail, equestrian trails, hiking trails, a beautiful no wake lake perfect for swimming, kayaking, or fishing. "
from $20 - $160 / night
Check Availability2. Fort Custer Recreation Area
"The trails are great for hikers, bikers, & equestrians. We’ve had family camp outs there, as well my husband & I alone. It’s all dog friendly too! 🐕🐶"
"Several no wake lakes for kayaking, canoeing and fishing. One lake with swimming beach. Lots of trails for hiking, horses and mountain bikes."
from $21 - $108 / night
Check Availability3. Scalley Lake Park Campground and Cabins
"Amazing spot away from the city! The owner of the place is very accommodating and pleasant to be around. Private lake with no motors so it is very quiet and peaceful!!!"
"The cabins are clean and nice, the view of the lake is beautiful. My 6 children had a great time here"
4. Double RR Ranch RV Resort
"We enjoyed a reasonable trailride on horses thru a shallow part of the river. Very easy for inexperienced riders and kids. It is close to a town to get take out food if it rains."
5. Equestrian Campground — Yankee Springs Recreation Area
from $20 / night
Check Availability6. Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground
"What can I say, I love the Michigan State Parks. I find they are the best, Sleepy Hollow is not different and it has so many things to do. "
"Quietly tucked into Clinton co Michigan. Sleepy is easily accessible. Its close to Lansing. There are shopping centers nearby. Country party store is closer!! Very large lake....Ovid is her name!"
from $20 - $160 / night
Check Availability7. Eaton County Fairgrounds
"Confidently located a mile outside of Charlotte, with all the conviences of restraunts, walmart, Meijer etc."
8. Ely Lake Campground
"No power motor lake but there is another lake close by that is. We take the canoe with a trolling motor and hit that as well. Pet friendly. They have horse campsites and trails."
"All rustic sites, horses welcomed, vault toilets, and water pumps. Pay for site by money drop in tube so bring your check book. The lake is great for kayaking. Miles of trails to wander and discover."
from $17 / night
Check Availability9. Duke Creek Campground
"Right across the road from Michigan's Adventure amusement park"
"Train rides, Pool, Scavenger hunt, trails, bike rides, there just weren't enough hours in the day! We should have reserved an entire week!"
Drive Time
- 30 min from Grand Rapids, MI
- 42 min from Battle Creek, MI
- 45 min from Lansing, MI
- 59 min from Kalamazoo, MI
Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Freeport, MI
2 Photos of 9 Freeport Campgrounds
Equestrian Camping Reviews near Freeport, MI
119 Reviews of 9 Freeport Campgrounds
- JJames K.
TravelerEly Lake Campground
Beautiful rustic sites with loud parties at night
Ely Lake Campground is a County campground in Allegan Michigan. All of the sites are rustic. Here are the bullet points:
- There are no bathrooms, just pit toilets.
- There is no electricity.
- There is a hand pump for water, although I would recommend bringing your own drinking water because the water from the hand pump is very discolored.
- Each site has a fire pit and a picnic table.
- They don't sell firewood, but you can by some in town on your way in.
- There is a beach.
- You can make reservations online ahead of time, or show up and find an empty site (but bring cash or check to pay because its a drop box).
- They have equestrian trails and sites.
First the positives: It is a beautiful rustic campground. We stayed on the side with sites 49-73 (specifically site 50) which has larger more secluded sites than the other side of the Lake. The Lake is for non-motorized recreational use so it is mostly used for kayaking and canoeing and fishing. There is about a 1 mile trail that you can walk around the exterior of the Lake, however it is ill defined in some places so just keep your eyes peeled for yellow markers on the trees (which are everywhere so you wont get lost).
This place also attracts a lot of equestrian campers and they have trails specifically for horseback riding. So if you have kids that love horses, you may see some on the weekends.
The negatives: It is a wonderful experience until about 10:30 PM on Friday and Saturday night. This place attracts a rowdy crowd and in the evenings (apparently there is no where else for the locals to have a rager). There is loud music , people yelling, fireworks going off and… not very much sleep. And I am not just talking about a few people with their music on -- it was someone blasting their sub-woofer with electronic dance music until 4:45 AM. It was really disappointing because otherwise the experience was positive. Luckily my kids are all deep sleepers so I was the only one who had to sit up all night.
They clean the bathrooms daily from what I can tell, but otherwise the campground is not maintained. There was trash around our site, and when you walk the trail about the lake you will see cigarette packets and beer bottles occasionally. Also along the trail were two massive hornet nests that really should have been removed by park management - but it's clear they don't ever maintain the trail.
If you're willing to overlook some garbage, and if the party people stay away you could have a wonderful camping trip. Allegan County has a beautiful natural resource here, but sadly it seems like it is being squandered, and wont last.
- Joshua E.Traveler
Ionia State Recreation Area
Great activities for outdoors lovers
Ionia has so many great outdoor activities for almost anyone. There is a disc golf course, mountain bike trail, equestrian trails, hiking trails, a beautiful no wake lake perfect for swimming, kayaking, or fishing. The beach is fantastic especially for little kids who might not be the best swimmers ready for Lake Michigan or lakes with lots of boats and waves to deal with. Nice and sandy and a nice store and ice cream shop at the beach.
The campground itself is very nice, but you may find the activities are a short drive away from your site to get there. The sites are all a little bit shallow especially if you have a larger travel trailer you may find it a bit tight. There is a great variety of shaded and sunny sites. There is only one bathroom for the campground so it can be a bit busy and it could probably use an update.
Mary T.
LegendSleepy Hollow State Park Campground
I know another great Michigan State Park
What can I say, I love the Michigan State Parks. I find they are the best, Sleepy Hollow is not different and it has so many things to do. I would advise if you want to camp there on a weekend to make reservations well in advance. We stay here because there are only 2 campgrounds in the Lansing East Lansing Area this being one of them and the other does not have all full hook ups and charges more. When we visit our daughter at Michigan State University this is the place we stay, 20 - 30 minutes into the University depending upon the traffic.
It has large wooded sites only electric but you can fill up the water at the dump station. Each site has a picnic table and Fire ring. Each campsite has a asphalt pad. They sell fire wood at the campground office. Bring what you need or you can go into St. johns to the Kroger or Walmart. they have 2 main camping loops with 2 loops in each of the main loops and a shower restroom in each main loop. The restrooms are very clean and kept up. I love the showers hot water and for me that is hot and great pressure, I could shower all day. Sure beats our shower in the RV.
The State Park is on Ovid Lake and it is a beautiful lake, great for fishing, canoeing, paddle boards, kayak, and swimming. they have a shelter for you if you have a big party.
They also have a group campsite and a picnic area for large groups. d You can also bring your horses go to the Equestrian area and unload and get on the trail.
You can rent canoes, kayaks, paddle boats and paddle boards. They also have a great play ground for the kids and a fishing pier. Bring Bikes or just hike on the trails and head down to the beach.
- Kristina P.Traveler
Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground
ok
quiet campground during the day, short drive to the beach, biking and equestrian trails available. loud around the restroom at night, cleaning crew came through at 10 pm.
Suzi K.
ScoutEly Lake Campground
Words Can't Describe
This is always my go to campground! All natural camping with plenty of nice people! One word of advise is to bring your own tp though lol they seem to always run out on Sunday mornings lol but are back up and running by mid afternoon. No showers and just outhouses but that's REAL camping right!!!? No power motor lake but there is another lake close by that is. We take the canoe with a trolling motor and hit that as well. Pet friendly. They have horse campsites and trails. Walking trails around the lake that offer nature at it's purest! I have been coming to this lake to camp for over 40 years and I hope I have 40 more years left!!!
- KKaren P.Traveler
Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground
Sleepy, as i call it...
Quietly tucked into Clinton co Michigan. Sleepy is easily accessible. Its close to Lansing. There are shopping centers nearby. Country party store is closer!! Very large lake....Ovid is her name! Offers many species of fish for catching!! There are fishing docks, ONE IS NOT VERY ACCESSIBLE TO NON AMBULATORY PERSONS !!! THIS ONE'S IN THE CAMP AREA! The path is nicely groomed. The bea h is a long way from the parking lot a d there is no beach access from camp. The park is usually a clean family place...but for really young children or elderly persons it may. Ot be your first choice. I live nearby and have camped there zillions of times. I love it and shower bouses in camp are clean! Friendly staff a d they ate SERIOUS about quiet time! Bug spray required !!
- Diana M.Traveler
Fort Custer Recreation Area
Perfect for families
The trails are great for hikers, bikers, & equestrians. We’ve had family camp outs there, as well my husband & I alone. It’s all dog friendly too! 🐕🐶
David F.GuideSleepy Hollow State Park Campground
Nature is where it's at
I frequent this park if I am camping or not. decent disc gof course and access to Lake Ovid is great, miles of trails to hike/bike/ride horses. Hosts are very friendly and is always a joy to talk with the rangers
Guide to Freeport
Fort Custer Recreation Area offers equestrian camping options about 30 miles southwest of Freeport, Michigan. The area sits within the Kalamazoo River watershed and features several no-wake lakes surrounded by mixed hardwood forests at an elevation of approximately 850 feet. Winter camping remains available with reduced services, though summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Fort Custer Recreation Area features multiple lakes for anglers. "There are several no wake lakes for kayaking, canoeing and fishing. One lake with swimming beach," notes Janet N., who appreciated the fishing options.
Mountain biking trails: Fort Custer offers dedicated trails for cycling enthusiasts. "We camped and rode (again) at Fort Custer. We've been here 2x before (once in a cabin and once in tents) and this has now officially become a favorite," shares Joel K., who specifically chose a site close to the biking trails.
Horseback riding: Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground provides extensive equestrian trails for riders. "There are a couple hundred sites and most of them were full. Our site was on the far end of a loop. This meant a longer walk to the restrooms and showers. On the other hand, we were right across from an access trail to the blue hiking trail," writes Art S., who enjoyed hiking the multi-use trails recommended by park rangers.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Many campgrounds near Freeport offer private sites. "We've stayed at both sites listed. 161 you do have neighbors pretty close, but we just stayed at 51 and it is extremely secluded! We had an amazing time tent camping it was so quiet!" reports Hannah about Fort Custer Recreation Area.
Lake activities: Ely Lake Campground provides a peaceful setting for water recreation. "The Lake is for non-motorized recreational use so it is mostly used for kayaking and canoeing and fishing. There is about a 1 mile trail that you can walk around the exterior of the Lake," explains James K., who enjoyed the natural setting despite some nighttime noise.
Affordable options: Budget-conscious campers have choices near Freeport. "This is a fairgrounds RV and tent park. Very peaceful when there are no ongoing events. Large bath house with Showers. No office in park, so find a space and park. The manager will stop by to collect your $20," shares Northstorm T. about Eaton County Fairgrounds, mentioning its convenient location near restaurants and shopping.
What you should know
Electricity limitations: Some campgrounds have limited electrical service. "Sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," notes VB S. about Fort Custer. At Sleepy Hollow, Nick W. warns: "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."
Weekend noise levels: Certain campgrounds can get loud on weekends. At Ely Lake Campground, James K. reports: "It is a wonderful experience until about 10:30 PM on Friday and Saturday night. This place attracts a rowdy crowd and in the evenings (apparently there is no where else for the locals to have a rager). There is loud music, people yelling, fireworks going off."
Seasonal considerations: Michigan's weather affects camping experiences. "We stayed during very hot weather at the beginning of July 2020... Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right. Because we didn't get any shade from the nearby trees we had to run the ac," shares Amy D. about her summer stay at Sleepy Hollow State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Duke Creek Campground offers numerous family activities. "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! We should have reserved an entire week!" exclaims Becky P., noting the campground's family-friendly atmosphere.
Beach access: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas for children. "Nice beach but you have to walk a short distance to get there. Bathrooms are clean, paved roads and grass sites," mentions Ricky C. about Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground.
Private lake settings: Scalley Lake Park Campground offers peaceful water access. "Amazing spot away from the city! The owner of the place is very accommodating and pleasant to be around. Private lake with no motors so it is very quiet and peaceful!!!" notes Nolyn S., highlighting the tranquil environment perfect for family outings.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord needs: Bring extra-long power cords at some campgrounds. At Sleepy Hollow, Nick W. advises: "Be sure to bring at least 100 feet of extension chord if you want electricity, because the power ports are not as accessible from some areas."
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on shade needs during summer. "The campground was nice, and clean. The park was nice and so we're all the kid activities! The pool is very nice and the store is stocked nicely," shares Nicole C. about Duke Creek Campground, though she notes that monitoring children might be necessary.
Dump station timing: Plan ahead for busy dump stations. "Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long. Sites are easy to get in and out of with RV/TT," advises Bob B. about Fort Custer Recreation Area, recommending early morning or late evening for shorter waits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian
campsite near Freeport, MI?
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Freeport, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Freeport, MI is Ionia State Recreation Area with a 4.1-star rating from 15 reviews.
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equestrian camping near
Freeport, MI?
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Freeport, MI?
TheDyrt.com has all 9 equestrian camping locations near Freeport, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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