Hovey Lake Equine Trailhead offers primitive camping facilities specifically designed for horse owners in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Located within the Hiawatha National Forest near Grand Marais, this free dispersed camping area sits at approximately 850 feet elevation in a region characterized by mixed hardwood and conifer forests. The campground connects to an extensive network of equestrian trails spanning over 30 miles through varied terrain including wetlands, forested hills, and small lakes.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Hovey Lake trail system provides multiple loop options ranging from 5-15 miles in length. At Jack Pine Lodge and Campground, located about 30 miles southwest, visitors appreciate similar forest access. "The U.P. has so much to offer if you're into the great outdoors. Jack Pine is a small campground in the Hiawatha National Forest. It's a big attraction for Quads and dirt bikes during the summer and I'm told snowmobiles, during the winter," notes Lora H.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings offer opportunities to see white-tailed deer, porcupines, and various bird species. The Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping area, approximately 15 miles south, provides similar wildlife encounters. "Just want an overnight stay and are self contained it's perfect. We pulled in a 15 foot trailer and turned it around but wouldn't go much bigger," reports Naomi L.
Waterfall exploration: Tahquamenon Falls State Park lies approximately 35 miles east of Grand Marais and features Michigan's largest waterfall with a 50-foot drop. "The semi modern campground is great secluded and great views of sunsets on the river. Not far from the falls, whitefish point, with a boat launch right across the street," writes Al C.
What campers like
Secluded atmosphere: Equestrian camping near Grand Marais offers quiet surroundings with minimal crowds compared to developed campgrounds. At Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite, campers find similar seclusion. "Great site located between two lakes. In response to the previous review, your best directions will come from locating the site on your GPS (in our case Google Maps) and dropping a pin. That took us straight to the location no problem," explains Ben L.
Direct trail access: Horse owners appreciate being able to ride directly from their campsite without trailering. The Newberry Campground offers comparable convenience for ATV riders. "Easy drive to the falls, nice clean grounds, and right next to ATV trails," says David N.
Self-sufficient setup: Experienced equestrians value the primitive nature that allows for customized camping arrangements. One camper at Catchin' Crickets noted: "Clean, sites are level. I was charged $45 for a site with electricity. A site without is $35 or at least this is what I was asked to pay. Host is friendly."
What you should know
No drinking water available: Visitors must bring all water for themselves and their horses, with typical requirements being 5-10 gallons per horse per day. The closest potable water source is in Grand Marais, approximately 8 miles away.
Toilet facilities limited: The trailhead features vault toilets but no other bathroom amenities. For comparison, Tahquamenon Falls State Park offers more facilities. "Michigan State parks earn extra marks for their recycling: paper, plastic, aluminum, and best of all - propane canisters. I wasn't sure what 'returnables' meant so it might be good to explain. Sites were generous in size but the interior ones did not have any privacy separation," observes Lee D.
Seasonal access considerations: Spring conditions (April-May) often include muddy trails and limited access. Summer brings stable footing but increased insects, while fall (September-October) offers comfortable temperatures and fewer bugs but earlier nightfall.
Tips for camping with families
Safety preparation: When horse camping with children, bring high-visibility vests for young riders and establish clear boundaries around horse areas. Willow M. at Ironjaw Lake notes similar preparation needs: "We did have to clear a bunch of down trees to get down the road but we had the site and the lakes to ourselves. It was gorgeous."
Entertainment options: Pack cards, binoculars, and field guides as there's no electricity for electronic entertainment. Many families at nearby campgrounds report similar needs. "We loved staying at Tahquamenon Falls State Park hiking along the river between the falls was great and it was total worth the extra few dollars to rent a boat and row out to the island," shares Bryan T.
Temperature planning: Nighttime temperatures in the Upper Peninsula can drop below 50°F even in summer; pack extra layers for children. During June-August, daytime temperatures typically range from 65-80°F.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: The equestrian camping area near Hovey Lake can accommodate smaller trailers and RVs under 30 feet in length. Larger rigs may have difficulty with turnaround space and low-hanging branches.
Leveling requirements: Bring extra leveling blocks as sites can have uneven terrain. At nearby locations, campers report similar needs. "We were able to back our 26 foot travel trailer in and stay hooked up to it. There was only 1 car drive by in 2 days," reports Tim from Hickey Marsh.
Generator etiquette: If using a generator while horse camping, maintain distance from other campers and follow quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM. Some nearby campgrounds have more specific restrictions.
