Equestrian camping opportunities are abundant near Grayling, Michigan, situated in the heart of Michigan's northern Lower Peninsula at an elevation of approximately 1,150 feet. The area features a mixed forest ecosystem dominated by pine and hardwood trees, with sandy soil conditions throughout most campsites. Cell service remains extremely limited at most locations in the Huron National Forest, with only occasional coverage available in higher elevation areas.
What to do
Trail riding access: At Luzerne Express Campground & RV, riders have direct access to Huron National Forest trails from the property. According to one camper, "Walk right off the campground into the Huron National Forest. There are horse pens available at the campground for overnight horse camping as well at a very reasonable rate."
Tubing adventures: The Boardman River offers great opportunities for water recreation near Scheck's Place State Forest Campground. A camper notes, "The river runs by and is awesome to go tubing down." The slow-moving waters make this ideal for beginners.
Mountain biking: The Shingle Mill Pathway runs directly through Pigeon River State Forest Campground, providing access to approximately 10 miles of trail loops. As one visitor explains, "The Shingle Mill Pathway runs right through the campgrounds which is ideal for hiking, backpacking, and mountain biking."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many equestrian sites offer substantial separation from other campers. At 4-Mile Trail Camp, "It's never busy here. I don't have horses but I've seen people stay with horse trailers with their tie outs to the poles that are designed for it."
River access: Camping along waterways ranks high for visitor satisfaction. According to a camper at Pigeon River: "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."
Stargazing opportunities: The limited light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. One camper at Scheck's Place State Forest Campground shared: "It's fairly wide open, with trees around, but this was great as it made stargazing easy."
What you should know
Payment systems: Most horse campgrounds operate on self-registration with cash payment. As noted for Scheck's Place: "Bring cash, no state park workers onsite, honor pay system." Typical nightly fees range from $15-20 per site.
Limited amenities: Expect truly primitive conditions at most equestrian campgrounds. At McKinley Horse Trail Campground, a camper advises: "This place is amazing if you just like to get away from everything... Highly reccomend for anyone looking to camp without ANY ammentities."
Water availability: While some campgrounds offer pump water, others require you bring your own. At Oscoda County Park, "No water at camp sites, but they have a water fill station. Nice quiet and relaxing right on the lake."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety awareness: Rivers near horse campgrounds require supervision. At Pigeon River State Forest Campground, a camper warns: "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."
Bug preparation: Insect protection is essential during warmer months. One camper at Pigeon River suggests: "Beware of the bugs!" while another visitor to the same area mentioned "the insane amount of ticks" encountered while hiking.
Alternative non-equestrian options: Families without horses have specific options at Big Oaks Equestrian State Campground. According to a review, this is "A horse campground located directly on trails. Rustic campground with lots of trees. Non horse campers stay in lots 1-8."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Large rigs may struggle at some equestrian campgrounds. At Pigeon River, a camper observed: "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."
Electric limitations: Many horse campgrounds lack hookups entirely. Those needing power should consider Manton Trails RV Park, where one camper with a larger rig reported: "We have a 28.6ft 5th wheel and had not problem getting in and parked! Management did an awesome job of spreading out guests until they were full!"
Road conditions: Forest service roads to horse campgrounds can be challenging. For McKinley Horse Trail Campground, a visitor warns: "Access is 4x4 only winter months." Spring visits often encounter muddy conditions requiring higher clearance vehicles.
