Hovey Lake Equine Trailhead offers free dispersed camping in a quiet section of the Hiawatha National Forest near Gulliver, Michigan. The trailhead serves as a primary access point for equestrians exploring the forest's extensive trail system. Located at approximately 850 feet elevation, the area experiences typical Upper Peninsula weather patterns with warm summers and significant snowfall in winter months.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The equestrian trails around Hovey Lake Equine Trailhead connect to the broader Hiawatha National Forest trail system, allowing for various route options. Riders can access multiple loop trails suitable for day trips or longer excursions through mixed hardwood forests.
Fishing access: The nearby Swan Lake Campsites area provides fishing opportunities for those wanting to combine equestrian camping with angling. Swan Lake holds bass, northern pike, and panfish, with shoreline accessible from several points near camping areas.
ATV and snowmobile riding: During winter months, the region transforms into a snowmobile destination. "Great campground! Book early to get a spot. It's clean, quiet and caters to riders... There is direct trail access from the property, and they provide a free ORV hand washing station and air for tires," notes Erika P. about Jack Pine Lodge and Campground, which is approximately 25 miles from Hovey Lake.
What campers like
Secluded atmosphere: Unlike other horse campgrounds near Gulliver, Michigan, Hovey Lake maintains a quiet environment. "The sites were nice enough, but the seasonal campers spread out a bit," mentions Kristen L. about her stay at Jack Pine Lodge, highlighting how space distribution affects camping experience.
Wildlife viewing: The forest setting provides opportunities to observe deer, small mammals and various bird species. "I heard a pack of coyotes at one point and pretty sure I heard some sort of padfooted animal walk by my site once or twice," shares Kevin D. about his stay at Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping, revealing the active wildlife in the region.
Dark skies for stargazing: The minimal light pollution around equestrian camping areas near Gulliver creates excellent stargazing conditions. "Beaver Island is a designated dark sky area and I've seen the aurora multiple times," notes Mike M. about St. James Township Campground, describing similar night sky viewing potential found throughout the region.
What you should know
Limited amenities: Prepare to be self-sufficient when visiting equestrian trailheads around Gulliver. "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," explains Naomi L. about Hickey Marsh, reflecting constraints similar to Hovey Lake.
Seasonal conditions: The area experiences significant seasonal variations. Spring can bring muddy conditions on trails, while summer often has biting insects. "I would warn though that the mosquitoes were pretty bad when we visited. Would still recommend for a quick stop over," advises Amy Y. about her experience camping in the region.
Navigation challenges: Forest roads leading to horse campgrounds can be confusing without proper directions. "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," suggests Ben L. about Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: When bringing children to equestrian camping areas, choose sites with natural boundaries. "I love that the campsites are not on top of each other and there are trees between the neighboring campsite. They cut tree branches to clean open spots for RVs," describes Erika P. about Jack Pine Lodge.
Activity alternatives: While horse trails are the main attraction, have backup plans for non-riders. "There is a playground a pool for kids. Large wooded sites and friendly staff," notes Hannah about Newberry Campground, which offers more developed facilities about an hour's drive from Hovey Lake.
Timing considerations: School breaks can bring more visitors to equestrian campgrounds. "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. There is a permitted site (May-Sept) at the end but multiple pull out spots for dispersed camping along the forest road," shares Willow M. about visiting Ironjaw Lake pre-season.
Tips from RVers
Rig size limitations: Horse trailer camping requires careful consideration of vehicle size. "We were able to back our 26 foot travel trailer in and stay hooked up to it," mentions Tim about Hickey Marsh, providing context for what size rigs can access similar forest campsites.
Parking constraints: Equestrian campgrounds typically have limited designated spaces for larger rigs. "Clean, sites are level. Trees need some time to grow larger to provide any shade if anybody looking for a campsite with shade. Reasonable good space in between sites," notes Arash F. about Catchin' Crickets Campground, highlighting considerations applicable to most camping areas in the region.
Resource planning: Plan for water needs of both people and horses. "I have traveled almost every corner of The Yoop. I have not found a campground (of the modern and resort nature) that nearly compares to this place. Not in quality of stay or the constant desire to return," shares Richie C. about the amenities at Jack Pine Lodge, contrasting with more primitive options like Hovey Lake where visitors must bring all needed supplies.
