The Harrietta area of Michigan offers camping opportunities within Manistee National Forest and nearby state lands. Located in Wexford County at approximately 1,250 feet elevation, the region features mixed hardwood forests and waterways ideal for summer recreation. Horse-friendly camping facilities are available from May through October, with most equestrian sites closing after Labor Day.
What to do
Fishing on Turtle Lake: This family-friendly lake at Turtle Lake Campground provides great fishing options. "The lake is great for kayaking or small fishing boats. Office staff super nice," notes reviewer Stacey R. Another visitor mentioned, "There is fishing and canoeing, fire pits and swimming in the lake."
Trail riding on Shore to Shore Trail: Horse owners can access Michigan's long-distance riding network from Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp. "We stayed at this campground while doing the Michigan Shore to Shore Trail by horseback," shares Judy B. Daily trail rides connect to major regional routes.
Tubing on Boardman River: Cool off during summer months at Scheck's Place State Forest Campground. "The river runs by and is awesome to go tubing down," says Gemma G. The wide, gently flowing river makes this a popular warm-weather activity.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: The campsites at Marzinski are designed for horse trailers. As reviewer Evi L. notes about Manistee National Forest Marzinski Horse Trail Campground: "The campsites are all flat and quite large, being that they are meant to accommodate people with a horse trailer, and there are numerous hitching posts throughout the campground."
Reliable water sources: Equestrian campers appreciate dedicated water access. "This campground had easy access to the water, and the restrooms were very clean," mentions Judy B. about Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp. The camp provides water for both horses and humans.
Room for privacy: Campers appreciate the layout of sites. At Turtle Lake Campground, "Very family friendly, but spaced out well enough for privacy. They have a nice beach area and areas to fish. All sites provide a good amount of shade," according to Chris R.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most equestrian campgrounds near Harrietta have limited seasons. "May 16 to October 19" is the operating window for Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds, making it important to plan visits accordingly.
Varying amenity levels: Facilities range from very rustic to more developed. "Primitive means vault toilets, no power and hand pump water. No reservations — FCFS," explains Jay F. about Scheck's Place State Forest Campground.
First-come, first-served sites: Many state forest campgrounds don't accept reservations. "First come first serve sites, but it's a super awesome place to go when everything else is booked," advises James H. about Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with designated play areas. At Manton Trails RV Park, Hotel & Campground, "Lots of things for the kids, basketball, volley ball, a beach area, pond with fishing... so much more," according to Valerie C.
Clean facilities: Families value maintained bathrooms. "The bathrooms were redone and are very nice!" reports Ann D. about Turtle Lake Campground, though she notes, "The thing I didn't particularly like is how close you are to other sites."
Grass vs. dirt sites: Consider surface type when camping with children. At Turtle Lake, one parent appreciated that "my children were not caked in dirt. While I understand that comes with the territory of camping, this campground provides a bit more of a grassy setting."
Tips from RVers
Large rig access: RVers should check campground dimensions before arrival. At Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds, "Power 50/30 were fine. Water is a shared spigot on most sites, but some sites have water. There is a good dump station. Sites are level," according to Jim.
Hookup availability: Many equestrian campgrounds offer limited or no hookups. "We stayed here in our van and it was just what we needed. I wish we had a place to dump our grey water, but otherwise it was an easy drive in and had fresh water," notes Tobi W. about Marzinski Horse Trail Campground.
Cell service considerations: Reception varies widely throughout the Harrietta area. "We did not get service with T-Mobile. It has a pit toilet, fire pits, and picnic tables," reports AbeAndMel_Vantravels about Marzinski Horse Trail Campground.
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