Equestrian camping at Hovey Lake Trailhead provides a base camp for riders exploring the extensive trail systems throughout Hiawatha National Forest. The surrounding area contains over 880,000 acres of wilderness spanning both the Upper Peninsula's northern and southern shores of Lake Michigan. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing with summer highs typically ranging from 70-80°F, creating distinct seasonal riding conditions.
What to Do
Explore Lake Michigan shorelines: The forest contains over 100 miles of shoreline along three Great Lakes. Visitors staying at Jack Pine Lodge and Campground can access nearby trails. "In the middle of the National Forest, smack in the middle of the UP. Everything is about 45 minutes away, but you'll get an amazing night sky and great camping hosts," notes camper Simone N.
Visit nearby waterfalls: Multiple cascades dot the region within a short drive from most campsites. From Newberry Campground, visitors find convenient waterfall access. One reviewer mentioned, "Easy drive to the falls, nice clean grounds, and right next to ATV trails," according to David N.
Stargazing opportunities: The Upper Peninsula features minimal light pollution for exceptional night sky viewing. According to Mike M. who camps at St. James Township Campground, "Beaver Island is a designated dark sky area and I've seen the aurora multiple times."
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Many forest campgrounds offer substantial spacing. At Jack Pine Lodge, one camper appreciated that "the campsites are not on top of each other and there are trees between the neighboring campsite. They cut trees branches to clean open spots for RVs."
Multi-use trail access: Direct connections to trail systems for various recreational vehicles. Hunter W. notes about Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping, "Just off M-28, down the right side road a bit you will see campfire remnants and a spot where people tend to park on the left."
Wildlife viewing: The forest provides habitat for diverse animal species. At Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite, campers report encounters with local wildlife. "We were lucky, we went pre-season. 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," shares Willow M.
What You Should Know
Variable cell coverage: Service can be spotty throughout the forest. At Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite, one camper reported "no service with mint" mobile carrier, while another found "Verizon cell services was very good" at Hickey Marsh.
Weather preparedness: Conditions change rapidly, especially near lake shores. Pack appropriate gear for temperature swings and precipitation.
Seasonal closures: Many forest facilities operate on limited schedules. According to one visitor at Ironjaw Lake, "NOTE! the camp site is closed for updates until the end of October apparently."
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for campgrounds with amenities: Some locations offer recreational facilities. At Catchin' Crickets Campground, one visitor noted, "Clean, sites are level. I was charged $45 for a site with electricity. A site without is $35."
Consider cabin options: When weather turns challenging, cabins provide comfortable alternatives. Kelli V. shares about Newberry Campground: "We had a pull through site and a cabin booked. The pull-through sites are SMALL! Cabins were basic."
Check for playground availability: Some campgrounds maintain facilities for younger visitors. Hannah mentions that Newberry Campground has "a playground a pool for kids. Large wooded sites and friendly staff."
Tips from RVers
Road access limitations: Many forest roads pose challenges for larger rigs. Ben L. notes about St. James Township Campground: "Watch the sunset from your tent on top of a 40 foot over lake MI."
Limited hookup availability: Most forest service sites lack full connections. Prepare for self-contained camping.
Campsite size constraints: Verify your vehicle can navigate to and fit in your chosen site. According to Shawn T., at Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite, "Long nice road with a few pull offs once you are close to the end there is one official site with a table and fire circle."
