Jami M.
Guide
GuideIonia State Recreation Area
Great get away
Clean, family friendly, beautiful. Take a walk through the equestrian to check out the horses.
Equestrian Camping near Holt, MI
14 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground accommodates horseback riding with miles of designated bridle trails through forested areas and around Lake Ovid. The park maintains separate equestrian trails that connect to hiking and mountain biking paths throughout the 2,600-acre property. Horse owners need to bring their own portable corrals or highlines as the campground does not provide permanent horse stalls or paddocks. The park enforces strict rules about containing horses properly at campsites and cleaning up manure. Rangers frequently patrol the area and enforce quiet hours and other regulations for all campers, including those with horses.
Located approximately 30 minutes from Holt, Sleepy Hollow offers both modern camping with electrical hookups and rustic options for equestrians seeking a more secluded experience. Trail riders can access more than 10 miles of designated horse trails directly from the camping areas without trailering to separate locations. The trails are well-maintained but can become muddy after rainfall. Water for horses is available at designated spigots, though riders should bring buckets for transport to their animals. The park does not sell feed or provide tack storage, so equestrians must pack accordingly. Camping with horses requires adherence to Michigan DNR regulations for proper containment and waste management. The park's combination of accessible trails and camping facilities makes it a practical option for horse camping within the Lansing area.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Holt (14)
1. Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground
"What can I say, I love the Michigan State Parks. I find they are the best, Sleepy Hollow is not different and it has so many things to do. "
"Quietly tucked into Clinton co Michigan. Sleepy is easily accessible. Its close to Lansing. There are shopping centers nearby. Country party store is closer!! Very large lake....Ovid is her name!"
from $20 - $160 / night
Check Availability2. Eaton County Fairgrounds
"Confidently located a mile outside of Charlotte, with all the conviences of restraunts, walmart, Meijer etc."
"Very convenient off highway with easy check-in and very quiet during the weekend when there are no events at the Fairgrounds"
3. Bishop Lake Campground — Brighton Recreation Area
"Campground Review: Bishop Lake is a great campground located in the middle of the Brighton Rec Area. The upper and lower campgrounds are both modern, with every site including electric."
"Great family place with paved and dirt biking/hiking trails. Very nice beach with grass and sand. There are 2 areas of inflatables, one of them is for the little kids 48 in. and under."
from $32 - $37 / night
Check Availability4. Sugarloaf Campground — Waterloo Recreation Area
"Lots of trails within reach and a horse riding stable if that is your thing. Heard lots of wolves, saw lots of tracks but no animals. I’d like to go back in the spring and hike around some more!"
"It is usually easy to get multiple sites next to each other with reservations.
There is a decent sandy beach here with a playground and volleyball net."from $35 - $160 / night
Check Availability5. Fort Custer Recreation Area
"The trails are great for hikers, bikers, & equestrians. We’ve had family camp outs there, as well my husband & I alone. It’s all dog friendly too! 🐕🐶"
"Several no wake lakes for kayaking, canoeing and fishing. One lake with swimming beach. Lots of trails for hiking, horses and mountain bikes."
from $21 - $108 / night
Check Availability6. Ionia State Recreation Area
"Take a walk through the equestrian to check out the horses."
"There is a disc golf course, mountain bike trail, equestrian trails, hiking trails, a beautiful no wake lake perfect for swimming, kayaking, or fishing. "
from $20 - $160 / night
Check Availability7. Hell Creek Ranch & Campground
"As an added plus a horse barn (Heavenly Horse Stables) right on property offering riding lessons, trail rides and meet and greets with their houses and other barn animals, my daughter wanted to move here"
"Direct connections to the Waterloo Pinckney trail system. Near Hell, Michigan and Chelsea, Michigan. Large pool in season. Priced reasonably."
from $20 - $35 / night
Check Availability8. Seven Lakes State Park Campground
"There are over 20 sites, about half of which are located lake side (not directly on the lake, but there are little paths that lead you there and you can somewhat see the water from these sites.)"
"Wish there was a few additional water filling points and that the dumpsters were all located near the camp entrance/exit. But really nothing to complain about. "
from $32 - $37 / night
Check Availability9. Waterloo Recreation Area Cabins — Waterloo Recreation Area
from $100 - $108 / night
Check Availability10. Farmlane Campground
Drive Time
- 7 min from Lansing, MI
- 34 min from Jackson, MI
- 49 min from Ann Arbor, MI
- 50 min from Battle Creek, MI
Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Holt, MI
1 Photos of 14 Holt Campgrounds
Equestrian Camping Reviews near Holt, MI
165 Reviews of 14 Holt Campgrounds
- Joshua E.
TravelerIonia State Recreation Area
Great activities for outdoors lovers
Ionia has so many great outdoor activities for almost anyone. There is a disc golf course, mountain bike trail, equestrian trails, hiking trails, a beautiful no wake lake perfect for swimming, kayaking, or fishing. The beach is fantastic especially for little kids who might not be the best swimmers ready for Lake Michigan or lakes with lots of boats and waves to deal with. Nice and sandy and a nice store and ice cream shop at the beach.
The campground itself is very nice, but you may find the activities are a short drive away from your site to get there. The sites are all a little bit shallow especially if you have a larger travel trailer you may find it a bit tight. There is a great variety of shaded and sunny sites. There is only one bathroom for the campground so it can be a bit busy and it could probably use an update.
Mary T.
LegendSleepy Hollow State Park Campground
I know another great Michigan State Park
What can I say, I love the Michigan State Parks. I find they are the best, Sleepy Hollow is not different and it has so many things to do. I would advise if you want to camp there on a weekend to make reservations well in advance. We stay here because there are only 2 campgrounds in the Lansing East Lansing Area this being one of them and the other does not have all full hook ups and charges more. When we visit our daughter at Michigan State University this is the place we stay, 20 - 30 minutes into the University depending upon the traffic.
It has large wooded sites only electric but you can fill up the water at the dump station. Each site has a picnic table and Fire ring. Each campsite has a asphalt pad. They sell fire wood at the campground office. Bring what you need or you can go into St. johns to the Kroger or Walmart. they have 2 main camping loops with 2 loops in each of the main loops and a shower restroom in each main loop. The restrooms are very clean and kept up. I love the showers hot water and for me that is hot and great pressure, I could shower all day. Sure beats our shower in the RV.
The State Park is on Ovid Lake and it is a beautiful lake, great for fishing, canoeing, paddle boards, kayak, and swimming. they have a shelter for you if you have a big party.
They also have a group campsite and a picnic area for large groups. d You can also bring your horses go to the Equestrian area and unload and get on the trail.
You can rent canoes, kayaks, paddle boats and paddle boards. They also have a great play ground for the kids and a fishing pier. Bring Bikes or just hike on the trails and head down to the beach.
- Kristina P.Traveler
Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground
ok
quiet campground during the day, short drive to the beach, biking and equestrian trails available. loud around the restroom at night, cleaning crew came through at 10 pm.
- KKaren P.Traveler
Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground
Sleepy, as i call it...
Quietly tucked into Clinton co Michigan. Sleepy is easily accessible. Its close to Lansing. There are shopping centers nearby. Country party store is closer!! Very large lake....Ovid is her name! Offers many species of fish for catching!! There are fishing docks, ONE IS NOT VERY ACCESSIBLE TO NON AMBULATORY PERSONS !!! THIS ONE'S IN THE CAMP AREA! The path is nicely groomed. The bea h is a long way from the parking lot a d there is no beach access from camp. The park is usually a clean family place...but for really young children or elderly persons it may. Ot be your first choice. I live nearby and have camped there zillions of times. I love it and shower bouses in camp are clean! Friendly staff a d they ate SERIOUS about quiet time! Bug spray required !!
David F.GuideSleepy Hollow State Park Campground
Nature is where it's at
I frequent this park if I am camping or not. decent disc gof course and access to Lake Ovid is great, miles of trails to hike/bike/ride horses. Hosts are very friendly and is always a joy to talk with the rangers
- Diana M.Traveler
Fort Custer Recreation Area
Perfect for families
The trails are great for hikers, bikers, & equestrians. We’ve had family camp outs there, as well my husband & I alone. It’s all dog friendly too! 🐕🐶
- JJacob B.
ScoutSleepy Hollow State Park Campground
Best hiking trails within 1gour drive of the state capital
Fun backpacking trails best trails close to state capital
fishing ,boating, disc golf, horse and bike trails,
Geocaching available.
- NNick W.Guide
Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground
Disappointing
This was our last stop on a trip where we camped in 6 different Michigan State Parks. This may be an older camp or the DNR was trying to save money when it was built. Most electrical posts are designed to accommodate at least 2 adjoining lots, and as many as 4. This in itself is not a concern until you realize the posts are way too far away to reach without an extension. We tried several lots and couldn’t reach any of the outlets. We finally met a couple who saId they had extensions at the office. So, we finally got set up with an extension cord from the camp office and decided to walk to the beach. Our site was adjacent to the path leading to the beach so we figured we could use a little walk. The path led to another path that led to a parking lot for the beach. After crossing the parking lot we still had to cross a large yard/park that finally opened onto the beach on this small lake. It was all very scenic, but we weren’t expecting a major hike to get to the beach. Showers are nice. They also have a neat ice cream vending machine that I had to check out for scientific purposes only. For a Michigan state park we were quite disappointed.
Guide to Holt
Equestrian camping near Holt, Michigan offers access to over 12,000 acres of public recreation land within a 30-mile radius. The region's sandy loam soil creates well-draining trails that recover quickly after rainfall, making it suitable for year-round riding in most areas. Winter camping is available at select parks with temperatures typically ranging from 20-30°F from December through February.
What to do
Lake activities: 3 lakes within 15 miles of Sleepy Hollow State Park provide additional recreation options. According to Mike B., "The beach is pretty good for swimming. The bathrooms are clean and the showers were warm." Visitors can also find fishing opportunities as Michael P. notes, "Fishing is good here for some largemouth bass, and huge blueguils."
Mountain biking: Trail network connects to equestrian paths at Fort Custer Recreation Area. Bob B. explains, "Endless hiking trails and two lakes where you can fish, swim, and boat." The recreation area includes designated mountain bike trails separate from equestrian routes with Janet N. adding, "Lots of trails for hiking, horses and mountain bikes. Roads quiet and could easily ride your road bike to nearby bike paths."
Geocaching: Multi-terrain options for riders wanting alternative activities. Jacob B. mentions it's the "best trails close to state capital" with "fishing, boating, disc golf, horse and bike trails, Geocaching available." The area features over 50 registered geocache locations suitable for discovering on horseback.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer vegetative screening. Nathan V. describes Sleepy Hollow: "Campsites are decent sized, can fit probably 3 four person tents per site, which includes a concrete firepit and picnic table." At Fort Custer Recreation Area, sites have "lots of growth" according to Nellie.
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution at several parks. Janet N. shares: "I loved the lack of lights in the park at night making for a beautiful night sky." Areas away from the main campgrounds offer the darkest skies for stargazing while camping with horses.
Trail access from campsites: Direct connections to riding areas without trailering. At Brighton Recreation Area, Brianna S. notes: "Large campsite with trees, lit path to the bathroom, and easy access to hiking trails and raft/boat launch." This accessibility extends to equestrian trails in many locations.
What you should know
Extension cords needed for electrical sites: Most parks require long cords. Nick W. reports from Bishop Lake Campground: "Most electrical posts are designed to accommodate at least 2 adjoining lots, and as many as 4. This in itself is not a concern until you realize the posts are way too far away to reach without an extension."
Seasonal challenges: Spring can bring muddy conditions on trails. Mike W. observed: "The firepit was surrounded by water, and our site really only had dry space for one tent." Horse riders should check trail conditions with rangers before heading out.
Weather monitoring important: Storms can develop quickly in summer months. Amy D. shares from her trip: "We stayed during very hot weather at the beginning of July 2020. I wanted to visit Potter Park Zoo so we choose to stay at Sleepy Hollow for a few days. Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Some require walking from campground at Seven Lakes State Park Campground. Ricky C. notes: "Nice beach but you have to walk a short distance to get there. Bathrooms are clean, paved roads and grass sites." Families with horses should plan accordingly when wanting both beach access and equestrian facilities.
Halloween events: Popular seasonal activities require advance planning. Stephanie C. advises: "Every year they put together an awesome Halloween trick or treat weekend, but be sure to book the day of six months before because otherwise you will not get a site."
Playground facilities: Available at multiple parks within trail riding distance. Melissa M. explains that Brighton Recreation "offers all types of camping" and has "a lot of trails for biking and hiking." She adds that "the lake has water activities you can pay extra for if you would like to do that."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Bring blocks for uneven sites at Hell Creek Ranch & Campground. Julie B. reports: "Mostly RV however tents are allowed. Pool, showers, restrooms are very clean, they have full hook ups at most sites or at least your electric and water." This is important for horse trailers with living quarters.
Dumping facilities: Plan for potential wait times during peak periods. Bob B. warns: "Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long." This is especially relevant for extended stays with horses requiring regular waste management.
Electrical system limitations: High usage may cause problems in heat. Amy D. cautions: "We had to run the ac which is unusual for us in Michigan. We were in the midst of a heat-wave though and it was much appreciated. The park needs to upgrade the electrical system as this was putting a strain on their electrical equipment."
Frequently Asked Questions
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campsite near Holt, MI?
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Holt, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Holt, MI is Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 32 reviews.
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equestrian camping near
Holt, MI?
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Holt, MI?
TheDyrt.com has all 14 equestrian camping locations near Holt, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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