Equestrian camping opportunities near Honor, Michigan extend beyond the well-known facilities at Turtle Lake and Lake Dubonnet. The region's extensive trail networks connect through mixed hardwood forests and rolling terrain, with elevations ranging from 600 to 900 feet above sea level. Most equestrian camps operate seasonally from spring through mid-fall, with some facilities closing earlier depending on weather conditions.
What to do
Trail riding on the Shore to Shore Trail: The Michigan Shore to Shore Trail provides extensive riding opportunities connecting Lake Michigan to Lake Huron. At Scheck's Place State Forest Campground, riders appreciate the river access. "We stayed at the trail camp it is quiet with no hookups. You can take as much space as you need and there is access to the river," reports Gemma G.
Fishing from shore: Many equestrian campgrounds offer fishing opportunities in adjacent lakes and rivers. "The lake is great for kayaking or small fishing boats. Office staff super nice," notes Stacey R. about Turtle Lake Campground. For those seeking unique fishing experiences, be prepared for surprises as "when my kids went fishing, they pulled up large snapping turtles both times. A bit of a surprise to see their size!" shares Allison H.
Water recreation: Beyond horseback riding, many equestrian-friendly campgrounds offer water activities. "There is a boat launch right near by, but most of the sites have their own path right down to the water," explains Kate K. about Lake Dubonnet. For paddling enthusiasts, the area offers "a beautiful river running though it. It's fairly wide open, with trees around, but this was great as it made stargazing easy," according to Judy B.
What campers like
Spacious sites for horse trailers: Equestrian campgrounds provide ample room for vehicles and trailers. At 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," reports evi L.
Grassy camping areas: Unlike some dusty horse camps, several locations maintain grassy sites. Ann D. notes that at Turtle Lake, "What I liked best about this park was 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."
Rustic amenities: Campers appreciate the basic facilities available at horse camps. "Rustic campground with access to the Boardman river and many miles of trails in the state forest. Bring cash, no state park workers onsite, honor pay system," advises Anna B. about Scheck's Place. At Lake Dubonnet, campers find "Outhouses near each circle, spickit with really good water, hiking trails, boat launch and even a nearby island you can kayak to and let the dogs roam free!" according to Caryssa R.
What you should know
Registration systems vary: Some equestrian campgrounds require advance planning while others operate first-come, first-served. "First come first serve sites, but it's a super awesome place to go when everything else is booked," shares James H. about Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp.
Expect variable trail traffic: Trail usage fluctuates throughout the season. Emily V. notes about Lake Dubonnet, "Lots of traffic in the area through the night (ORV and mudding trucks)," indicating that riders should be prepared to share trails with motorized vehicles in some locations.
Seasonal availability: Most horse camps have limited operating seasons. Dalton B. describes Lake Dubonnet as "Rustic, cheap, horse friendly, out house, and pleanty of forest and lake to explore," but notes it's only accessible during warmer months. Self-registration costs around $15 per night at most state forest campgrounds, with payment boxes located at entrances.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some equestrian campgrounds include facilities for children. Ann D. mentions that at Turtle Lake, the campground "offers a nice playground. The bathrooms were redone and are very nice!"
Separate camping areas: Many campgrounds divide horse camping from regular camping. "They have a separate equestrian camping area that have water and electric hookup sites," notes Chris R. This arrangement allows families with children to enjoy both equestrian activities and regular camping amenities.
Kid-friendly water activities: Lakes provide recreation beyond horseback riding. Trish S. shares that at Manton Trails RV Park, there are "Lots of things for the kids, basketball, volly ball, a beach area, pond with fishing…so much more."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: While many horse camps are rustic, some offer RV amenities. At the Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds, "They have electric on all sites, both water and electric on some sites and a dump station. There's a bathhouse with limited individual showers," advises Lorie F.
Site selection for larger rigs: When bringing RVs to equestrian campgrounds, site choice matters. "Water is a shared spigot on most sites, but some sites have water. There is a good dump station. Sites are level. No landscaping," explains Jim about the Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds.
Seasonal considerations: RVers should note that many equestrian facilities close for special events. As Lorie F. points out, "Campground is closed July 28th - August 11th" at the Northwestern Michigan Fairgrounds during fair season. Similar closures may affect availability at other equestrian camping locations throughout the region.
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