Brighton Recreation Area offers year-round camping with sites that accommodate a range of recreation interests, though facilities specifically designed for horse camping near Howell, Michigan are limited. The area contains several interconnected parks with trail networks spanning wooded terrain and open meadows. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, while spring and fall can bring unpredictable weather conditions requiring additional camping preparation.
What to do
Horseback riding access: While Hell Creek Ranch & Campground doesn't have dedicated horse corrals, it offers connections to equestrian-friendly areas. "Direct connections to the Waterloo Pinckney trail system," notes one camper, making it convenient for those seeking horseback riding opportunities near Howell. Another visitor mentioned, "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."
Inflatable water park: Bishop Lake Campground features a unique summer attraction called Jump Island. "Such a cool place to enjoy with the kids, we had a blast at Jump Island!" shares one visitor. Another explains, "It's connected but costs money. $15 for a 45 minute jump session. Follow on Facebook for coupons."
Mountain biking trails: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area offers extensive trail systems for mountain biking enthusiasts. "Great hiking and world class mountain bike trails," reports one visitor. The park also includes "equestrian trails and I hear they have a remote control airplane field and shooting range."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Unlike the more open camping areas described elsewhere, Highland State Recreation Area provides secluded camping spots. "The sites are very private and spacious in the primitive camping area," notes one camper. Another adds, "Extra large camp sites, lots of room for the kids to run around."
Swimming options: Campers consistently mention water access as a highlight. At Seven Lakes State Park, visitors appreciate the "crystal clear, clean water, a good public beach." Another camper notes, "Sand Lake was our spot and the water was breath taking - it's a small pond really, but great for kayaking."
Clean facilities: Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern receives praise for its maintenance. "The property is very well maintained with a nice park and clean bathrooms," shares one visitor. Another adds, "It had a more modern layout that could accommodate many campers" and features "a beautiful bathhouse."
What you should know
Insect preparation: Bug protection is essential at several parks near Howell. At Brighton Recreation Area's rustic sites, one camper observed, "Everyone had screen houses set up" and recommends bringing "bug net hats" and "constructing an ultralight screen house that can be suspended from trees."
Site selection strategy: When booking at Waterloo Sugarloaf, a visitor recommends, "The trees offer shade, but are spaced out enough that a group can pull their campers around for privacy." At other parks, site selection can affect your experience significantly.
Weather considerations: Spring camping at Sleepy Hollow State Park can present challenges. One visitor noted, "The firepit was surrounded by water, and our site (142) really only had dry space for one tent." Others mention access difficulties during wet weather on unpaved roads.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly events: Seasonal activities make camping more engaging for children. Addison Oaks County Park hosts special weekends, with one family sharing, "It was a Boo Fest weekend. Lots of socially distanced activities for the kids and a scavenger hunt (finding clues on signs in park to solve a mystery)."
Playground access: Campgrounds with play areas keep children entertained. At Seven Lakes State Park Campground, families appreciate amenities like "a large playground and nice bathrooms." Another camper mentioned their children "just played in the water for three days."
Multi-generational appeal: Bishop Lake Campground has a tradition of family return visits. One camper shared, "I have been visited bishop lake family campground since I was a little girl. My mom brought us here every summer... We now officially have 5 generations of bishop lake lovers!"
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: At several campgrounds, electrical hookups may require planning. At Sleepy Hollow State Park, "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."
Site leveling: RVers at Seven Lakes State Park should note, "Sites tend to slope towards Sand Lake so have leveling blocks if that's important to you." This practical tip helps prevent uneven sleeping arrangements or appliance functioning issues.
Hookup availability: RVers seeking full services should consider their priorities. As one camper at Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern noted, "Nice flat campsites near the beach area," while another at a different park mentioned, "Absolutely love this place. Only downfall is no water hookups on site."
