Equestrian camping near Indian River, Michigan offers access to extensive trail systems through northern Michigan forests. Located in the Pigeon River Country State Forest region, these campgrounds typically operate from April through October when temperatures range from 45°F-80°F. The area contains part of Michigan's extensive horse trail network with vault toilets being the standard amenity at most locations.
What to do
Explore sinkhole trails: Near Shoepac Lake State Forest Campground, campers can access unique geological features. "Sinkhole trails within walking distance, beautiful lake with some nice fish. I believe it is a no wake lake so it doesn't get too wild," notes Vaughn S.
Float the Pigeon River: The river provides calm sections ideal for tubing. "The river ran along the edge of our site. Highly recommend, but the current is strong so beware if you have little ones," warns Paul C. about camping at Pigeon River State Forest.
Dark sky viewing: Northern Michigan offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. "Beaver Island is a designated dark sky area and I've seen the aurora multiple times," reports Mike M. about St. James Township Campground.
What campers like
Secluded riverside camping: Pigeon River State Forest Campground provides sites directly on the water. "You can pick sites on the river or back by the woods. There are vault toilets and a well for water. The Shingle Mill Pathway runs through the campground," explains Lydia T.
Horse-friendly layout: The equestrian campgrounds separate horse and non-horse campers. "Non horse campers stay in lots 1-8," notes Lydia T. about Big Oaks Equestrian State Campground.
Proximity to multiple outdoor activities: Staying at campgrounds near water bodies allows for diverse recreation options. "My favorite thing to do is paddle my kayak out into the bay, anchor up, and sit for hours in the gentle waves reading a book," shares Mike M.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most forest campgrounds have minimal or no cellular coverage. "No cell service. Verizon is the dominant service up here. 0 signal," reports Dj W. regarding Walsh Road Equestrian State Forest Campground.
Distance to supplies: Remote locations require preparation. "Make sure you have all of your supplies before you arrive as the nearest town is 20+ minutes away. Bring a map/gps because there is not cell service," advises Aaron T.
Recent logging impacts: St. James Township Campground offers better natural surroundings than some other options. "Watch the sunset from your tent on top of a 40 foot over lake MI," says Casey B., contrasting with areas affected by timber harvesting.
Tips for camping with families
Select appropriate water sites: River currents vary in strength throughout the region. "Me and my son picked one of a few spots on the pigeon river. Highly recommend, but the current is strong so beware if you have little ones. I wouldn't recommend for 6 and under," cautions Paul C.
Consider campgrounds with activities: Gaylord KOA offers more structured recreation. "They had kids activities over the 4th of July weekend, and our kid loved it. The KOA is about a 5 min drive to Otsego Lake and the state park, where there's a nice beach and easy lake access," notes Kim L.
Check for tick activity: Some trails have significant tick populations. "The shingle mill pathway in Pigeon River State Forest was a nice, quiet trail. Went on a Thursday in June and saw 1 other person over 2 days. The only problem with this hike was the insane amount of ticks," warns Ian R.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Chandler Hill Campground accommodates larger vehicles. "Nice campground. The hosts were very nice. Clean pool. Recommend the on site ATV rental lots of trails to ride," suggests Brad F.
Surface conditions: Most forest campgrounds have unpaved access. "Sites not paved and entrance roads not paved!!!" notes Neil about Gaylord KOA, highlighting the typical conditions in the region.
Leveling requirements: Be prepared to level your rig at forest campgrounds. "Our site had a fair bit of slope side to side, which I mentioned to the person that led us to our site. He said they'd look into it," reports Ray & Terri F. about their experience with a 36-foot Class A at Gaylord KOA.
