Ortonville Equestrian Campground provides dedicated facilities for horseback riders exploring the recreation area north of Goodells, Michigan. The rustic campground sits at approximately 850 feet elevation in the rolling terrain of eastern Michigan. Trail systems connect to two lakes within park boundaries and traverse varied woodland landscapes typical of the region's mixed hardwood forests.
What to do
Trail riding: Access extensive riding paths directly from Ortonville Equestrian Campground where the staging area accommodates day riders. "The lakes and launches are however very nice and there are some great trail systems through the area," notes Kate K.
Mountain biking: Explore well-maintained biking routes at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, located within driving distance of Goodells. "Extensive mountain biking trails and the lake is open to boating, kayaking, and other water sports," shares Mary H., who appreciated the recreational variety.
Disc golf: Try the course at Addison Oaks where outdoor activities extend beyond equestrian options. "Disc golf course, and a lake for boating. The campground is RV and tent friendly and offers fire pits/picnic tables. The trails are well maintained and heavily trafficked," according to Kate K.
What campers like
Private campsites: Sites at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area offer good separation between neighbors. "The sites aren't super far away from each other but there are trees between sites so from most of the sites you can't really see your neighbors," reports Sarah P., who considers it her favorite in Oakland County.
Spacious layouts: Addison Oaks County Park provides room to spread out. "Loop C is spacious with some trees," notes Ron E., while another camper mentions, "Our spot #18 I felt was spacious and not too close to the people next to us and trees behind us. We had privacy and it was quiet."
Clean facilities: Horse camping areas maintain basic but functional amenities. "Clean campground and well maintained. Two different loops to choose from for camping," writes Renee R., though she notes the distance from the water is a consideration at some properties.
What you should know
Recreation pass requirements: Michigan state recreation areas require vehicle permits for entry, typically $9 daily or $34 annually for Michigan residents.
Seasonal considerations: Most equestrian camping facilities near Goodells operate from spring through fall. Oakland County Addison Oaks runs "late April to late October," with Richard T. noting, "The grounds are huge with bike/hike trails, a lake and a disc golf course. Mountain biking seems to be very popular."
Reservation system: Most equestrian campgrounds in the region require advance bookings, especially during peak season. "Very convenient now also with online booking," mentions Gary E. about Addison Oaks.
Water access: At many sites, "The lake is not within walking distance, you would need to drive," explains Renee R., which affects planning for those wanting to combine horse camping with water activities.
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: Covenant Hills Camp offers structured recreational options. "Lots to do for kids! They take very good care of this campground," shares Carol M., while another camper adds, "Lots of things to do. Climbing wall, zip line, swimming, fishing a lot of pike."
Family-friendly layout: Look for campgrounds with play areas. "Tons of trails for hiking and biking. They have kids activities on the weekends, a lake for swimming, great playgrounds and everything is really clean," according to Wendy K.
Weekend scheduling: Many campgrounds near Goodells offer more structured family programming on weekends. "Plenty of onsite activities on the weekend. Large play areas, dog run, basketball court, lots of walking trails, and family friendly," notes Andrew H.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At some campsites, electrical connections may be positioned far from pads. "If you are hoping to hook up to electrical, bring extension cords; some hook ups are exceptionally far away from the designated RV parking pad," advises Mary H., who stayed at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area.
Site surfaces: Many campgrounds offer improved parking areas for rigs. "Cement pads, water, and electric," mentions Ron E. about Addison Oaks County Park's amenities.
Sanitation facilities: Most equestrian campgrounds near Goodells feature basic services. "The bathrooms and showers were nice and clean with hot water," reports Sam H., adding, "Water hookup and dump on site."
