Hungerford Equestrian Group Campsite accommodates horse owners with dedicated trailer parking and room for temporary corrals near Big Rapids, Michigan. The site connects directly to the Manistee National Forest trail system, providing access to bridle paths through diverse woodland terrain. Nearby equestrian camping options in Newaygo County offer alternatives for riders seeking facilities with varying amenities and trail access points. The region's sandy soil conditions create good drainage for equestrian camping areas but can be challenging during spring thaw periods.
What to do
Trail riding through federal lands: The Manistee National Forest offers extensive horse trail networks surrounding Timbers Edge Campground. "We stayed here during their Equestrian Weekends several years in a row, great hosts and large lots make this place a nice hidden gem!" notes Becky P. about Timbers Edge Campground.
Waterside recreation: Several equestrian-friendly campgrounds provide access to lakes and rivers for after-ride relaxation. "The lake is nice, small enough for a kayak/no motor boat, nice," explains Arron P. about Hungerford Lake Campground, which is located near the equestrian group site.
Seasonal group rides: Organized trail rides operate during peak seasons at designated horse camping areas. "General store, fuel on site small lake, park has a hilly layout. New showers in camping area, meeting area at club house hosts are excellent," reports Jeff F. about facilities at Whiskey Creek Resort, which accommodates horse riders.
What campers like
Spacious trailer parking: Equestrian campsites near Newaygo provide ample room for horse trailers and portable corrals. "Amazing spot away from the city! The owner of the place is very accommodating and pleasant to be around. Private lake with no motors so it is very quiet and peaceful!!!" writes Nolyn S. about Scalley Lake Park Campground which offers camping options near equestrian areas.
Forest access: Direct entry to trail systems without road travel appeals to horse owners. "Dispersed camping and camp sites available. There are horse staging areas and hiking trails," explains Arron P., highlighting the convenient layout for riders.
Trail variety: Mixed terrain offers options for different riding experiences and skill levels. "There are dispersed options as well as docked site. It's in a forest, so bring a compass if you plan to do some hiking," advises Vegan T. about White River Campsite #1, which connects to nearby riding areas.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Spring conditions can create muddy trails until late May, while fall offers optimal footing. "I went in November. Most campers were there on the weekend. Pit toilets, a pond, hot showers but shower room unheated, no dump station, nice size lots. A lot of horses and hunters," shares Sharon S. about Timbers Edge Campground.
Water availability: Bring containers for watering horses at camps without direct water hookups. "This is the White River special area of the Manistee National Forest. While there are numbered campsites, there are no facilities or amenities," explains Kendra H.
Reservation requirements: Group sites must be booked in advance during peak summer periods. "Got here around 1730 on a Sunday. Have the whole place to myself. Not bad getting into, signal is poor. Lots of wildlife," notes Dexter V. about Condon Lakes West area camping.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some equestrian areas include family amenities beyond riding. "Your kids will LOVE this place-we had a blast! Train rides, Pool, Scavenger hunt, trails, bike rides, there just weren't enough hours in the day!" recommends Becky P. about Duke Creek Campground.
Safety provisions: Bring portable fencing or stakes for creating safe separation between horses and play areas. "The campground was great, and clean. The park was nice and so we're all the kid activities! The pool is very nice and the store is stocked nicely," mentions Nicole C. about Duke Creek Campground.
Educational opportunities: Several horse camps offer beginner riding lessons during weekend events. "The best part about it was the on site horseback rides!" shares cheyanne P. about the activities available at Duke Creek.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose pull-through sites for large horse trailers with living quarters. "Some fun things for kids. Great pool, never seen a better pool at a camp ground comparable. Horseback riding was fun too," reports Josh N. about the Double JJ Resort, though noting "the campground I found to be tight, and it was hard to know where your site ended and other began."
Utility connections: Check power requirements for horse trailer amenities before booking. "Water and electric ports were shared on one site so other campers were constantly on our site hooking up and adjusting," Josh N. cautions about some campgrounds.
Maneuverability: Forest roads may have tight turns requiring practice with longer rigs. "The road seems a bit sketchy but should be okay for most vehicles," advises Kendra H. about accessing dispersed camping areas.
