Equestrian camping near Newberry, Michigan presents challenges for travelers with horses. Located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula with elevations ranging from 600-1,000 feet, the Newberry area experiences humid continental climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The region sits at the gateway to Tahquamenon Falls State Park, though most local campgrounds don't provide specialized facilities for horses.
What to do
Explore Tahquamenon Falls: A 20-30 minute drive from Rivermouth Modern Campground offers access to this natural wonder. "We loved staying at Tahquamenon Falls State Park hiking along the river between the falls was great and it was total worth the extra few dollars to rent a boat and row out to the island," notes Bryan T.
Visit Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum: Located about 20 minutes from Tahquamenon Falls State Park. "20 minutes away is the Great Lakes shipwreck museum (if you're into history it's really cool)," shares Tom.
Ride ATV/SXS trails: The area offers extensive off-road vehicle trails with direct access from Jack Pine Lodge and Campground. "It has direct trail access from the property, and they provide a free ORV hand washing station and air for tires," explains Erika P.
Stargazing opportunities: The Upper Peninsula offers excellent dark sky viewing. "Beaver Island is a designated dark sky area and I've seen the aurora multiple times," reports Mike M., who stays at St. James Township Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain quality restrooms and showers. At Newberry Campground, Chris M. notes, "Lady at the office is one the nicest people I have ever met. Nice clean sites. A lot of pull through sites, and a lot of different style of sites wooded and grassy."
Family-friendly amenities: Newberry Campground offers recreation for children. "There's a playground a pool for kids. Large wooded sites and friendly staff," comments Hannah.
Restaurant access: On-site dining options save campers from cooking every meal. "The lodge has exceptional food and the camp store carries a little bit of everything," shares Nancy B. about Jack Pine Lodge.
Private campsites: Some locations offer more secluded options than others. According to Yetiman at Newberry Campground, "The staff was very friendly and they actually had campsites that were more private then almost all the Michigan state parks we have stayed at."
What you should know
No dedicated horse facilities: Horse owners must make alternative arrangements as none of the campgrounds offer corrals or equestrian-specific campsites near Newberry.
Cell service varies: Coverage can be spotty in this remote region. At Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping, Hunter W. reports, "Cell service with Verizon was shockingly good," while at Jack Pine Lodge, Hannah notes, "Don't expect any Verizon cell coverage here."
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close during winter. Newberry Campground operates "May 23 to October 15," while Rivermouth Modern Campground runs "April 22 to November 30."
Bug protection essential: The UP is known for its insect population. "This year, the gnats were just about unbearable, but no fault of the campground (welcome to the UP)," advises Lora H.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Catchin' Crickets Campground offers sites with electricity for $45 and without for $35. Though Arash F. notes, "Trees need some time to grow larger to provide any shade if anybody looking for a campsite with shade."
Kid-friendly activities: Newberry Campground features amenities for children. "They have a playground, playroom and a pool. None of this was open during our visit but I imagine in the summer it is all going strong and the kids have a blast," shares Yetiman.
Boat rentals: Consider water activities for family fun. Bryan T. recommends, "It was total worth the extra few dollars to rent a boat and row out to the island" at Tahquamenon Falls State Park.
Camp selection: Choose sites based on privacy needs. Kelli V. cautions about Newberry Campground: "If you happen to have a neighbor, you share campfire and picnic table space. Luckily enough, this place doesn't seem like it's ever THAT busy."
Tips from RVers
Site sizes vary: Check campground specifications before booking. At St. James Township Campground, campers can "Watch the sunset from your tent on top of a 40 foot over lake MI," says Casey B., but the space may not accommodate large RVs.
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easy access for larger rigs. Naomi L. shares about Hickey Marsh, "We pulled in a 15 foot trailer and turned it around but wouldn't go much bigger."
Hookup options: Jack Pine Lodge offers full services for RVs. "Most sites have water/sewage and 30 or 50amp service," notes Erika P.
Internet access considerations: For those working remotely, Chris M. notes Jack Pine Lodge has advantages: "WiFi is great, friendly people. Orv trails right on site super nice if you ride."
