Highland State Recreation Area features over 5,900 acres of varied terrain for equestrian camping near Northville, Michigan. The rustic equestrian sites accommodate trailers with space for portable corrals and highlines. Campers have direct access to extensive bridle paths through woods, meadows, and around Haven Hill Lake, with connections to additional trails throughout Oakland County.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing: Brighton Recreation Area offers multiple water activities beyond horseback riding. "Large campsite with trees, lit path to the bathroom, and easy access to hiking trails and raft/boat launch," notes Brianna S. The park features clear waters for paddling and fishing opportunities.
Mountain biking: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area maintains extensive trail systems popular with cyclists. "This is one of the best areas for hiking and biking and kayaking and swimming," according to Christine A. The park offers trails of varying difficulty levels suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
Disc golf: Addison Oaks County Park provides recreational alternatives including a dedicated disc golf course. Joe S. mentions, "I enjoyed the trails, disc golf and overall wonderful Park staff! Extremely clean and well-kept." The course offers a full 18-hole layout through wooded terrain.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many equestrian campers appreciate the secluded nature of sites at Highland Recreation Area. At Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, campers note similar advantages. "The spots are all pretty private due to trees and vegetation. Nice fire pit. Water hookup and dump on site," reports Sam H.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. At Seven Lakes State Park, one camper notes, "Clean bathrooms and showers," though adds that "Trees and covered areas were skimpy - trees were still young."
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas around Highland provide opportunities for wildlife observation. Brett B. at Highland State Recreation Area describes it as "private, quiet, and full of wildlife," adding that the campground "has an almost magical feel to it."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the region operate on seasonal schedules. Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park closes annually from November through March, with one camper noting, "I arrived for a 2 week stay in the area on 11/12. I discovered this campground was closed for the season."
Equestrian requirements: Highland State Recreation Area allows portable corrals and highlines but does not provide permanent stalls. At Hell Creek Ranch & Campground, similar accommodations exist. Julie B. notes it's "Mostly RV however tents are allowed" and has "full hook ups at most sites or at least your electric and water."
Bug preparation: Several campgrounds in the area report significant insect activity. Ryan F. at Brighton Recreation Area warns, "The biggest problem was mosquito activity. The camping area sits on an inaccessible lake with a marsh area... everyone had screen houses set up."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Bishop Lake Campground offers family-friendly water activities. "This is a larger state park with full size sites for RVs. The beach is pretty good for swimming," reports Mike B., while another camper adds, "Such a cool place to enjoy with the kids, we had a blast at Jump Island!"
Playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. Mary O. describes Bishop Lake Campground as having a "Big playground and nice bathrooms," adding you can "take your pet as well!"
Biking opportunities: Family-friendly biking routes are available at multiple parks. Kim S. at Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern reports that her children "rode bikes around the loop and loved swimming and the playground. Facilities were nice and clean."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should carefully choose sites based on hookup placement. Mary H. at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area advises, "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."
Levelness considerations: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring preparation. Edward C. notes that at Seven Lakes State Park, "Sites tend to slope towards Sand Lake so have leveling blocks if that's important to you."
Full hookup availability: Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park offers complete services for larger rigs. David J. explains, "The staff is pretty helpful. They take you to the campsite and assist guiding you in. Full hook ups are available, as are partial h/I'd and tent spaces."
