Equestrian camping near Nunica, Michigan offers authentic outdoor experiences in the Allegan State Forest and surrounding areas. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources maintains several camping facilities with designated horse trails across relatively flat terrain averaging 600-800 feet elevation. Most equestrian-friendly sites in this region experience moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F with higher humidity levels in July and August.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: At Hungerford Lake Campground, riders can access miles of designated horse paths directly from their campsites. "Dispersed camping and camp sites available. There are horse staging areas and hiking trails. The lake is nice, small enough for a kayak/ no motor boat, nice," explains camper Arron P.
Swimming and paddling: Non-motorized lakes provide peaceful places for cooling off between rides. "The lake is for non-motorized recreational use so it is mostly used for kayaking and canoeing and fishing. There is about a 1 mile trail that you can walk around the exterior of the Lake," notes James K. about Ely Lake Campground.
Fishing spots: Many campgrounds feature lakes and streams with fishing access. At White River Campsite #1, campers can try their luck in the White River special area. "This is the White River special area of the Manistee National Forest. While there are numbered campsites, there are no facilities or amenities," reports Kendra H.
Disc golf: Some family-friendly campgrounds offer recreational activities beyond riding. "They advertise disc golf but there are only 2 baskets on the playground within a few feet of each other. Not an actual disc golf course," mentions Clint about Duke Creek Campground, indicating limited options.
What campers like
Rustic camping experience: Many riders appreciate the basic, authentic camping options. "This is our 'home base' campground. It's familiar. We've been coming here for decades. Comfortable, and quiet(for the most part)," shares TheSydliks about Ely Lake Campground.
Peaceful lake settings: Campers value the quiet waters for recreation after riding. "Perfect unplugged campground with no electric, vault toilets. Beach front and small boat launch - no motors. We love it in the spring and fall. Bugs can be bad in busy season," says Brad B.
Dispersed camping options: For those seeking more privacy, the national forest offers secluded sites. "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," notes Vegan T. about White River Campsite.
Nearby attractions: Some campgrounds offer convenient access to other recreation areas. "There is a river to explore and we always get a riverfront site. Rivers are just fun for fishing, throwing stones, canoeing," shares Joanie C. about Double RR Ranch RV Resort.
What you should know
Variable site quality: Site conditions and sizes differ significantly across campgrounds. "The sites were very small at this campground. Our fire pit was so close to our trailer we didn't dare use it," cautions Clint about Duke Creek Campground.
Primitive facilities: Most equestrian-friendly sites have minimal amenities. "Caveat: no electric, no running water, no sewer/septic, no dump, no fill... Can run your generator(inverter type is best). Solar is a negative due to tree cover," explains TheSydliks about Ely Lake.
Payment systems: Come prepared with appropriate payment methods. "Pay for site by money drop in tube so bring your check book," advises Ellen S.
Weekend crowds and noise: Some campgrounds experience disruptive activity on weekends. "This place attracts a rowdy crowd and in the evenings (apparently there is no where else for the locals to have a rager). There is loud music, people yelling, fireworks going off," warns James K.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Select campgrounds with appropriate recreation options. "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.
Cabin alternatives: Consider cabins for easier family camping with horses. "The cabins are clean and nice, the view of the lake is beautiful. My 6 children had a great time here," shares Nora M. about Scalley Lake Park Campground.
Weekday visits: For quieter family experiences, avoid holiday weekends. "I went here one holiday weekend, that was my 1st mistake...I ended up being kept awake by the drunks screaming at their kids," cautions j L. about their experience at Ely Lake.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with suitable swimming areas for children. "The pool is big, has a playground, a nice store on site with food, games, and camping equipment," notes cheyanne P. about Duke Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Larger rigs may struggle at some equestrian campgrounds. "Sites range from small tent sites to fairly large, but the 'roads' inside the campground are tight so think twice before bringing the longer 5th wheels," advises TheSydliks.
Water quality concerns: Bring drinking water supplies even when pumps are available. "There is a hand pump for water, although I would recommend bringing your own drinking water because the water from the hand pump is very discolored," recommends James K.
Generator options: For extended stays at primitive sites, plan power alternatives. "Can run your generator(inverter type is best). Solar is a negative due to tree cover," notes TheSydliks about camping at Ely Lake.
Weather considerations: "Perfect unplugged campground with no electric, vault toilets. Beach front and small boat launch - no motors. We love it in the spring and fall. Bugs can be bad in busy season," suggests Brad B. about the best times to visit Timbers Edge Campground.
