Courtney Lake Campground offers equestrian camping with dedicated horse trails in Ottawa National Forest, located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula where elevations range from 1,000 to 1,800 feet. The campground sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation and remains accessible from May through October, with peak camping season occurring during summer months when temperatures average 70-75°F during daytime hours.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Courtney Lake provides extensive riding trails connecting to broader networks throughout Ottawa National Forest. "Usually fairly quiet. Access road off highway is paved, unlike many other national forest campgrounds. Some sites are very spacious and/or on waterfront," notes Jerald W. at Courtney Lake Campground.
Hiking with pets: The forest trails welcome hikers with dogs. "We tented on lot 7 during the second week of June. It was very quiet. I was lucky to find this gem and you will only have spotty phone service at best. My dog had more fun than I did and we did a lot of hiking," shares Robert G.
Lake activities: Swimming and fishing opportunities exist at several campgrounds with waterfront access. "This place is fairly new and in excellent condition. It is well maintained. There are only a few sites and most are drive through. There is a beach on a 39-acre lake," reports Lynette J. at Torch Lake Campground.
What campers like
Secluded camping sites: Many equestrian and standard sites offer privacy within the forest. "Out of the way. Very private. Camped all the way in the back with only a few others in the campground. Would definitely be back to tent camp here," says Audra F. about Courtney Lake Campground.
Quiet weekday camping: Weekdays offer particularly peaceful experiences for horse camping. "Stayed at Courtney lake CG while bear hunting nearby. Very quiet during the week with some campers coming in on the weekend. Water and toilets were available directly across from the campsite. Was a relaxing two weeks with no disturbances," reports Nite H.
Well-maintained facilities: Campgrounds near Ottawa National Forest receive praise for cleanliness. "This is a great campground to get away too. Everything was clean and well kept. Host were great," says Larry S. about Torch Lake Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Fall offers special appeal for equestrian camping with colorful foliage. "Private sites, large, forested, near hiking trails and clean bathrooms. Fall colors are spectacular here! Eagle River is close by with charming shops and friendly locals," notes Jennifer S.
Insect preparation: Summer months bring mosquitoes to horse campgrounds near Ottawa National Forest. "Mosquitos are terrible in season, but that's not unexpected for the area," warns Jerald W. about Courtney Lake.
Limited connectivity: Cell service remains minimal at most forest campgrounds. Robert G. mentions having "only spotty phone service at best" at Courtney Lake Campground, making these locations ideal for disconnecting.
Tips for camping with families
Horse-friendly family sites: The equestrian camping areas accommodate both riders and non-riding family members. "The sites are large, clean, and quiet. I didn't camp in the equine section, but would love to bring a horse. The trail is well groomed and 5 to 6 ft wide. I will be back, and recommend this place to friends including equine friends," says Michele C. at Courtney Lake Campground.
Beach access for children: Some campgrounds offer lake beaches suitable for families. Torch Lake Campground provides "a beach on a 39-acre lake," according to Lynette J., giving children swimming opportunities between trail rides.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forest setting provides chances to observe native wildlife. While primarily visiting for bear hunting, Nite H. mentions the "relaxing two weeks" spent at Courtney Lake, where families can observe local wildlife from campsite areas.
Tips from RVers
Access road considerations: RV campers appreciate the paved access roads at certain horse campgrounds. Jerald W. specifically notes that the "access road off highway is paved, unlike many other national forest campgrounds," making Courtney Lake more accessible for horse trailers and RVs.
Drive-through site availability: Some campgrounds offer drive-through sites beneficial for RVs with horse trailers. Lynette J. mentions that at Torch Lake Campground "there are only a few sites and most are drive through," providing easier setup for RV campers with equestrian equipment.
Seasonal pricing: National Forest campgrounds offer discount options. Nite H. reports that Courtney Lake Campground pricing was "$14/day, but with Senior Pass cost was $7/day. Very reasonable," providing a cost-effective option for senior RVers with horses.
