Best Equestrian Camping near Petoskey, MI
The Pigeon River State Forest Campground provides rustic camping facilities with trail access for equestrians exploring the Petoskey area. While no dedicated horse corrals are available on-site, the campground connects to the Shingle Mill Pathway, allowing riders to access the extensive trail network throughout the 100,000-acre forest. Sites accommodate both tents and RVs with enough space for horse trailer parking. The campground features vault toilets, potable water from hand pumps, and picnic tables at each site. The campground's layout offers some sites directly along the Pigeon River while others are positioned farther back near wooded areas, providing options for horses to be kept at a distance from the water.
Trail riders access miles of state forest trails directly from the campground, with the surrounding Pigeon River Country State Forest known for its elk population and diverse terrain suitable for day rides. The North Central State Trail passes relatively near the area, providing additional riding opportunities. Water for horses is available from the river, though the current can be strong in certain sections. Sites are first-come, first-served with no reservations accepted. The campground operates seasonally from April through October. Equestrians should be prepared for rustic conditions as there are no showers or electrical hookups available. The remote location means limited cell service, requiring riders to bring maps for trail navigation and emergency preparedness when exploring with horses.
