Dispersed camping options near Hovey Lake Equine Trailhead extend beyond the main site. Several Forest Service roads branch out from the trailhead area, offering additional primitive camping spots for equestrian campers traveling with larger rigs. The surrounding Hiawatha National Forest contains multiple equine-friendly camping areas within 30-45 minutes of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Winter access becomes limited as Forest Service roads receive minimal maintenance during snow seasons.
What to do
Trail riding network access: From Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping, riders can connect to multiple forest trails. "This is a great spot, very private and easy to access," notes Amy Y. The location provides convenient access to wider forest paths suitable for horses approximately 10 minutes from the main Munising area.
Lake swimming opportunities: Multiple small forest lakes provide natural watering spots for horses and swimming for riders. A camper at Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite reported, "Great site located between two lakes... Because the access to both lakes is near the camp site, we did encounter vehicles driving by, maybe 2 a day."
Snowmobile and winter trail conversion: During winter months, many equestrian trails transform into snowmobile routes. Winter campers should note accessibility changes. At Jack Pine Lodge and Campground, one visitor mentioned, "It's a big attraction for Quads and dirt bikes during the summer and I'm told snowmobiles, during the winter."
What campers like
Remote camping with vehicle access: Horse campers appreciate sites that balance seclusion with trailer accessibility. At Catchin' Crickets Campground, visitors note, "Clean, sites are level... Reasonable good space in between sites," which accommodates horse trailers without feeling cramped.
Cell service variations: Connectivity varies significantly across horse campgrounds. At Hickey Marsh, one camper noted, "Cell service with Verizon was shockingly good," while another camper at Ironjaw Lake mentioned, "No service with mint." This information helps equestrians plan emergency communications.
Natural containment options: The forest landscape provides natural barriers and containment solutions. "We pulled in a 15 foot trailer and turned it around but wouldn't go much bigger," reports Naomi L. about Hickey Marsh, indicating size limitations horse owners should consider.
What you should know
Seasonal bug pressure: Insect activity affects both horses and riders. The Upper Peninsula experiences intense bug seasons. "I would warn though that the mosquitoes were pretty bad when we visited," notes a Hickey Marsh camper, suggesting protective equipment for horses during peak insect months.
Weather impacts on forest roads: Spring thaw and heavy rain events can make access challenging for larger horse trailers. "We did have to clear a bunch of down trees to get down the road," reports a visitor at Ironjaw Lake, emphasizing the need for tools and preparation when accessing remote horse sites.
Limited water sources: Few established horse campgrounds offer dedicated water hookups. At Jack Pine Lodge and Campground, "they provide a free ORV hand washing station and air for tires," which equestrians sometimes utilize for basic horse care needs.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly horse trails: Several forest trails provide appropriate terrain for younger or less experienced riders. "The U.P. has so much to offer if you're into the great outdoors," notes a Jack Pine visitor, with many trails suitable for family riding groups.
Safety considerations: Wildlife encounters require preparation when camping with horses and children. "I heard a pack of coyotes at one point and pretty sure I heard some sort of padfooted animal walk by my site," reports a Hickey Marsh camper, suggesting proper food storage and animal containment.
Alternative activities: Newberry Campground offers options when not riding. "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," notes one visitor, providing recreational alternatives during horse rest days.
Tips from RVers
Horse trailer turning radius: Forest road configurations limit maneuverability for larger combined rigs. "We were able to back our 26 foot travel trailer in and stay hooked up to it," notes Tim at Hickey Marsh, providing useful perspective on space limitations.
Campsite spacing considerations: Equestrian campers need additional space for horses beyond standard RV requirements. "Most sites have water/sewage and 30 or 50amp service. There is a dog run in the back of the property for small dogs," reports an RVer at Jack Pine Lodge and Campground, indicating facilities that accommodate animals.
Off-season advantages: Shoulder seasons provide less crowded conditions for horse camping. "We were lucky, we went pre-season... but we had the site and the lakes to ourselves," notes Willow M. about Ironjaw Lake, highlighting optimal timing for equestrian campers needing more space and solitude.
