Hovey Lake Equine Trailhead provides free dispersed camping in Michigan's Upper Peninsula for horse riders exploring Hiawatha National Forest trails. Located about 45 minutes southwest of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the site features a rustic camping area with vault toilets but no water sources. The forest service roads leading to the trailhead can accommodate horse trailers with adequate turn-around space for standard rigs.
What to do
Trail riding options: Equestrian camping near Pictured Rocks National Park connects to an extensive network of bridle paths. At Jack Pine Lodge and Campground, riders appreciate the strategic location. As one camper noted, "It's clean, quiet and caters to riders. It has direct trail access from the property, and they provide a free ORV hand washing station and air for tires."
Visit nearby lakes: The region features multiple small lakes for fishing and paddling. Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite sits between two lakes, offering water access. A visitor mentioned, "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."
Explore the National Forest: The central UP location provides convenient access to forest lands. "The U.P. has so much to offer if you're into the great outdoors. Jack Pine is a small campground in the Hiawatha National Forest. It's a big attraction for Quads and dirt bikes during the summer and snowmobiles, during the winter."
What campers like
Seclusion without isolation: Many horseback riding sites near Pictured Rocks offer privacy while maintaining reasonable access to supplies. At Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping, one camper reported, "Secluded but not too secluded. Solid spot. About 10min from Munising."
Cell connectivity: Despite the remote forest setting, several sites maintain usable signals. "This is a great spot, very private and easy to access. T-Mobile cell services was very good. I would warn though that the mosquitoes were pretty bad when we visited."
Seasonal weather patterns: Late summer and fall provide more comfortable camping conditions in the UP. "Camp in early September, bugs were minimal. At times the night was eerily silent, at other times I heard dirt bikes and tractor trailers in the distance, also heard a pack of coyotes at one point."
What you should know
Bug protection essential: The UP's forests can have significant insect populations, particularly in early summer. At Newberry Campground, a visitor warned, "It was a bit pricey for camping $40 for a pop up truck camper with only electric and water. My one complaint was it is pretty close to the road and during a heavy tourist season it could probably be pretty loud."
Seasonal timing matters: Most campgrounds in the region operate with limited seasons. "We stayed here on the very last night they were open this season. The staff was very friendly and they actually had campsites that were more private then almost all the Michigan state parks we have stayed at."
Trail conditions vary: Forest service roads can become challenging after wet weather. "We did have to clear a bunch of down trees to get down the road but we had the site and the lakes to ourselves. It was gorgeous. There is a permitted site (May-Sept) at the end but multiple pull out spots for dispersed camping along the forest road."
Tips for camping with families
Amenities for children: Some established campgrounds offer family-friendly facilities. "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," reported a visitor to Newberry Campground.
Consider noise levels: Road proximity affects some camping areas. "The first night we were there, a cabin-renter up the hill and his wife were arguing loudly and seem to be regulars at this place. While it provided entertainment in the otherwise quiet and boring campground- it was a little off putting."
Space considerations: Site layouts vary significantly throughout the region. At Catchin' Crickets Campground, a camper observed, "Clean, sites are level. Reasonable good space in between sites. Trees need some time to grow larger to provide any shade if anybody looking for a campsite with shade."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many forest roads have limitations for larger rigs. "We only found 2 pull in sites and took the first one. We were able to back our 26 foot travel trailer in and stay hooked up to it. There was only 1 car drive by in 2 days."
Services availability: Full-hookup options exist but are limited in the region. "Jack Pine Lodge was an amazing neat little campground. They only have about two or three dozen sites but all are full hook ups and the location is amazing too. In the middle of the National Forest, smack in the middle of the UP."
Internet connectivity: Some campgrounds provide wifi for those needing to stay connected. "Wifi is alittle spotty at the end of the campground but our jet pack works wonders out here."
