Best Equestrian Camping near Pictured Rocks National Park
Dispersed Camping Hovey Lake Equine Trailhead allows free primitive camping in Michigan's Upper Peninsula with direct access to bridle trails. Located approximately 45 minutes from Pictured Rocks National Park, this rustic site accommodates both tent and RV camping with horse-friendly features. While the site lacks official horse corrals, riders appreciate the spacious layout for securing horses and parking trailers. The campground provides vault toilets but no drinking water or hookups. Campers should bring their own water for horses and humans. The natural setting offers horses ample room to be secured with highlines or portable corrals that visitors bring themselves.
The Hovey Lake trail system connects to extensive equestrian routes throughout Hiawatha National Forest, providing varied terrain for day rides from camp. Riders can access miles of forest trails directly from their campsites without having to trailer horses to separate trailheads. Most sites can accommodate horse trailers with adequate turn-around space, though larger rigs may find access challenging on narrow forest roads. Trail conditions vary seasonally, with spring typically bringing muddy sections that require careful navigation. The area between Manistique and Munising serves as a central base for exploring both forest trails and the Lake Superior shoreline. Forest Service roads provide additional riding opportunities beyond the designated trail system. Overnight horse campers should practice leave-no-trace principles by properly disposing of manure away from water sources.
