Highland State Recreation Area's 5,900 acres provide an equestrian-friendly camping experience 20 miles northwest of Plymouth, Michigan. The recreation area features rustic camping options with access to trails specifically designed for horseback riding. Seasonal patterns create ideal riding conditions during spring and fall when moderate temperatures average 50-70°F, while summer can bring mosquito-heavy conditions in wooded trail sections.
What to do
Explore miles of trails: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area maintains extensive trail networks through varied terrain. According to one visitor, "Extensive mountain biking trails and the lake is open to boating, kayaking, and other water sports. Park offers lots of private sites!" The recreation area provides both hiking and equestrian-specific routes.
Visit equestrian facilities: Wayne County Fairgrounds RV Park accommodates horses during camping stays. A camper noted, "I got lucky and woke up to a horse and dog competition at no extra cost to me." The fairgrounds regularly hosts equestrian events from April through October.
Kayak clear waters: Seven Lakes State Park offers pristine water recreation opportunities. A visitor observed, "Sand Lake was our spot and the water was breath taking - it's a small pond really, but great for kayaking. Crystal clear, clean water, a good public beach." The park maintains boat launches accessible from the campground.
What campers like
Private campsites: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area receives high marks for site separation. One camper reported, "The sites aren't super far away from each other but there are trees between sites so from most of the sites you can't really see your neighbors." This creates a more secluded feel despite being in a developed campground.
Proximity to multiple lakes: The area's geography includes numerous small lakes within short distances. A visitor to Brighton Recreation Area shared, "A lot of trails for biking and hiking. Near by grocery stores. The lake has water activities you can pay extra for if you would like to do that." Many campgrounds maintain their own lake access.
Clean facilities: Addison Oaks County Park maintains well-kept amenities. According to one review, "Park was clean, guests well behaved, staff helpful." The park offers water and electric hookups with cement pads at most sites.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Several horse campgrounds near Plymouth close during winter months. A visitor to Wayne County Fairgrounds noted, "I arrived for a 2 week stay in the area on 11/12. I discovered this campground was closed for the season." Most equestrian facilities operate from April through October.
Mosquito preparation: Bug protection is essential, particularly in wooded areas. A camper at Highland State Recreation Area advised, "The sites are very private and spacious in the primitive camping area. The natural scenery is STUNNING with fields of flowers and trees. There's a quiet lake perfect for unwinding after a long day." However, mosquito activity can be heavy in summer months.
Variable site privacy: Campground layouts differ significantly across the region. One visitor observed, "This campground was what we needed for squirrel hunting, however, it is very open and not very private. It is another one of those 'parking lot campgrounds' where you can see all of your neighbors at all times." Research site maps before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity centers: Hell Creek Ranch & Campground offers multiple family amenities. A visitor shared, "A swimming pool and playground with basketball court to keep my kids entertained and clean facilities convinced me I had made the right choice. As an added plus a horse barn right on property offering riding lessons, trail rides and meet and greets with their houses and other barn animals."
Consider weather timing: Late spring and early fall typically offer the most comfortable temperatures for family camping with horses. According to one camper, "We've used this campground as a get-together place for our family reunion for the past 7 years, and we've never had anything less than a great experience." Weather patterns typically bring rainy periods in April and October.
Check trail difficulty levels: Trail systems vary widely in their suitability for younger riders. A visitor noted, "Extensive trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Lovely little no wake lake perfect for swimming, fishing or paddling." Research trail maps before arrival to match routes with rider experience levels.
Tips from RVers
Prepare for limited hookups: Bishop Lake Campground provides basic connections but may require adaptations. One RVer mentioned, "This is a larger state park with full size sites for RVs. There is electric on each site along with fire rings and picnic tables." Water access points may require longer hoses at certain sites.
Check site length specifications: Equestrian campers with horse trailers need extra space. A visitor observed, "The campground is nice with good access to bikes, trails, water, beach. Unfortunately the sites are on top of each other and very loud." Request site measurements when making reservations to ensure sufficient room for RV plus horse trailer.
Verify equestrian access rules: Not all campgrounds permit horses at RV sites. Before booking, confirm whether the campground requires separate accommodations for horses and whether portable corrals are permitted on RV sites. Most dedicated equestrian campgrounds have specific regulations governing where horses can be kept overnight.
