For horse enthusiasts seeking equestrian accommodations in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, options require advance planning. The St. Ignace region sits at the southern edge of the UP where Lake Huron meets Lake Michigan, with terrain characterized by mixed hardwood forests and limestone formations. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing from November through March, making summer and fall the primary seasons for equestrian activities.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: While Tahquamenon Falls State Park has no horse corrals, the surrounding area offers trail access. "The trails are paved so its an easy walk," notes Susan C., though these particular trails are for hiking rather than horses.
Water activities: The St. James Township area provides water recreation options for when you're not riding. A camper at St. James Township Campground shares, "My favorite thing to do is paddle my kayak out into the bay, anchor up, and sit for hours in the gentle waves reading a book."
Dark sky viewing: After a day of riding, enjoy stargazing. "Beaver Island is a designated dark sky area and I've seen the aurora multiple times," reports Mike M. about St. James Township Campground. For equestrians, this offers evening entertainment after caring for horses.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Many campgrounds serve as good base camps while you trailer horses to riding areas. At Newberry Campground, Chris M. appreciated the "nice clean sites" and noted there are "a lot of pull through sites, and a lot of different style of sites wooded and grassy."
River access: Some areas offer water features near potential trailer parking. Sue R. from Sturgeon Valley Campground noted "River access great. My favorite place to camp and kayak," which could benefit those looking to cool horses after rides.
Family-friendly amenities: For those traveling with both horses and children, some campgrounds offer entertainment options. Holly K. found that at Chandler Hill Campground, "Camp sites are nicely spread out and our 4 kids have a ball. They just updated their playground area as well!"
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most standard campgrounds near St. Ignace lack dedicated equestrian facilities. The Rivermouth Modern Campground explicitly lists "NO horse-corral" in its amenities.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate seasonally. Newberry Campground runs "May 23 to October 15," which aligns with optimal riding weather in the region.
Trail conditions: While no formal equestrian trails exist at many campgrounds, Soo Locks Campground provides access to surrounding areas. One camper notes it's "Right on the river. Close to town. It's not pretty, just functional," making it potentially suitable for temporary trailer parking.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Children need entertainment while adults tend to horses. At Newberry Campground, one visitor mentioned the "very nice heated pool" and noted it's a "central location for upper peninsula activities."
Playground options: Kids can stay entertained while adults handle equestrian duties. "They have a playground a pool for kids. Large wooded sites and friendly staff," reports Hannah about Newberry Campground.
Alternative activities: When not riding, families can enjoy water features. At Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Bryan T. found that "hiking along the river between the falls was great and it was total worth the extra few dollars to rent a boat and row out to the island."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through accessibility: Horse trailers require adequate space. Brad F. at Chandler Hill Campground noted it's a "Nice campground. The hosts were very nice," adding they "Recommend the on site ATV rental lots of trails to ride," indicating roads suitable for larger vehicles.
Hookup availability: Horse owners with living quarters trailers need appropriate connections. Kelli V. cautions about Newberry Campground: "The pull-through sites are SMALL! If you happen to have a neighbor, you share campfire and picnic table space."
Dump station access: For extended stays with living quarters trailers, waste management matters. Megan A. reports Soo Locks Campground has "shower house are always clean" and provides "a laundry room and a few things for sale in the office."
