Ely Lake Campground serves equestrian campers within Michigan's Allegan State Game Area, approximately 35 miles from Spring Lake. The campground remains open year-round with peak usage during spring and fall months when temperatures average between 45-75°F. Winter access can be limited by snow conditions, particularly on the interior roads which weren't designed for large vehicles.
What to do
Horseback riding around local lakes: The White River Special Area in Manistee National Forest offers dispersed camping with equestrian access to various trails. "This is the White River special area of the Manistee National Forest. While there are numbered campsites, there are no facilities or amenities. This is more suitable for tents or maybe small campers," notes Kendra H. at White River Campsite #1.
Golf at horse-friendly resorts: Several equestrian campgrounds combine trail riding with golf access. At Double RR Ranch RV Resort, one camper reported: "My husband liked the golf course that came with renting spot. Seen lots of wildlife. Very relaxing time in our pop up not too far from Grand Rapids."
Swimming after trail rides: Many horse campgrounds near Spring Lake include swimming options for cooling off after riding. "There is a beach," points out James K. about Ely Lake. Another camper mentions, "The Lake is for non-motorized recreational use so it is mostly used for kayaking and canoeing and fishing."
What campers like
Rustic camping experience: The primitive nature of many equestrian campsites appeals to experienced horse owners. "Been coming here since I was little, took a 25 year hiatus from camping. Went back there recently and loved it just like when I was a kid!" says Skip C. about Ely Lake Campground.
Affordable drop-in options: Several horse-friendly sites allow impromptu camping. "You can make reservations online ahead of time, or show up and find an empty site (but bring cash or check to pay because its a drop box)," explains one reviewer at Duke Creek Campground.
Year-round availability: Unlike many seasonal campgrounds, some equestrian sites remain open through winter. "It is open year round. All rustic sites, horses welcomed, vault toilets, and water pumps. Pay for site by money drop in tube so bring your check book," notes Ellen S.
What you should know
Varying noise levels: Weekends can bring significantly more activity to horse campgrounds. "It is a wonderful experience until about 10:30 PM on Friday and Saturday night. This place attracts a rowdy crowd and in the evenings (apparently there is no where else for the locals to have a rager)," warns a camper about Ely Lake.
Water quality concerns: Many horse campgrounds offer only pump water of questionable quality. "There is a hand pump for water, although I would recommend bringing your own drinking water because the water from the hand pump is very discolored," advises James K.
Limited amenities: Manistee National Forest Condon Lakes exemplifies the basic facilities at most horse campgrounds: "Got here around 1730 on a Sunday. Have the whole place to myself. Not bad getting into, signal is poor. Lots of wildlife."
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment options: Unlike developed campgrounds, most equestrian sites lack playgrounds. "No playground. Just the beach and the trails," notes a camper about primitive options near Spring Lake.
Consider seasonal cabin rentals: For families new to horse camping, cabins provide comfort while accessing trails. At Scalley Lake Park Campground, "The cabins are clean and nice, the view of the lake is beautiful. My 6 children had a great time here," reports Nora M.
Watch for wildlife: Horse campgrounds often attract diverse wildlife due to their remote locations. "Seen lots of wildlife. Very relaxing time in our pop up not too far from Grand Rapids," mentions a camper about Double RR Ranch.
Tips from RVers
Interior road limitations: Most equestrian sites have restricted access for larger rigs. "The sites were very small at this campground. Our fire pit was so close to our trailer we didn't dare use it," reports Clint about one local campground.
Generator requirements: Tree cover at many horse campgrounds affects power options. "Solar is a negative due to tree cover," notes TheSydliks about Timbers Edge Campground.
Limited hookups: Even campgrounds that accommodate RVs typically offer minimal services. "Caveat: no electric, no running water, no sewer/septic, no dump, no fill... Can run your generator (inverter type is best)," explains a camper about local options.
