Ortonville Recreation Area is situated within Michigan's wooded terrain north of Detroit, with two lakes across its 5,400 acres of rolling hills. The equestrian camping area sits at approximately 1,020 feet elevation and experiences typical Midwest seasonal weather patterns with summer highs in the 80s. The recreation area's trail system connects directly to camping areas through a network of maintained paths.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Ortonville Recreation Area features extensive riding paths directly accessible from the equestrian campground. According to one visitor, "The trail system provides enough variety for multiple days of riding without repeating routes." Riders should note that water sources for horses may be seasonal, requiring visitors to bring their own water supply.
Swimming and fishing: Seven Lakes State Park Campground offers clear water recreation just 30 minutes from Clio. One camper notes, "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 features seven connected lakes with designated swimming areas.
Mountain biking: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area maintains well-marked bike trails through wooded terrain. A visitor mentioned, "Very nice sites. Wooded and up north feel. Great hiking and world class mountain bike trails." The extensive trail system accommodates different skill levels across its varied terrain.
What campers like
Private campsites: Campers appreciate the secluded feel at Highland State Recreation Area, where "The sites are very private and spacious in the primitive camping area." Another camper noted, "Extra large camp sites, lots of room for the kids to run around." This rustic camping area offers more space between sites than many other nearby options.
Clean facilities: Despite rustic designations, most campgrounds maintain functional facilities. At Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground, "Bathrooms are well spaced between the campsites, and have showers along with some vending machines outside of them. Spigots are scattered throughout and are very accessible." Ortonville Equestrian Campground maintains clean vault toilets throughout the riding season.
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas around Clio support diverse wildlife. One camper at Highland Recreation Area shared, "We ran up on a group of probably 70 wild turkeys on the trail!" Another noted the area feels "magical" with an abundance of wildlife throughout the seasons.
What you should know
Electrical access limitations: Several campgrounds have specific electrical setup challenges. At Sleepy Hollow, "Most electrical posts are designed to accommodate at least 2 adjoining lots, and as many as 4. This in itself is not a concern until you realize the posts are way too far away to reach without an extension." Contact rangers in advance about power needs.
Seasonal conditions: Michigan weather impacts trail and facility conditions. Summer months bring mosquitoes and ticks, requiring proper preparation. A Highland Recreation Area visitor advised, "Nothing Lysol can't fix there but with a total of 8 males (6 being under 18....) always have a can of Lysol when porta potties were in our future."
Reservation requirements: For equestrian camping near Clio, Michigan, advance reservations through Michigan's DNR system are essential during peak seasons. Covenant Hills Camp operates with different reservation policies as a private facility, where one camper noted, "They take very good care of this campground.. Lots to do for kids!"
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Multiple locations offer structured activities for children. At Covenant Hills, visitors enjoy "Good, quiet campground (unless your on a site around the playground) lots to keep the kids busy, bonus ice cream store." Look for campgrounds with designated kid-friendly amenities when traveling with families.
Beach access: Bishop Lake Campground features swimming options with amenities for children. One visitor shared, "The beach was nice but you have to walk a trail to get to it from the campground or drive. Nice walking trails." Similarly, at Seven Lakes, "The water is clear and warm (perfect lake for swimming) and there is both sand and grassy areas on the fairly large beach."
Campsite selection: When camping with horses and children, select sites that balance safety with convenience. At Ortonville Equestrian Campground, sites include designated areas for horse trailers alongside standard camping facilities. Request sites farther from main trails if traveling with smaller children unfamiliar with horses.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord needs: Multiple campgrounds require additional electrical equipment. A Pontiac Lake camper advised, "If you are hoping to hook up to electrical, bring extension cords; some hook ups are exceptionally far away from the designated RV parking pad." This applies to several recreation areas near Clio.
Site leveling: Prepare for uneven terrain at many locations. One camper at Covenant Hills noted, "I wouldn't say rustic but the sites can be a bit hard to get into. They don't level out very well." Bring leveling blocks for RVs at most recreation areas surrounding Clio, Michigan.
Off-season options: For those seeking quieter horse camping experiences, consider non-summer months. The Ortonville Equestrian Campground remains accessible during spring and fall when temperatures are moderate and trail conditions remain suitable for riding, though with fewer amenities available.
