Best Equestrian Camping in Michigan

When you think about camping in Michigan, it’s the water that draws most to the Great Lakes State. Michigan has 3,288 miles of shoreline, the second longest of any state, including 1,056 miles of island coast. Plus, you’re never more than six miles from a natural water source, or more than 85 miles away from a Great Lake.

There are plenty of opportunities for coastal and island camping in Michigan, but it’s more than just water. Michigan has the largest state park and state forest system of any state, with over 100 state parks, recreation areas, and state forests. There are also several national parks, forests, and lakeshores to pitch a tent or park the adventure rig. Needless to say, you have some options, so stick with The Dyrt to help you narrow it down. Consider these main Michigan attractions when deciding on where to go camping in Michigan.

For most campers, the epicenter of natural beauty and outdoor recreation in Michigan is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Mountainous dunes slope from high peaks and plateaus down to meet with the clear blue waters of Lake Michigan. Hiking, biking, hang gliding, off-roading, kiteboarding, paddle boarding, or just simply sandy beach lounging can all be found in and around Sleeping Bear Dunes. Also, when you take a camping trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes, the nearby quaint towns and rolling inland hills speckled with fruit orchards provide the perfect bonus excursions.

Michigan has more lighthouses than any other state in the country. Michigan waterways have been essential to the growth of the nation, but they’ve also been treacherous for mariners for centuries, and continue to demand respect. When camping in Michigan, touring some of the iconic Michigan lighthouses can be a great way to learn about the history of the region, while also taking in stellar views of natural landscapes and architectural achievement. Check in with The Dyrt for information on camping near some great Michigan lighthouses.

Finally, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is an entire playground of its own for outdoor recreation and exploration. Discover some of the many waterfalls like the impressive Tahquamenon Falls, or kayak on Lake Superior for a memorable view of the famous Pictured Rocks. The power of Lake Superior can be seen across the northern shore with unique rock formations, and remnants of the prominent mining and shipping industry still exist throughout. If you’re thinking about more remote or wild camping options in Michigan, the Upper Peninsula is for you. Whatever your camping style, stay tuned to The Dyrt for inside information on the best camping in Michigan.

Best Equestrian Sites in Michigan (64)

    1. Fort Custer Recreation Area

    41 Reviews
    Augusta, MI
    Website
    +1 (269) 731-4200

    "Several no wake lakes for kayaking, canoeing and fishing. One lake with swimming beach. Lots of trails for hiking,  horses and mountain bikes."

    "The trails are great for hikers, bikers, & equestrians. We’ve had family camp outs there, as well my husband & I alone. It’s all dog friendly too! 🐕🐶"

    2. Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    Ovid, MI
    Website
    +1 (800) 447-2757

    $25 - $101 / night

    "Quietly tucked into Clinton co Michigan. Sleepy is easily accessible. Its close to Lansing. There are shopping centers nearby. Country party store is closer!! Very large lake....Ovid is her name!"

    "What can I say, I love the Michigan State Parks.  I find they are the best, Sleepy Hollow is not different and it has so many things to do. "

    3. Bishop Lake Campground

    27 Reviews
    Brighton, MI
    Website
    +1 (810) 229-6566

    $17 - $90 / night

    "Campground Review:

    Bishop Lake is a great campground located in the middle of the Brighton Rec Area. The upper and lower campgrounds are both modern, with every site including electric."

    "Great family place with paved and dirt biking/hiking trails. Very nice beach with grass and sand. There are 2 areas of inflatables, one of them is for the little kids 48 in. and under."

    4. Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday

    17 Reviews
    Covert, MI
    Website
    +1 (269) 764-0818

    "Nice very busy pool and slide, play areas, walking trail, camp store with hot food. Not far from Lake Michigan and places to buy fresh fruit and veggies. Check it out you'll be happy you did."

    "This is a great place to camp with young children, as there are many activities around the camp. It is family owned and operated and you can tell- warm and friendly."

    5. Pontiac Lake Recreation Area

    17 Reviews
    White Lake, MI
    Website
    +1 (248) 666-1020

    $22 / night

    "Great hiking and world class mountain bike trails. Nice big lake. Only drawback is you must drive to the lake or hike 1.8 miles through the woods on a trail to get there. No camp store."

    "An extensive horse back riding trail system and MTB trails are easily accessible."

    6. Addison Oaks County Park

    13 Reviews
    Lakeville, MI
    Website
    +1 (248) 858-1400

    "The park has a beautiful 2.5 mile trail around the lake that makes this campground great. We brought our own kayaks but they do rent boats. We saw deer and rabbit."

    "Cell phone tower is close by. We especially enjoy the intermediate level mountain bike trails. Showers are hot. Lots of deer to see at dusk."

    7. Waterloo Sugarloaf Modern — Waterloo Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    Chelsea, MI
    Website
    +1 (734) 475-8307

    "Lots of trails within reach and a horse riding stable if that is your thing. Heard lots of wolves, saw lots of tracks but no animals. I’d like to go back in the spring and hike around some more!"

    "It is usually easy to get multiple sites next to each other with reservations.

    There is a decent sandy beach here with a playground and volleyball net."

    8. Ely Lake Campground

    11 Reviews
    Fennville, MI
    Website
    +1 (269) 686-9088

    "No power motor lake but there is another lake close by that is. We take the canoe with a trolling motor and hit that as well. Pet friendly. They have horse campsites and trails."

    "All rustic sites, horses welcomed, vault toilets, and water pumps. Pay for site by money drop in tube so bring your check book. The lake is great for kayaking. Miles of trails to wander and discover."

    9. Jack Pine Lodge and Campground

    9 Reviews
    Hiawatha National Forest, MI
    Website

    $30 / night

    "I have absolutely nothing but positive things to say. I am more one to frequent rustic and secluded campgrounds."

    "This campground is very close to trailhead. Well maintained, decent wifi. Don't expect any Verizon cell coverage here. Sites are nice and large, staff is friendly and the bar has good food"

    10. Hell Creek Ranch & Campground

    10 Reviews
    Pinckney, MI
    Website
    +1 (734) 878-3632

    $20 - $35 / night

    "Direct connections to the Waterloo Pinckney trail system. Near Hell, Michigan and Chelsea, Michigan. Large pool in season. Priced reasonably."

    "As an added plus a horse barn (Heavenly Horse Stables) right on property offering riding lessons, trail rides and meet and greets with their houses and other barn animals, my daughter wanted to move here"

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Showing results 1-10 of 64 campgrounds

Equestrian Camping Reviews in Michigan

361 Reviews of 64 Michigan Campgrounds



Guide to Michigan

Horse camping in Michigan offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and equestrian-friendly amenities, making it an ideal choice for horse enthusiasts looking to explore the state's beautiful landscapes.

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like spacious sites

  • Gaylord KOA provides large, well-maintained sites that accommodate horse camping, ensuring comfort for both riders and their horses.
  • Hell Creek Ranch & Campground features spacious sites with easy access to trails, making it a great choice for equestrian campers.
  • Turtle Lake Campground offers grassy areas and a family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for those camping with horses.

Equestrian campgrounds include essential facilities

  • Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground provides essential amenities such as drinking water and sanitary dump stations, catering to the needs of horse campers.
  • Bishop Lake Campground is equipped with electric hookups and picnic tables, ensuring a comfortable stay for equestrian visitors.
  • Covenant Hills Camp features well-maintained facilities and ample space for horse camping, making it a popular choice among families and groups.