Cedar River North State Forest Campground offers equestrian campsites within driving distance of Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin. Located approximately 105 miles northwest of Baileys Harbor in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, this rural campground sits at an elevation of about 700 feet along the Cedar River. The area features sandy-loam soil that drains well after rain, though roads can become muddy during wet periods.
What to do
Trail riding: Cedar River North connects to equestrian trails that vary in difficulty, making them suitable for riders of all experience levels. Campers at Washington Island Campground enjoy exploring the island's natural areas, with one visitor noting, "We found lots of wildlife but the best was cute little tree frogs!"
River activities: Cool off your horses or yourself in the Cedar River after a day of riding. At River Park, campers appreciate the water access: "We were able to kayak and fish along the river within view of our campsite. Some of the sites themselves are elegantly perched above the riverbank and give you a great view overlooking the mini rapids."
Winter recreation: Horseback riding trails double as cross-country ski paths during winter months. The trails near equestrian campgrounds around Baileys Harbor transform when snow covers the ground, providing seasonal recreation options.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many equestrian campgrounds offer well-spaced sites that provide separation from other campers. At River Park, visitors appreciate that "each campsite seems to be separated pretty far apart. I couldn't see anyone else from my site (#2)."
Natural setting: Campers value the peaceful forest environment. A visitor to Rustic Timbers Door County Camping reported, "I was surprised that each site is pretty wooded making you feel like you don't have neighbors. The surrounding area is just expansive farmlands which is beautiful to look at when walking the dog in the morning."
Clean facilities: Despite the rustic nature, many campgrounds maintain their amenities well. A recent visitor to Cedar River North State Forest Campground described it as a "Great little State Forest campground that follows the river. Very few people, extremely quiet, private sites."
What you should know
Access roads: Roads to equestrian campgrounds near Baileys Harbor can be challenging. One Cedar River North camper notes, "Road is slightly bumpy but completely fine for almost any vehicle to go down." Similarly, at Bay Shore Park, visitors should know that "The automated pay system insisted we pay for 2 nights since they considered Thursday to be a weekend night."
Insects: Mosquitoes are abundant, especially during summer months. Bring appropriate protection for both yourself and your horses. As one camper at Cedar River North observed, "Mosquitoes are plentiful."
Limited services: Most horse campgrounds have basic amenities only. At River Park, campers mention, "Vault toilets were clean, centrally located and close to the hand pump well. Plenty of space at each of the sites."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: While horse campgrounds focus on equestrian needs, some nearby campgrounds offer family amenities. At Green's Green Acres Campground, families can enjoy "A local staple, many regular and occasionally irregular music festivals are held here."
Wildlife viewing: Children often enjoy spotting local animals. Cedar River North provides opportunities to see and hear wildlife, with previous campers mentioning coyotes calling across the river in early mornings.
Water activities: Bring kayaks or fishing gear to take advantage of riverside camping. At Bay Shore Park, one camper noted, "This is a great spot for kids...although there isn't swimming there are 2 playgrounds and lots of space to play frisbee or run around."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites that accommodate larger vehicles with horse trailers. At Washington Island Campground, an RVer advised, "We had a 35' trailer last year and 42' fifth wheel this year. The ferry ride was easy to navigate and when we arrived we were able to just drive right on."
Hookup locations: Water and electric connections at some campgrounds may be positioned awkwardly. A camper at Bay Shore Park found that "The electric and water hookups were on opposite sides of the site, and we had to keep adjusting the travel trailer to get both to actually hook up."
Ground conditions: Be prepared for potential mud after rainfall. A camper at Bay Shore Park observed, "The ground was a sandy-dirt, which wasn't too bad at first, but after an overnight rain it was a muddy mess."
