Cedar River North State Forest Campground provides equestrian camping options in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, approximately 90 miles northwest of Ellison Bay, Wisconsin. The campground features 14 rustic sites along the Cedar River, with half equipped with horse pens. Visitors access the grounds via an 8-mile drive on a former logging road that can become challenging during wet weather. The remote location offers a quiet camping experience with minimal crowding even during peak summer months.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Cedar River North connects directly to extensive equestrian trail networks that double as winter ski trails. The trails accommodate riders of all experience levels, with routes ranging from 2 to 15 miles through dense forest terrain. According to Christopher L., the area provides a "quite, tranquil" setting with "extremely quiet, private sites" that serve as ideal base camps for day rides.
Fishing excursions: The Cedar River offers productive fishing spots directly accessible from several campsites. Bass fishing is particularly popular during summer months when water levels remain consistent. River Park in Stephenson features sites "elegantly perched above the riverbank" that give campers "a great view overlooking the mini rapids at the convergence of the river split," as described by David K. at River Park.
Island exploration: For those willing to venture further, Washington Island Campground provides a ferry-accessible camping experience. "The island itself is lovely with lots to do and see," notes Mary H., adding that "taking the ferry was really fun and unique!" The limestone beaches, lavender farms, and family-oriented activities make Washington Island Campground a distinctive destination for horse owners looking to extend their trip beyond Ellison Bay.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Horse campers appreciate the well-spaced sites that provide privacy despite accommodating large trailers and equipment. At Cedar River North State Forest Campground, campers enjoy river frontage with natural separation between sites. Eric S. confirms this spaciousness at nearby equestrian campgrounds: "Plenty of space at each of the sites. Some of the sites were right on the river while the ones uphill had horse fences."
Water access for horses: The Cedar River provides convenient water access for horses after trail rides. This natural feature eliminates the need to transport water to horse pens. At similar facilities, campers value riverside locations where "you can get down to the river" as Gwynn S. notes about River Park's Site 2, which "has a path down to the river, which is so beautiful."
Wildlife encounters: Morning and evening hours bring opportunities to observe local wildlife while tending to horses. The forest setting around equestrian sites hosts diverse birds, small mammals, and occasionally larger animals. According to Lauren B., "you can hear birds and squirrels chattering, coyotes call to each other early in the morning across the river, and lots of little critters scurrying about."
What you should know
Access road conditions: The 8-mile access road to Cedar River North can present challenges for trucks pulling horse trailers, particularly during spring thaw or after heavy rainfall. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended when conditions deteriorate. Eric S. reports about similar forest campgrounds: "The road in was a little muddy but not bad enough to get stuck."
Limited amenities: Horse campgrounds near Ellison Bay operate with minimal facilities. Cedar River North provides vault toilets and hand-pumped water but no electrical hookups or shower facilities. Cole M. notes about River Park: "Cell service with Att is horrible too but we are camping."
Site selection for trailers: Not all equestrian sites accommodate larger horse trailers equally. When booking, specify trailer dimensions to secure appropriate space. Campers with extensive rigs should research carefully, as Cole warns: "I would not recommend this campground for anyone with a larger camper. I have a 38' long, 12'+ tall bumper pull and was scraping the roof on trees and struggled to get backed into the site."
Tips for camping with families
Playground alternatives: While Cedar River North lacks formal playground facilities, the natural setting offers alternative recreation for children. At Rustic Timbers Door County Camping near Egg Harbor, Linda N. discovered: "The newer playground is now open/free and includes a pickleball court, which was enjoyed by everyone," providing insights on family amenities available within driving distance of equestrian sites.
Wildlife activities: Encourage children to participate in morning wildlife spotting from safe distances around horse pens. The early hours offer the best viewing opportunities for birds and small mammals. Connor M. shares: "We found lots of wildlife but the best was cute little tree frogs! The island itself is lovely with lots to do and see."
Site cleanup awareness: Some equestrian sites may contain remnants from previous campers that require attention when camping with children or animals. Eric S. cautions: "My only complaint was the amount of trash in the fire pits. They have plenty of trash cans all around. Hopefully future campers start using them!"
Tips from RVers
Clearance considerations: RVers towing horse trailers should be mindful of overhead clearance on access roads to equestrian campgrounds. Low-hanging branches can damage taller rigs. Kelly G. from Washington Island Campground shares a relevant experience with a larger rig: "Even with our 13'2" clearance they easily accommodated us. Campground check in was easy and smooth, owners were friendly and gave us tips for navigating into our site with a big rig."
Site leveling challenges: Equestrian sites typically feature natural terrain that may require additional leveling equipment. Bring extra blocking materials for stabilizing RVs on uneven ground. As Zachary J. notes about riverside sites: "We are in site 3 overlooking the River. We will come back again; each site had a trash and fire ring."
Limited hookup availability: Most horse campgrounds near Ellison Bay operate without full hookups. Plan for dry camping with occasional water access points. Christopher L. confirms: "Great little State Forest campground that follows the river. Very few people, extremely quiet, private sites. Road is slightly bumpy but completely fine for almost any vehicle to go down."
