Headquarters Lake Equestrian State Forest Campground and Trail Camp

For Michigan's passionate equestrians and outdoor lovers seeking a truly unique and specialized camping experience, Headquarters Lake Equestrian State Forest Campground and Trail Camp in Newberry, MI, stands out as a premier destination. This rustic campground is specifically designed to accommodate campers with horses, offering not just a place to stay, but a gateway to extensive trail riding adventures in the breathtaking landscape of the Upper Peninsula. If your ideal getaway involves hitting the trails with your equine companion, then this friendly and well-situated campground is poised to become your favorite Michigan retreat.

Headquarters Lake Equestrian State Forest Campground is managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and is an essential resource for the equestrian community. It perfectly blends the rugged charm of a state forest campground with amenities tailored to horse owners. The positive feedback from visitors, even in simple terms like "Nice camping areas :)", hints at a welcoming environment that makes both riders and their horses feel comfortable and valued. This focus on providing a dedicated space for equestrian camping truly sets it apart in Michigan's diverse camping offerings.

Headquarters Lake Equestrian State Forest Campground and Trail Camp is located in Newberry, MI 49868, USA. This places it in Luce County, deep within Michigan's majestic Upper Peninsula. While it offers a secluded and natural setting, its accessibility is carefully managed to ensure equestrian travelers can reach it with ease.

The campground is situated approximately 23 to 30 miles north of Newberry, typically accessed via paved roads like M-123 and County Road 407. This means that while you're venturing into the heart of the forest, the primary routes to get there are suitable for trailers and larger rigs. The campground also features a large equestrian day-use and staging area near its entrance, complete with ample parking, making it convenient for both overnight campers and day-riders.

Its location on the shore of Headquarters Lake provides picturesque views and direct access to water. Furthermore, its position within the vast state forest means it serves as a central hub for an extensive network of multi-use trails. For Michigan residents, this means a manageable drive into the UP, leading to a specialized facility that caters directly to their passion for trail riding. The blend of remote wilderness feel with relatively easy road access is a significant benefit for those traveling with horses.

Headquarters Lake Equestrian State Forest Campground and Trail Camp provides a suite of services specifically designed to meet the needs of equestrian campers, alongside standard rustic camping amenities:

• Equestrian-Specific Campsites: The campground features 9 rustic sites, with 6 back-in sites on the shore of Headquarters Lake and 3 pull-through sites in the circular drive. These sites are intended for those camping with horses and can accommodate tents to large trailers.
• Horse Containment Facilities: Campers are encouraged to use their own highlines or temporary corrals for containing their horses at their sites.
• Manure Pits/Bunkers: Convenient manure pits are available, essential for maintaining cleanliness within an equestrian campground.
• Vault Toilets: Basic vault toilets are provided for human waste disposal, consistent with a rustic state forest campground.
• Potable Water (Hand Pump Well): Potable water is available from a hand pump well, providing a crucial water source for both campers and their horses.
• Equestrian Day-Use and Staging Area: Near the campground entrance, this area offers ample parking, four picket poles, a manure pit, and direct access to the trails for day-riders.
• ADA-Accessible Mounting Ramp: An accessible mounting ramp is available in the equestrian day-use and staging area, ensuring inclusivity for riders with accessibility needs.
• Reservable Sites: Unlike many state forest campgrounds, all 9 sites at Headquarters Lake can be reserved online via MiDNRReservations.com or by phone, offering peace of mind for those traveling long distances. Walk-ins are also allowed.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for traditional camping activities.
• Trash Pickup: Garbage disposal services are available, helping to keep the campground clean.

While rustic, these services ensure a comfortable and functional stay for horse enthusiasts, addressing their unique needs while providing fundamental camping amenities.

Headquarters Lake Equestrian State Forest Campground and Trail Camp offers several distinct features that make it a compelling choice for equestrian campers and nature lovers in Michigan:

• Dedicated Equestrian Focus: This is its defining highlight. The campground is specifically "intended for those camping with horses," making it a specialized and welcoming community for trail riders. Options for horse camping are limited in the area, making this site highly valued.
• Extensive Equestrian Trail System: The campground provides direct access to a 25-mile marked multi-use trail system, primarily composed of sandy two-tracks. These trails offer varied terrain and opportunities for long rides.
• Ride to Lake Superior: A significant draw is the "18-mile round trip ride through breathtaking landscapes" that leads to Lake Superior. This unique opportunity to explore the stunning shoreline on horseback is a must-do for many visitors.
• Beautiful Lakeside Setting: Situated on the shore of Headquarters Lake, many sites offer direct water views and access, enhancing the natural beauty of the camping experience.
• Reservable Sites: The ability to reserve all 9 sites online or by phone is a major convenience, especially for equestrians traveling with horses and trailers who need guaranteed accommodations. Walk-ins are also accepted.
• Spacious and Level Sites: Sites are noted for being "nice camping areas," with some being back-in sites situated on the lake and pull-throughs in the circular drive, and recent improvements like leveling have been made for accessibility.
• ADA Accessibility: The presence of an ADA-accessible mounting ramp in the day-use area ensures that the joy of trail riding is accessible to a wider range of individuals.
• Proximity to Other Attractions & Services: While the campground itself is rustic, Muskallonge Lake State Park (5 miles north on CR407) offers Wi-Fi, showers, and a sanitation station for a fee. Nearby Deer Park Lodge (a general store) and The Uglyfish Bakery provide convenient access to supplies and treats.
• Year-Round Operation: The campground is open year-round, although roads may not be plowed in winter, offering opportunities for cold-weather enthusiasts.

These highlights combine to create a comprehensive and specialized camping experience that is truly tailored to the equestrian community and those seeking a serene, rustic getaway in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

For reservations or more information about Headquarters Lake Equestrian State Forest Campground and Trail Camp, you can utilize the following contact details:

Address: Newberry, MI 49868, USA

Phone for Reservations: (800) 447-2757 (Michigan DNR Central Reservation System)

Local Park Contact (Muskallonge Lake State Park, which manages this campground): (906) 658-3338 (You can ask for Kelly Gribbell for specific questions about the equestrian camp).

It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially since all 9 sites can be reserved. This is particularly important for those traveling with horses and trailers, as it guarantees a spot upon arrival. You can also visit the MiDNRReservations.com website for online booking and detailed information. Always check the Michigan DNR website for the most current information regarding fees, operating seasons, and any alerts or trail conditions before your visit.

For Michigan residents, particularly those with a passion for horses and trail riding, Headquarters Lake Equestrian State Forest Campground and Trail Camp represents an unparalleled and highly suitable local destination. This campground is not just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a thoughtfully designed hub that caters directly to the unique needs of the equestrian community within our own state.

Its primary appeal for locals lies in its specialization. Given the limited options for horse camping in the region, Headquarters Lake fills a crucial niche, providing dedicated sites and facilities like manure pits and an ADA-accessible mounting ramp that ensure both riders and their horses are comfortable and well-cared for. This allows Michigan equestrians to enjoy their hobby without the logistical challenges often associated with traveling with horses.

Furthermore, the direct access to an extensive, marked trail system, including the highly desirable 18-mile round trip ride to the shores of Lake Superior, offers a truly unique and memorable experience that is hard to find elsewhere. This allows Michiganders to explore the breathtaking wilderness of their own Upper Peninsula from a completely different perspective, creating lasting memories with their equine partners.

The ability to reserve sites in advance, a rare feature for rustic state forest campgrounds, provides essential peace of mind for those making the journey. This convenience, combined with the picturesque lakeside setting and the quiet, natural ambiance, makes Headquarters Lake Equestrian State Forest Campground and Trail Camp an ideal local getaway. It’s a place where Michigan's trail riding community can gather, explore, and forge deeper connections with both nature and their beloved horses, fostering a sense of adventure and camaraderie right here in the heart of our state.

Headquarters Lake Equestrian State Forest Campground and Trail Camp

Newberry, MI 49868, USA