Hungerford Equestrian Group Campsite

5.09

8 reviews

Forest Road 5134, Big Rapids, MI 49307, USA

Featured in:Group Camping Michigan#2 Spring Camping Michigan

Quick Facts

1,168 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

8 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Huron-Manistee National Forests site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,168 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

8 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Huron-Manistee National Forests site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Hungerford Equestrian Group Campsite

$75.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The nightly rate for the equestrian group campsite is $75 during the peak season, May 1 - October 31. Reservation fees apply and vary by method: $8...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

231-745-4631

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What Campers Say

5.09

Top-Rated

Based on 8 reviews

1 Google reviews

Most mentioned

locationsites

"The Hungerford Equestrian Group Campsite has received very positive feedback from users, particularly equestrian campers who appreciate the spacious sites and extensive trail system."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Forest Road 5134, Big Rapids, MI 49307, USA

Hungerford Equestrian Group Campsite

Forest Road 5134, Big Rapids, MI 49307, USA

Driving directionsFrom Big Rapids on US-131: Take M-20 west 8.5 miles to Cypress Ave. Go 0.5 miles north on Cypress Ave. Turn right on Hungerford Lake Drive and proceed 0.5 miles. Turn north on FR5134 and travel 2 miles to the group campsite.

Accessible via paved roads; final approach on Forest Road 5134 may be unpaved. Seasonal accessibility is not explicitly mentioned.

Nearby places

Big Rapids, MI (approximately 10 miles, 15-minute drive).

Nearby supplies

Big Rapids, MI provides options for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel approximately 10 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Hungerford Equestrian Group Campsite

Autumn transforms Hungerford into a masterpiece of color, where crimson maples and golden oaks create a breathtaking canopy overhead. Summer arrives with gentle warmth and refreshing forest breezes, offering perfect conditions for long days in the saddle and evening gatherings around the campfire. As winter approaches, the landscape shifts to a serene wonderland of snow-dusted pines and crystalline air, though freezing temperatures remind visitors to pack accordingly for cold-weather camping adventures.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.5 / 5

Open May–Oct; summer offers warm weather, trails, fishing and boating opportunities.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 15% in MI

Autumn described as a 'masterpiece' of color; fall foliage is a primary attraction.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Open in spring with trails ideal for riding and hiking; likely popular as season begins.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Reservations available May 1–Oct 31; campsite closed to reservations in winter.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 1 to October 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open for reservations May 1 to October 31.

About Hungerford Equestrian Group Campsite

Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure at Hungerford Equestrian Group Campsite, where the rhythmic hoofbeats of horses blend with the whispers of the forest. Nestled within the expansive Hungerford Recreation Area, this specialized campground opens the door to over 50 miles of scenic horseback riding trails that wind through Michigan's stunning wilderness. Mountain bikers will discover 10 miles of exhilarating paths, while purpose-built facilities cater to both horses and their riders, creating a true equestrian paradise where the bond between human and horse deepens with every trail explored.

The Hungerford Equestrian Group Campsite primarily caters to equestrian camping, with facilities designed to support horse trailers and riding activities. Standard camping is also possible.

Historical SignificanceThese ancient woods tell the story of Michigan's transformation from industrial powerhouse to conservation success. Once the heartbeat of thriving forest industries that helped build a nation, the surrounding 540,000-acre Manistee National Forest now stands as a testament to environmental stewardship and the enduring relationship between people and the land they cherish.

Weather and SeasonsAutumn transforms Hungerford into a masterpiece of color, where crimson maples and golden oaks create a breathtaking canopy overhead. Summer arrives with gentle warmth and refreshing forest breezes, offering perfect conditions for long days in the saddle and evening gatherings around the campfire. As winter approaches, the landscape shifts to a serene wonderland of snow-dusted pines and crystalline air, though freezing temperatures remind visitors to pack accordingly for cold-weather camping adventures.

Natural Features and SceneryGentle hills roll like ocean waves through the Manistee National Forest, creating a landscape that invites exploration at every turn. The shimmering waters of Hungerford Lake serve as the campground's jewel, while nearby Toogood Lake and Mud Lake offer quiet retreats for wildlife watching and peaceful reflection. This tapestry of forest and water creates an ever-changing vista where morning mist dances across the lakes and evening light filters through towering pines.

Geological RegionThe campground rests within the embrace of the magnificent 540,000-acre Manistee National Forest, where gently undulating hills create perfect riding terrain just inland from Lake Michigan's eastern shore. This remarkable ecosystem showcases Michigan's incredible biodiversity, from wildflower-dotted meadows to dense hardwood groves, all shaped by ancient glaciers and nurtured by the moderating influence of the Great Lakes.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

12 noon.

Check-out

12 noon.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Eight guests per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutEight individual sites can accommodate large horse trailers and vehicles. Facilities include picnic tables, lantern posts, fire rings, and picket poles.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, contact center, or in-person.

Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly stated, but individual sites operate on a rolling 6-month booking window.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations are not accepted within 7 days of arrival. Late cancellations apply starting 14 days before scheduled check-in, forfeiting the first night's fee plus a $10 cancellation fee.

AccessibilityWhile the campground provides basic facilities, there is no specific mention of accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeEach site is large enough to accommodate one large horse trailer, two vehicles, and up to eight people.

PrivacyNo specific mention of privacy levels, but the site's layout and equestrian focus suggest a spacious setup.

Total Campsites8 campsites

Recommended SitesGuests recommend sites for their spacious layout and proximity to trails. Consider campsite 1 based on positive reviews.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The Hungerford Equestrian Group Campsite is an ideal destination for equestrian and outdoor enthusiasts. Campers can enjoy over 47 miles of horseback riding trails and 10 miles of mountain biking trails. Nearby Hungerford Lake offers opportunities for fishing and boating, though horses are not allowed in the lake area.

HikingWith over 47 miles of horseback riding trails that can also be used for hiking and an additional 10 miles of mountain biking trails, the campground offers extensive opportunities for outdoor recreation.

FishingFishing is permitted in Hungerford Lake, located 1.25 miles south of the group campsite. Anglers can cast for bass, pike, and panfish. There is a boat ramp available at the lake.

BikingThe campground features 10 miles of mountain biking trails, providing opportunities for outdoor biking enthusiasts.

BoatingBoating is permitted on Hungerford Lake, which is accessible via a boat ramp.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential wildlife encounters typical of forested areas. Restrictions on firewood transport to prevent invasive pests.

Fire PolicyFires permitted only in designated fire rings. Collect only downed and dead wood.

Emergency ServicesBig Rapids offers emergency services such as hospitals and police stations approximately 10 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash disposal facilities are available, but specific details about recycling facilities are not provided.

Water FeaturesLocated 1.25 miles north of Hungerford Lake, which spans 30 acres and offers fishing and boating opportunities.

Weather at Hungerford Equestrian Group Campsite

Reviews

5.1

8 reviews

Top-Rated

Hungerford Equestrian Group Campsite is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

The Hungerford Equestrian Group Campsite has received very positive feedback from users, particularly equestrian campers who appreciate the spacious sites and extensive trail system.

Review Summaries

Based on 8 reviews

What Campers Love

"Large sites, plenty of space to spread out!" (Review by Kyle K.) "We love riding at Hungerford. It’s a beautiful location with perfect trails." (Review by Lee O.)

Based on 8 reviews

Common Concerns

No specific complaints are recorded in the reviews provided.

Based on 8 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Equestrian campers are advised to note that horses cannot be tied directly to trees, and corrals are not allowed. Campers should bring their own water or travel 1.25 miles south to access drinking...

Based on 8 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is likely most popular in the spring and fall, as the trails are ideal for riding and hiking, and the fall colors around Hungerford Lake are a noted attraction.

Based on 8 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Large sites, plenty of space to spread out!" (Review by Kyle K.) "We love riding at Hungerford. It’s a beautiful location with perfect trails." (Review by Lee O.) "Enjoyed our stay and beautiful...

Based on 8 reviews