Luzerne Horse Trail Campground And Trailhead

4.33

21 reviews

5761 N. Skeel Road, Oscoda, MI 48750

Quick Facts

600 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

21 campsites

Season

April 1 - November 3...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Huron-Manistee National Forests site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

600 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

21 campsites

Season

April 1 - November 3...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Huron-Manistee National Forests site

Official Website

Get Directions

Luzerne Horse Trail Campground And Trailhead

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

No fees are required for this site.

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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USFS

Provider

(989) 739-0728

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What Campers Say

4.33

Recommended

Based on 21 reviews

17 Google reviews

"Reviews highlight the campground's well-maintained facilities and its suitability for both hikers and horse riders. Some negative feedback mentions seasonal issues like gypsy moth infestations."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

5761 N. Skeel Road, Oscoda, MI 48750

Luzerne Horse Trail Campground And Trailhead

5761 N. Skeel Road, Oscoda, MI 48750

Driving directionsFrom Grayling, travel east on M-72 for 22 miles. Turn right and travel south on Deeter Rd./CR-F490 for 2 miles. Turn left and travel south on Durfee Rd./FR 4551 for 1 mile. The site is located on the left.

The campground is accessible via paved roads initially, but the access road and/or parking is not plowed during winter months. Seasonal gating of the site is implemented in the off-season.

Nearby places

Grayling: 22 miles, Wellston: null miles (distance not explicitly stated)

Nearby supplies

Supplies are available in Oscoda, MI (location of the ranger station)

further details not provided.

Best Time to Camp at Luzerne Horse Trail Campground And Trailhead

Each season paints Luzerne with its own dramatic brushstrokes. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with snow blanketing the trails and temperatures that demand cozy campfires. As spring awakens the forest, crisp mornings give way to increasingly warm afternoons, perfect for those first rides of the season. Summer brings ideal camping weather, with comfortable temperatures that invite long days on the trail, while early fall showcases nature's grand finale in a symphony of colors before the cycle begins anew.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Open in summer but reviews note gypsy moth infestations can affect experience.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Scenic forest setting and trails; reviews are positive about fall visits.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Top 14% in MI

Open from April; trails and cedar swamp scenery make spring attractive.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed in winter (open Apr 1 - Nov 30).

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Specific peak season dates are not indicated.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: April 1 - November 30.
Current Alerts: Seasonal gate closures are in effect, and facilities are not maintained in winter.

About Luzerne Horse Trail Campground And Trailhead

Nestled within the sprawling wilderness of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, Luzerne Horse Trail Campground beckons equestrian adventurers to experience Michigan's pristine backcountry from the saddle. This thoughtfully designed horse camping haven features spacious sites that easily accommodate trailers of all sizes, while the enchanting Big Creek/Luzerne boardwalk winds through an ancient cedar swamp, offering riders and hikers alike a journey through one of nature's most mystical ecosystems. Modern amenities including vault toilets and a reliable hand pump ensure comfort without compromising the authentic wilderness experience.

Marzinski Horse Campground is an equestrian-focused campground with facilities designed to cater to horse riders. It has combined sites suitable for tent and RV camping.

Historical SignificanceLuzerne stands as a proud waypoint along the legendary Michigan Shore-to-Shore Horse Trail, a historic route that has connected riders across the state for generations. This storied path represents more than just a trail—it's a living testament to Michigan's equestrian heritage, where countless hoofbeats have carved a legacy through the wilderness, connecting Lake Michigan to Lake Huron in an epic journey that continues to inspire modern adventurers.

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Luzerne with its own dramatic brushstrokes. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with snow blanketing the trails and temperatures that demand cozy campfires. As spring awakens the forest, crisp mornings give way to increasingly warm afternoons, perfect for those first rides of the season. Summer brings ideal camping weather, with comfortable temperatures that invite long days on the trail, while early fall showcases nature's grand finale in a symphony of colors before the cycle begins anew.

ElevationPerched at a gentle 600 feet above sea level, Luzerne offers the perfect elevation for year-round camping comfort. This modest altitude creates an ideal microclimate that moderates summer heat while providing crisp, refreshing air that horses and riders alike will appreciate after a day on the trails.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into an ethereal world where ancient cedars rise from mysterious swamp waters, their gnarled roots creating natural sculptures in the misty morning light. The campground's crown jewel—its rare cedar swamp ecosystem—provides an otherworldly backdrop for your adventures, while towering pines stand sentinel around the camping areas, their whispered conversations providing nature's perfect soundtrack. The interplay of water, wood, and wildlife creates endless photographic moments and memories that linger long after the journey home.

Geological RegionThe campground occupies a fascinating geological niche within the Huron-Manistee National Forests, where ancient glacial activity carved out the depression that now cradles the cedar swamp ecosystem. The Big Creek/Luzerne boardwalk traverses this remarkable wetland, showcasing a rare glimpse into Michigan's pre-settlement landscape—a living museum where time seems to slow among the moss-draped cedars and mirror-still waters.

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Check-in

Check-in is allowed 24 hours a day.

Check-out

Check-out is allowed 24 hours a day.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit: 14 days.

Groups

No specific group sites are mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutSingle-loop equestrian campground layout among mature Jack and Red pine.

Reservation PlatformsCamping at this site does not require reservations.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served; reservation is not required.

Cancellation PolicyNo information provided.

AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair accessible.

Site SizeAll sites are level and can accommodate portable corrals for horses.

PrivacyThe sites are tucked among mature Jack and Red pines, providing some level of privacy.

Total Campsites21 campsites

Recommended SitesRecommendations are not provided.

Amenities available

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The Marzinski Horse Campground offers a range of recreational activities largely centered on its 20-mile trail system, making it a popular choice for horseback riders and hikers. Additionally, it provides opportunities for winter sports such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

HikingThe campground provides access to Hayburn, Big Wheel, and Bullside trails, part of the Marzinski Horse Trail, a 20-mile network.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsGypsy moth infestations are noted as a concern by user reviews. Winter conditions bring snow and freezing temperatures, making access challenging.

Active AlertsSeasonal gate closures are in effect, and facilities are not maintained in winter.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyFire policies are not explicitly stated.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Forest quiet hours apply.

Emergency ServicesHuron Shores Ranger Station: Address: 5761 N. Skeel Road, Oscoda, MI 48750. Phone: (989) 739-0728. Hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (Closed on federal holidays). For emergency services, hospitals and police stations are not explicitly stated.

Trash & RecyclingThis is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out facility; campers are responsible for handling their own waste and recycling.

Water FeaturesNo direct proximity to lakes, rivers, or other water bodies.

Camp HostHost information is not provided.

Weather at Luzerne Horse Trail Campground And Trailhead

Reviews

4.3

21 reviews

Recommended

Luzerne Horse Trail Campground And Trailhead is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews highlight the campground's well-maintained facilities and its suitability for both hikers and horse riders. Some negative feedback mentions seasonal issues like gypsy moth infestations.

Review Summaries

Based on 21 reviews

What Campers Love

Campground is well-kept, safe, and features beautiful trails.

Based on 21 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users have complained about gypsy moth infestations during certain seasons.

Based on 21 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend visiting as part of the Shore to Shore Trail for a complete experience.

Based on 21 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months may experience gypsy moth infestations, but the campground is otherwise safe and scenic year-round.

Based on 21 reviews

Camper Quotes

"A well kept and managed park for hikers and horse riders alike!" - Kathy Hedrick. "Beautiful place to camp, but the gypsy moths were horrible." - Susan Ledbetter.

Based on 21 reviews