Luzerne Horse Trail Campground And Trailhead
02 reviews5761 N. Skeel Road, Oscoda, MI 48750
Quick Facts
600 ftPrice
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
21 campsites
Season
April 1 - November 3...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
600 ftPrice
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
21 campsites
Season
April 1 - November 3...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsLuzerne 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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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USFS
Provider(989) 739-0728
What Campers Say
N/A
Limited Reviews
Based on 2 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."
Fees & Passes at Luzerne Horse Trail Campground And Trailhead
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay limit: 14 days.
Cancellation: No information provided.
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Huron-Manistee National Forests website.
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.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
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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Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeAll sites are level and can accommodate portable corrals for horses.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are tucked among mature Jack and Red pines, providing some level of privacy.
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommendations are not provided.
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Reserving a campsite
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 are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle-loop equestrian campground layout among mature Jack and Red pine.
Open and Closed SeasonApril 1 - November 30.
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.
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.
Hiking
The campground provides access to Hayburn, Big Wheel, and Bullside trails, part of the Marzinski Horse Trail, a 20-mile network.Winter Activities
Winter sports such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are available.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire policies are not explicitly stated.
- Quiet hours are Forest quiet hours apply.
Hazards
General hazardsGypsy 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.
Weather at Luzerne Horse Trail Campground And Trailhead
18
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Huron 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.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpecific peak season dates are not indicated.
Trash and recyclingThis is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out facility; campers are responsible for handling their own waste and recycling.
Proximity to water featuresNo direct proximity to lakes, rivers, or other water bodies.
Common complaintsSome users have noted gypsy moth infestations as unpleasant during their camping experience.
HostHost information is not provided.
Campground Map
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.
Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
2 reviews
Luzerne Horse Trail Campground And Trailhead has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Campground is well-kept, safe, and features beautiful trails.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users have complained about gypsy moth infestations during certain seasons.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend visiting as part of the Shore to Shore Trail for a complete experience.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months may experience gypsy moth infestations, but the campground is otherwise safe and scenic year-round.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper 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 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific site reviews provided.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets are wheelchair accessible, but no other specific accessibility reviews provided.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pet policies or experiences.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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