Fort Custer State Recreation Area is a sprawling 3,033-acre park nestled between Battle Creek and Kalamazoo, Michigan. This natural oasis boasts a diverse landscape, including three picturesque lakes, the scenic Kalamazoo River, and an array of outdoor recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy.
A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts
The park features a modern equestrian campground that caters specifically to horseback riders and their trusty steeds. Campers can enjoy spacious campsites equipped with amenities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and easy access to water and restrooms. The campground provides a perfect base for exploring the park's extensive trail network, which spans over 40 miles and offers riders a chance to immerse themselves in Michigan's stunning natural beauty.
Rich in History
Originally farmland, Fort Custer State Recreation Area has a rich history dating back to its days as Camp Custer, a military training center for the U.S. Army during World War II. The area's transformation from military training grounds to a recreational haven is a testament to its enduring natural beauty and the importance of preserving Michigan's wilderness for future generations to enjoy.
Plan Your Adventure
Whether you're looking to spend a relaxing weekend camping with your horse or embark on an exciting trail ride through Michigan's wilderness, Fort Custer Equestrian Camp offers something for everyone. Come experience the beauty and tranquility of this remarkable park and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Directions:
From I-75, exit 38, travel west on KY 192. Go 24.5 miles to Old Whitney Road on the left. Follow signs to the campground.
From Somerset, take KY 192 east for 21 miles. Turn right on Old Whitney Road. Follow signs to the campground.
Fort Custer Equestrian Camp offers the following facilities and amenities:
- Equestrian trails
- Cabins
- Hookups
- Rustic campgrounds
- Parking lot
- Fire ring
- Picnic table
- Gravel pad
- Picket poles
- Sand footing
- Hand pump
- Covered pavilion
Equestrian Camping
Relax after a ride at this new rustic equestrian campground positioned along the north and east perimeters of the large equestrian staging area/parking lot. Sites feature a fire ring, picnic table, gravel pad, and three to four picket poles surrounded by a sand footing for easy drainage and cleanup. Water is available at a hand pump. Portable corrals are allowed.
A covered pavilion with picnic tables and a charcoal grill is available in the campground.
There are roughly 20 miles of equestrian trails available for riding on the Fort Custer Equestrian Trail and Blue Trail.
Cost Details:
- Call for details
Notes:
- Pets must be kept on a 6-foot leash and must never be left unattended. Please clean up after your animals.
- Campers may only camp for up to 15 consecutive nights. Campsites must be occupied each night. Two vehicles are allowed per campsite. Visitors must leave by 10 pm. Fireworks are not permitted.
- Don’t Move Firewood.
- Reservations can be made by visiting midnrreservations.com or by calling 1-800-44-PARKS (1-800-447-2757). For more information, visit Michigan.gov/StateParks.
- Contact Details: Fort Custer-Equestrian Campground 800-447-2757
If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:
STAMPEDE RUN HORSE CAMP - Indian Creek and North Flat Rock Trail
DANIEL BOONE NATIONAL FOREST - Sheltowee Trace: Flat Rock to KY 700
Fort Custer Equestrian Camp does require reservations for overnight accommodations. Please visit their page here on Top Horse Trails - Fort Custer Equestrian Camp for more information