McKinley Horse Trail Campground offers a unique camping experience in the heart of Michigan’s red pine plantations. Perfect for horse enthusiasts, this campground provides access to the renowned 240-mile Shore-to-Shore Horse Trail that stretches from Lake Michigan to Lake Huron. Whether you're seeking an adventurous ride through pine forests or a quiet escape with your four-legged companions, McKinley Horse Trail Campground is an ideal year-round destination.
A Perfect Campground for Equestrian Enthusiasts
The campground is designed with horse campers in mind. There are no designated campsites, allowing for flexibility when choosing your ideal camping spot. Fire rings are available, and a large parking lot easily accommodates trucks with horse trailers, ensuring convenience for campers with larger vehicles. This setup provides easy access to the Shore-to-Shore Horse Trail, one of Michigan’s most scenic and popular equestrian trails.
Endless Outdoor Recreation Opportunities
McKinley Horse Trail Campground isn’t just for horse riders. The campground is available year-round for a variety of outdoor activities, including hunting, backpacking, biking, and general camping. Visitors can take advantage of the proximity to some of Michigan’s most scenic areas, including the Au Sable National Scenic River and McKinley Landing. These areas provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking, adding to the diversity of outdoor activities accessible from the campground.
Explore the Shore-to-Shore Horse Trail
For those looking to experience Michigan’s natural beauty on horseback, the Shore-to-Shore Horse Trail offers endless exploration. Spanning 240 miles, this trail connects two of Michigan's most iconic bodies of water: Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. Along the way, riders can experience breathtaking landscapes, from dense forests to open meadows and river crossings, making it an unforgettable journey for both riders and horses.
Proximity to the Au Sable River and Scenic Riverlands
McKinley Horse Trail Campground offers easy access to the nearby Au Sable River and the Au Sable National Scenic River. These beautiful water bodies provide stunning backdrops for recreational activities and are perfect for those who want to explore more of Michigan’s outdoor offerings. Whether you’re fishing along the river or simply enjoying a scenic hike, the surrounding areas offer something for everyone.
A Gateway to Michigan’s Scenic Adventures
McKinley Horse Trail Campground is more than just a place to camp—it’s a gateway to some of Michigan’s most scenic landscapes and exciting equestrian adventures. Whether you're camping, riding, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, this year-round campground provides the perfect setting for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.
Directions:
From Grayling, travel east on M-72 for 30 miles. Turn left and travel north on M-72/M-33 for .5 miles. Turn right and travel east on McKinley Dr./CR-F32. Turn right and travel south on Evans Rd. for .5 miles. Turn right and travel west on CR-F602 for 2 miles. Turn right and travel north on FR 4004.
Facilities and Amenities at McKinley Horse Trail Campground
- Equestrian trails
- Fire rings
- Parking lot
- Vault toilet
- Water (not for drinking)
- Generator Driven Pump - 5,000 watts; generator not provided
Cost Details:
- Free to use
Seasonal and Other Information:
- This site is gated but not closed:
- The individual/family camping area is open year-round.
- This site is not maintained in winter:
- Access roads and/or parking are not plowed.
- No water and/or toilet facilities are available.
Notes:
- No reservation is needed. All sites are first come, first served.
- Special Use Permit - No special use permit is required for individuals or small groups (74 people or less). Permits are required for commercial, event, or large groups (75 people or more).
- 150 vehicle capacity - with trailers
- Prohibited Vehicles: Motorized and Oversnow
- Best Season: April 1 to November 14
- Contact Details: Phone: 989-826-3252 and Email: sm.fs.hmnf@usda.gov
If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:
Luzerne, Michigan - Luzerne Trail Camp to 4-Mile Trail Camp
McKinley Horse Trail Campground does not require reservations for overnight accommodations. For more information, please visit their page on Top Horse Trails - McKinley Horse Trail Campground.