Twenty-one spacious sites designed for horse trailers accommodate RVs and tent campers throughout this forest service campground. The road in remains accessible for most vehicles, though some reviewers note rougher conditions in spots. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table, with hitching posts scattered throughout for equestrian visitors.
Pine trees provide natural shade across the campground, which operates as a free facility from May through Labor Day with a two-week stay limit. A hand-pump water source serves both horses and campers, while a well-maintained pit toilet handles restroom needs. Cell coverage varies by carrier, with Verizon and Visible users reporting good service while T-Mobile remains spotty.
The campground sits within campgrounds around Manistee National Forest and offers easy access to equestrian trails. Firewood sales operate across the street from the entrance. "Site was clean, across street you can buy firewood," notes Mario F. about the convenient setup.
Towns with gas stations and supply stores sit about 20 minutes away by vehicle. Book ahead during peak season, as the large, level sites and free camping draw both horse enthusiasts and regular campers seeking forest access.
Description
Overview
The Marzinski Horse Trail and Campground were developed for the horse enthusiasts, who enjoy riding through a forested quiet trail system. The Marzinski Horse Camp serves as the primary access location for the 18 miles of horse trail.
Recreation
The Marzinski Horse Trail is open to non-motorized use only. They are designed for horse riders but may be used by hikers as well. The trail is accessed by either the Marzinski Trailhead and Campground or the Steinberg Trailhead. Neither trailhead is maintained for horse use in the winter months. The Forest Service and volunteers maintain the trail system, which is marked by oak-routed signs and posts and request that care is taken to keep the trail system clean. Pack it in, pack it out. Horse riders are asked not to access the Little Manistee River, which may accelerate erosion and to be careful when crossing adjacent county and forest roads.
Facilities
This campground has a day use area and 19 pull through sites with ample room for horses on each site. Hitching posts/poles are available at some sites. All sites include a picnic table and fire ring. The campground has one toilet building and one well for drinking water.
Natural Features
The campground is located in a white pine stand and offers quiet and privacy between camp sites. The Marzinski Horse Trail passes through mostly mixed pine with some hardwood vegetation types. Topography is mostly flat forested land with some small openings.
Nearby Attractions
Sand Lake Recreation Area Udell Rollways Day Use and Disc Golf Course Pine Lake Campground
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundManistee National Forest Marzinski Horse Trail Campground is located in Michigan
Directions
From Wellston - Travel east on M-55 for 8 miles. Turn left and travel south on Marzinski Rd. to the site.
Coordinates
44.225618 N
86.161485 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/2/26
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/2/26- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/2/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/2/26
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 7 min from Traverse City, MI
- 1 hr 24 min from Muskegon, MI
- 1 hr 48 min from Grand Rapids, MI
- 3 hrs 39 min from Sheboygan, WI
