Skip to main content

Big Oaks Equestrian State Forest Campground

Big Oaks view

Big Oaks Equestrian State Forest Campground

This rustic equestrian campground is nestled on Avery Lake and offers opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, boating and fishing. All sites have picket posts and site #10 has corrals for two horses. There is also a submersible well that requires a 2,500 watt generator. The campground is located 10 miles southwest of Atlanta via County Road 487 and Avery Lake Road.

From the campground, equestrians can access Big Oaks Equestrian Trails and many state forest roads that are open to horseback riding.

This campground is maintained with the help of the Alpena County Horseman's Club

Recreation Passport required

A Recreation Passport (park pass) is required for vehicle entry into all state park and forest campgrounds.

Operating dates and amenities

View state forest campground rates. operating dates & amenities

State forest campground info

Find more info on state forest campgrounds.

Amenities & activities

horseback riding symbol

Equestrian

equestrian camping symbol

Equestrian camping

fishing symbol

Fishing

hiking

Hiking

paddling symbol

Paddling

rustic camping symbol

Rustic sites

vault toilet symbol

Vault toilet

water access symbol

Water access

horseback riding symbol

Equestrian

equestrian camping symbol

Equestrian camping

fishing symbol

Fishing

Perch, bass, pike, bluegill and walleye are caught in Avery Lake. Other nearby fishing opportunities include Crooked Lake (5 miles north) and Thunder Bay River (7 miles northeast).

hiking

Hiking

paddling symbol

Paddling

rustic camping symbol

Rustic sites

vault toilet symbol

Vault toilet

water access symbol

Water access

This rustic campground is located on Avery Lake.

Area map

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us for the latest on camping, trails, boating and Michigan's outdoors. You can also follow our Instagram!

You can view without an account.

Recreate Responsibly

Keep yourself, your friends and family, and the outdoors safe.

Camping rules

Guidelines for camping in a state forest.

Photos