Group seeks support for proposed campground

MASS CITY — Michigan Trails and Recreation Alliance of Land and the Environment is garnering support for an equestrian campground at the Simar Landing Strip in Mass City.

In a letter requesting support from local groups and state officials, Cathy Wainio, of MI-TRALE, noted the organization is in the business of helping build and improve trail recreation across the five western Upper Peninsula counties.

The group presently maintains and improves off-road vehicle and equestrian trails under MI-TRALE support and maintenance agreements with the Ottawa National Forest and Department of Natural Resources.

Wainio said MI-TRALE is working on a new venue for the area, an equestrian campground, to further increase tourism. The group is looking for letters of support for the project, which does not use any local funding, but DNR funds.

There are no campgrounds within a 100-mile radius that welcome horses and riders. MI-TRALE is proposing an equestrian-designated campground open to everyone, with 19 campsites, corrals or picket lines, latrines, a well, a day parking area, fire pits and a common area for people to gather.

Wainio said the campground would complement the existing Courtney Lake Equestrian Trails located across the road and connect to potential Houghton County trails.

Letters or offers of support can be sent to MI-TRALE, P.O. Box 43, Ontonagon MI 49953.