Brighton Trail riders association
Preserving Trails, Supporting Riders, Building Community
Brighton Trail Riders Association is a volunteer, non-profit partner of the Michigan DNR dedicated to maintaining and protecting the equestrian trails and campground at Brighton Recreation Area. We welcome riders, volunteers, and supporters who value responsible trail use and shared stewardship.
Open to all equestrians • Family-friendly • In partnership with the Michigan DNR
Connecting riders and welcoming new friends.
Brighton Trail Riders Association (BTRA) is a nonprofit, volunteer-run friends group of the Michigan DNR. Together, we maintain and improve the equestrian trails and campground at Brighton Recreation Area - so riders, families, and horses can enjoy safe, scenic adventures for years to come.
Whether you camp for the weekend, trailer in for a day ride, or are just getting started with horses, you will find a welcoming, supportive community that looks out for each other - and for Brighton’s beautiful natural spaces.
- Non-profit partner supporting the Michigan DNR
- Trail and campground maintenance & improvements
- Educational focused and family-friendly events
- Volunteer opportunities for all skill and comfort levels
Come Ride with Us!
Trails & equestrian camping
Miles of equestrian trails and a horse-friendly campground.
Brighton Recreation Area offers 21 miles of diverse, wooded terrain, rolling hills, and well-marked loops designed for horses and hikers. BTRA works closely with the Michigan DNR to keep trails rideable, safe, and clearly signed throughout the season.
Trail overview
Ride-ready loops
Multiple interconnected loops from easy to moderate, with scenic lake views, forest canopies, and well-marked trailheads.
- Dedicated equestrian trail system
- Trail signage at each trailhead
- Seasonal maintenance & brushing
Horse camping
Stay under the stars
Equestrian-friendly sites with access to corrals, hitching posts, and trailheads, so you can settle in and ride right from camp.
- Equestrian campground managed by Michigan DNR
- Designed for trailers and living quarters
- Quiet hours and horse-friendly etiquette
Know before You go
Plan your visit
Check conditions, maps, and current guidelines so your trip is relaxing, safe, and enjoyable for you, your horse, and fellow visitors.
Trail maps and mileage
DNR rules & park permits
Directions, contact information, etc.
Membership & community
Join Brighton Trail Riders Association.
When you become a BTRA member, you are helping preserve the equestrian trails and campground at Brighton Recreation Area - and you gain a circle of riders who are happy to share knowledge, campfires, and trail adventures.
- Invitations to organized rides and campground gatherings
- Updates on trail projects and improvements
- Opportunities to volunteer and give back at your own pace
- A stronger voice for local equestrian recreation
All experience levels are welcome—no horse ownership required to support the trails.
Stay in the loop
Join our Facebook Group to receive updates about events, volunteer days, and trail news.
2026 BTRA Board Members
Penny Wilson - President
Amy Longhi - Vice President
Pat Stachowiak - Secretary
Agnes Wallace - Treasurer
Pete Andrews - Trails
Mike Connelly
Darlene Dunlop
Edna Money
Gayle Pawl
Volunteer opportunities
Help care for the trails you love.
BTRA volunteer opportunities are family friendly, hands-on, and tailored to all ages and abilities. Some members swing loppers, others paint signs, others help at the registration table or bring snacks. Every role matters.
- Trail work bees and clean-up days
- Board membership to drive BTRA future plans
- Fundraising and event support
- Social media, outreach, and education
Upcoming events
Ride, learn, and connect.
BTRA hosts trail rides, work bees, and our Spring Fling fund raiser throughout the year. Many events are family-friendly and perfect for meeting other riders.
Poker Ride with weekend camping event in September
Educational clinics and demos
Spring Fling Banquet with Pinckney Trail Riders
Trail work & camp clean-up work bees
For a current event list and details, follow Brighton Trail Riders Association on Facebook.
Trail etiquette keeps trails safe, peaceful, and welcoming for all riders, hikers, and campers.
Education & trail etiquette
Ride responsibly, share the space, and keep Brighton beautiful.
BTRA helps educate riders and campers on best practices so everyone (two-legged and four-legged) can enjoy the Brighton trails safely. We support Leave No Trace principles and follow DNR rules designed to protect the land and wildlife.
- Ride at a safe pace and yield courteously on shared sections
- Stay on marked equestrian trails to prevent erosion and damage
- Clean up manure in common areas and around camping spots
- Secure food and trash to avoid attracting wildlife
- Respect quiet hours and other campers’ space
Support the trails
Your support keeps Brighton’s equestrian trails open and thriving.
As a volunteer-run, non-profit friend group of the Michigan DNR, Brighton Trail Riders Association relies on memberships, donations, and sponsorships to fund trail improvements, signage, campground projects, and educational events.
Become a member
Annual memberships directly support trail work and campground projects while connecting you with fellow riders.
Make a donation
One-time or recurring gifts help fund materials, tools, and special projects that protect and enhance the trail system.
Join as a business member
Local businesses and organizations can partner with BTRA to sponsor projects, events, or amenities that serve the equestrian community.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions from riders and campers.
Still wondering about something? Reach out - our volunteers are happy to help you plan a safe, enjoyable visit.
Do I need to be an experienced rider to join BTRA?
No. Brighton Trail Riders Association welcomes riders of all experience levels, as well as supporters who do not currently ride. Our community includes brand-new riders, lifelong equestrians, and friends and family members who simply love the trails.
Are the trails and campground only for members?
No. The equestrian trails and campground at Brighton Recreation Area are managed by the Michigan DNR and open to the public. BTRA helps maintain and improve these spaces through volunteer work, fundraising, and education so everyone can enjoy them.
How do I reserve an equestrian campsite?
Campsite reservations are handled through the Michigan DNR’s reservation system. Visit the DNR website and search for Brighton Recreation Area Equestrian Campground to view availability and make a reservation.
I don’t have much time—can I still volunteer?
Absolutely. We offer many ways to plug in, from a few hours at a trail work day to helping with check-in at an event or sharing information online. Any amount of time or support is appreciated.
How do I get to Brighton Recreation Area?
Brighton Recreation Area is located on Chilson Road which is conveniently accessed from both I-96 and US-23 in the Brighton / Howell area. Enter the park at the DNR office and follow the Horse Staging / Equestrian Parking signs.
Ready to ride with us?
Reach out with questions about membership, volunteering, events, or supporting BTRA. We are glad you are here.
- Ask about joining or renewing your membership
- Request information on upcoming volunteer days
- Share ideas for projects, clinics, or events
- Learn how your business can partner with BTRA
Email us at: [email protected]
Location: Brighton Recreation Area, 6360 Chilson Road, Howell, Michigan 48843
Brighton Trail Riders Association is a volunteer-run, non-profit friend group of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
© 2026 Brighton Trail Riders Association. All rights reserved.
Brighton Trail Riders Association is an independent non-profit partner and does not represent the Michigan DNR.