Backbone Horse Campground serves equestrians camping in the Finger Lakes region with year-round availability. Located in Burdett, New York, the campground offers large sites specifically designed to accommodate horses and trailers. The campground features toilet facilities and trash collection while maintaining a rustic, primitive camping experience. Sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with a nominal fee collected through an honor system.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: The lack of light pollution makes Backbone Horse Campground ideal for night sky viewing. "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife. We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night," notes Ian A., who visited the campground.
Dark sky viewing: At Lyman Run State Park Campground, visitors can experience exceptional stargazing within a gold-level dark sky area. "Cherry Springs is about 8 miles away. We like staying at Lyman Run since Cherry Springs gets filled pretty quickly," explains Peggy S. The park provides access to astronomical phenomena rarely visible in populated areas.
Water recreation: The lake at Lyman Run offers swimming, fishing, and boating options for campers. "There's a beach with concessions stand and paddle boats on the lake with the prettiest skyline surrounding the lake," writes Jennifer P. The lake provides trout and bluegill fishing opportunities with boat rentals available for visitors without personal watercraft.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many horse campgrounds near Almond, New York provide ample separation between camping areas. "Large camp sites have room for all your horses and horse paraphernalia," reports Harry H. about Backbone Horse Campground. The spacious design accommodates trailers and camping gear while maintaining a sense of seclusion.
Clean facilities: Tompkins Campground maintains well-kept amenities despite its rustic setting. "Spots are level and paved. It is always clean. There is a beach for swimming, marina for boating and the sites are huge and grassy," according to Stacey C., who visits annually.
Quiet atmosphere: The relative remoteness of equestrian camping facilities near the Finger Lakes creates peaceful camping conditions. Heather D. notes about Backbone Horse Campground: "We seen maybe three people pass through the three days/two nights we were there." This low traffic volume contributes to the serene environment, particularly outside peak season.
What you should know
Limited cell coverage: Connectivity is sparse throughout the region. "No Verizon phone service and very slow internet with a booster," reports a visitor to Tompkins Campground. This communication limitation requires advance planning for emergency contacts and navigation.
Distance to services: The remote location of Asaph Campground means campers should arrive with supplies. "The nearest town is almost 45+ minutes away," notes a reviewer about a nearby campground. Stock up on necessities before arrival as onsite stores and markets are limited.
Seasonal considerations: Weather conditions affect trail access and camping comfort significantly. A reviewer advises: "Call Finger Lakes National Forest to make sure trails aren't closed due to weather, spring melt, etc." Spring thaws frequently render bridle paths impassable, particularly in March and April.
Tips for camping with families
Explore nearby attractions: Plan day trips to regional landmarks. "We were able to use Lyman Run as a way station as we visited Kinzua, the PA Grand Canyon, and other sites in the PA Woods area," suggests Bill G. These excursions provide educational opportunities for children between camping days.
Creek access: Big Woods North Campsites and similar areas feature water features for children. "Little creek runs beside it for kids to play and explore," mentions Jennifer P. about a neighboring campground. These natural water features provide entertainment for younger campers.
Playground availability: Some campgrounds maintain play areas, though usage varies. "We stayed on site 44 right across from the seldom used playground," notes a Tompkins Campground visitor. The uncrowded facilities allow children to play without competing for equipment access.
Tips from RVers
Paved parking pads: Tompkins Campground offers solid surfaces for larger vehicles. "All roads and parking pads are paved," explains Bran P., making the campground accessible for RVs even after rain. The improved surfaces prevent sinking and rutting common at less developed sites.
Hookup limitations: Equestrian campgrounds typically provide minimal services for recreational vehicles. At Backbone Horse Campground, no electric or water hookups exist, requiring self-contained camping. Prepare for boondocking conditions with fully charged batteries and filled water tanks.
Site selection for satellite reception: Tree coverage affects connectivity for RVs requiring satellite service. "Quite wooded here but we managed to get satellite TV," mentions a camper at Tompkins. Request less wooded sites when making reservations if satellite access is necessary for communications or entertainment.
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