Backbone Horse Campground provides designated equestrian camping near Avoca, New York, within the Finger Lakes National Forest. Located in the rolling hills of western New York at approximately 1,900 feet elevation, the area features a mix of hardwood forests and open meadows. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing while summer months typically range from 70-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Trail riding access: Backbone Horse Campground connects directly to multiple horse-friendly trails throughout the Finger Lakes National Forest. "Large camp sites have room for all your horses and horse paraphernalia," notes Harry H. in his review of Backbone Horse Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location offers exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife. We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night!" according to Ian A. who camped at Backbone Horse Campground.
Scenic drives: The surrounding region features numerous country roads through rolling farmland and vineyards. "This area is pretty with rolling hills all around so we enjoyed a couple of scenic drives," writes Bran P. about camping at Tompkins Campground, which is accessible from the Avoca area.
What campers like
Privacy and solitude: Horse camping facilities near Avoca offer considerable space between sites and often low occupancy rates. "We had the whole place to ourselves... We seen maybe three people pass through the three days/two nights we were there," reports Heather D. about her stay at Backbone Horse Campground.
Central location: Equestrian camping sites provide convenient access to regional attractions. "You're centrally located to do and see everything from waterfalls, trails, vineyards and so on," explains Brenley R. regarding the camping options near Avoca.
Natural surroundings: The peaceful environment allows campers to enjoy wildlife observation and natural sounds. "It is always clean. There is a beach for swimming, marina for boating and the sites are huge and grassy," reports Stacey C. about Tompkins Campground.
What you should know
Payment systems: Campground payment methods vary across the region. "Payment of the low fee is on the honor system and check in/out is very flexible," explains Heather D. about the process at Backbone Horse Campground.
Campground designation: Some sites prioritize equestrian users. "This campground is apparently ONLY for horse owners with their horses. After another camper made a passive aggressive comment about us being here without horse, we attempted to find another location," shares Brenley R. from Backbone Horse Campground.
Weather impacts: Trail conditions can change rapidly with weather events. "Call Finger Lakes National Forest to make sure trails aren't closed due to weather, spring melt, etc.," advises Harry H., an experienced equestrian camper in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select campgrounds offer recreational facilities for children. "Our second week, we stayed on site 44 (FHU 50A) right across from the seldom used playground," notes Bran P. about Tompkins Campground.
Water activities: Swimming options exist at certain campgrounds near the Avoca region. "There is a beach for swimming, marina for boating and the sites are huge and grassy," mentions Stacey C. about family-friendly amenities.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers numerous opportunities for animal observation. "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife," reports Ian A., highlighting natural educational opportunities for children camping in the area.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers should research pad sizes before arrival. "All roads and parking pads are paved. The sites are closer together than most other COE parks where we've stayed," explains Bran P. from their RV camping experience at Tompkins Campground.
Connectivity challenges: Limited cell service affects many campgrounds in the region. "No Verizon phone service and very slow internet with a booster," warns Bran P. about connectivity issues RVers should anticipate.
Hookup availability: Electric and water options vary between campgrounds. "We stayed in the Bench Loop which is very busy since it is waterfront. Our first week, we were on site 54 (W/E 50A) and waterfront," shares Bran P. about their RV setup at Tompkins.
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