The Finger Lakes National Forest offers designated horse campgrounds with large sites capable of accommodating trailers, camping gear, and equestrian equipment. Equestrian camping near Big Flats, New York provides direct access to forest trail systems while maintaining rustic, primitive conditions. The area sits at approximately 1,900 feet elevation with rolling hills and valleys that create varied terrain for horseback riding and hiking throughout the region.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Backbone Horse Campground connects directly to the Finger Lakes National Forest trail system. According to camper Harry H., "Large camp sites have room for all your horses and horse paraphernalia. Call Finger Lakes National Forest to make sure trails aren't closed due to weather, spring melt, etc."
Swimming and boating: Tompkins Campground features water recreation options on the adjacent lake. "There is a beach for swimming, marina for boating and the sites are huge and grassy," notes Stacey C. The campground is managed by the Army Corps of Engineers due to the dam system.
Stargazing: Light pollution is minimal at most forest camping areas. Ian A. reports about Backbone Horse Campground: "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife. We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night!"
What campers like
Spacious sites: Tompkins Campground offers generous camping areas. "All roads and parking pads are paved. The sites are closer together than most other COE parks where we've stayed," mentions Bran P. The campground includes waterfront options in the Bench Loop area.
Solitude: Many visitors appreciate the lack of crowds at Backbone Horse Campground. Heather D. shares, "We seen maybe three people pass through the three days/two nights we were there. A Sheriff's truck did drive through Saturday morning just to patrol."
Central location: Positioned near regional attractions including state parks. "We're centrally located to do and see everything from waterfalls, trails, vineyards and so on," explains Brenley R. about using Backbone Horse Campground as a base for exploring.
What you should know
Payment systems: Most campgrounds utilize honor-based payment collection. At Backbone Horse Campground, Heather D. mentions: "Payment of the low fee is on the honor system and check in/out is very flexible."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts trail conditions significantly. For horseback riders, Harry H. advises, "Call Finger Lakes National Forest to make sure trails aren't closed due to weather, spring melt, etc." Trail closures can occur without notice.
Connectivity limitations: Stony Fork Creek Campground has limited technology access. Brandon W. notes, "No cell service and WiFi isn't reliable if that's what you need or are looking for."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Certain private campgrounds offer swimming facilities. MJ B. reports that at Stony Fork Creek Campground, "The pool was nice and the rec center had a lot of activities for kids. The pond offered fishing and pedal boat rentals."
Activity options: Campgrounds often provide recreational opportunities beyond hiking. "The rec center had a lot of activities for kids," confirms MJ B., while also noting proximity to attractions like Leonard Harrison State Park.
Noise considerations: Family-friendly environments vary by campground. Gina M. cautions about Stony Fork Creek: "My only complaint is that other campers did not respect quiet hours and it took the campground staff too long to ask them to quiet down."
Tips from RVers
Site facilities: Asaph Campground in Tioga State Forest provides electric hookups with both 30-amp and 50-amp options, water hookups, and sewer connections for self-contained units. No dump stations are available on site.
Road conditions: Access varies significantly between campgrounds. Greg W. appreciates that at Stony Fork Creek Campground, "All of the roads were paved and sites were very large," making navigation simpler for larger rigs.
Seasonal camping options: Some campgrounds accommodate longer-term stays. Jean T. observed at Stony Fork, "It looks like they are about 50% seasonal," indicating options for extended camping arrangements during the operating season.
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