Backbone Horse Campground accommodates both equestrian and non-equestrian campers in the Finger Lakes National Forest. Situated on forest service land, the campground provides primitive camping with basic amenities including trash collection and vault toilets. The campground features large, spacious sites specifically designed to accommodate horse trailers and equipment, though non-horse owners can utilize sites when space permits.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: The Finger Lakes region offers numerous hiking opportunities beyond the equestrian trails. Charles E. Baker State Forest provides "miles of trails" where visitors can enjoy "beautiful forest" terrain according to Matt A., who discovered the area while cycling through.
Night sky observation: The minimal light pollution creates ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts. Ian A. describes Backbone Horse Campground as the "perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife," noting they "had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night."
Casino entertainment: For campers seeking modern entertainment options, The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone offers "24 hour shuttles to the casino 5 minutes away, yet quiet and beautifully maintained," as April L. notes. The resort features additional amenities including "a pool, playground, hiking trail, fishing pond, paddleboat rentals, camp store, very clean bath houses throughout."
What campers like
Seasonal flexibility: Campers appreciate the year-round accessibility of equestrian camping near Blodgett Mills, New York. Carl G., a long-time visitor to The Villages RV Park, mentions "Memorial day weekend the weather is beautiful spring weather. Been coming here for 25 + years."
Privacy and solitude: Many visitors value the peaceful atmosphere these campgrounds provide. Heather D. shares that at Backbone Horse Campground, "We had the whole place to ourselves... 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: The strategic position provides convenient access to regional attractions. Brenley R. notes you're "centrally located to do and see everything from waterfalls, trails, vineyards and so on," making this an excellent base for exploring the wider Finger Lakes region.
What you should know
Dispersed camping options: For those seeking free primitive camping near Blodgett Mills, Cameron recommends Charles E. Baker State Forest: "Only found one designated campsite, which was available, but there's a lot of good space for dispersed camping right nearby. Access at the end of a long, but well maintained, dirt road."
Camping fees structure: Recent changes to camping fees may affect site availability. According to Brenley R., who stayed during Memorial Day weekend, local horse riders "are upset about the new $10 camping fee and that has deterred them from coming like they usually would."
Site assignment system: The campgrounds operate on a first-come basis. Heather D. confirms "Sites are first come first serve. Payment of the low fee is on the honor system and check in/out is very flexible."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with children have access to recreational facilities at certain campgrounds. The Villages RV Park offers what Jen O. calls "beautiful and easy to get in and out of" camping with "nice spacing in between" sites. This full-time traveling family with children ages 8 and 13 found it ideal for a family stay.
Water activities: Look for campgrounds with water features for added entertainment. April L. highlights The Villages RV Park's "fishing pond, paddleboat rentals" among its family-friendly amenities.
Tent size considerations: Ensure your camping equipment fits the available space. Heather D. notes they "were initially going to stay at Blueberry Patch however our tent was too large for the sites available," which prompted them to move to Backbone Horse Campground where sites are "fairly large."
Tips from RVers
Level site availability: RV campers appreciate the well-maintained parking areas. Boomer B. describes The Villages at Turning Stone RV Park as having "spacious FHU sites. Pull thru and back ins" with Frank M. adding that there are "well maintained and pleasantly arranged spaces."
Size accommodation: Larger RVs can access certain campgrounds without difficulty. Frank M. reports "we had no problem getting a nice paved spot for our 34' class A" at The Villages RV Park, making it suitable for bigger rigs.
Pet considerations: Many campgrounds in the region welcome pets. Frank M. mentions The Villages RV Park even "provided a small treat for our Schnauzer," indicating a pet-friendly atmosphere.
