Backbone Horse Campground offers primitive sites specifically designed for equestrians in the Finger Lakes National Forest. Located at an elevation of approximately 1,900 feet, the campground experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F. Weather conditions change rapidly throughout the year, affecting trail accessibility and camping comfort. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with a $10 fee through an honor system payment box at the entrance.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Multiple interconnected trail systems allow for rides ranging from 1-hour loops to full-day excursions through the Finger Lakes National Forest. "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. You need a permit to camp here but the permit and site are free," notes Harry H. from Backbone Horse Campground.
Stargazing sessions: The relative isolation of the campground creates excellent night sky viewing conditions with minimal light pollution. Ian A. describes Backbone Horse Campground as the "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife. We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night!"
Scenic drives: The rolling hills surrounding equestrian camping near Burdett create opportunities for memorable drives. Bran P. from Tompkins reports, "This area is pretty with rolling hills all around so we enjoyed a couple of scenic drives. About an hour away is the Pine Creek Rail Trail in the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon."
What campers like
Spacious sites: The generously sized camping areas accommodate trailers, horses, and camping gear without feeling crowded. According to Heather D. from Backbone Horse Campground, "This is a great little campground with fairly large sites. We were initially going to stay at Blueberry Patch however our tent was too large for the sites available."
Peace and quiet: Low visitation rates mean campers often have large sections to themselves, especially during weekdays. "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," reports Heather D.
Central location: The positioning within the Finger Lakes region provides convenient access to regional attractions. Brenley R. explains, "You're centrally located to do and see everything from waterfalls, trails, vineyards and so on. It's primitive, but more than half the price of a state park."
What you should know
Horse priority system: Non-equestrian campers may use the facilities but should yield to those with horses. Brenley R. from Backbone Horse Campground explains, "We originally came down to the National Forest to stay at the Blueberry Patch Campground but it was full by noon on the Friday before Memorial Day. This was also the first day it was open. We ended up having to come to this location. It was actually perfect for our small popup, but the horse riders that camp here were not pleased with us."
Seasonal usage patterns: Visitation fluctuates significantly throughout the year, with heaviest use during summer weekends. Memorial Day weekend can see increased traffic at alternative sites when primary campgrounds fill up, as noted in camper experiences.
Primitive facilities: Amenities are basic, with vault toilets but no running water or electrical hookups. Campers must bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water. The basic facilities are reflected in the lower cost compared to developed campgrounds in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose camping spots away from equestrian areas if not traveling with horses. Brenley R. notes, "More than half of the camp is designated for horses but only one horse trailer came into the camp the entire time we were there."
Wildlife observation opportunities: The quiet atmosphere creates excellent conditions for viewing and listening to local fauna, especially in early morning and evening hours. Ian A. specifically mentions listening to wildlife as part of the camping experience at Backbone Horse Campground.
Alternative options: Have backup locations identified during peak periods. Stacey C. from Tompkins recommends considering nearby alternatives: "We love this campground. We come every year. It is run by Army Corp of Engineers because it is on a lake with a dam. 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."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Backbone Horse Campground offers no hookups of any kind for RVs, making it suitable only for self-contained units or those comfortable with dry camping. Bring sufficient water, fully charged batteries, and empty waste tanks.
Site accessibility: Access roads may be challenging for larger RVs, particularly during wet conditions. Smaller trailers and pop-ups adapt better to the primitive conditions than full-sized motorhomes or fifth wheels.
Alternative RV accommodations: For those needing hookups, nearby campgrounds offer more amenities. Bran P. describes one alternative: "All roads and parking pads are paved. The sites are closer together than most other COE parks where we've stayed. We stayed in the Bench Loop which is very busy since it is waterfront."
