Equestrian camping remains a popular option in the Finger Lakes National Forest region. The area sits at approximately 2,000 feet elevation with significant terrain variation between valleys and ridgelines. The national forest contains over 30 miles of interconnected trails that cross meadows, hardwood forests, and pine plantations, with multiple access points for trailer parking.
What to do
Trail riding access: Backbone Horse Campground provides direct entry to the Finger Lakes National Forest trail system. "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," advises Harry H. from Backbone Horse Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The limited light pollution in horse campgrounds near Dresden, New York creates excellent night sky viewing. "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife. We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night!" reports Ian A. about his experience at Backbone Horse Campground.
Water recreation: Many campgrounds provide lake access for swimming and boating activities. "There is a beach for swimming, marina for boating and the sites are huge and grassy," notes Stacey C. about Tompkins, which sits near the New York border.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: The equestrian campgrounds feature larger-than-average sites to accommodate trailers and equipment. "We had the whole place to ourselves. This is a great little campground with fairly large sites," reports Heather D. about Backbone Horse Campground.
Flexible arrangements: The honor system payment structure allows for convenient camping. "Payment of the low fee is on the honor system and check in / out is very flexible. We seen maybe three people pass through the three days/two nights we were there," continues Heather D.
Cost-effective options: Equestrian sites in national forests often provide good value compared to private facilities. "Both locations are great with a small fee. 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," explains Brenley R. from Backbone Horse Campground.
What you should know
Campground sharing protocols: Non-equestrian campers should understand the primary purpose of horse-designated sites. "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. We ended up having to come to this location. The horse riders that camp here were not pleased with us. This campground is apparently ONLY for horse owners with their horses," cautions Brenley R.
Limited amenities: Most equestrian sites provide basic facilities only. "It's primitive, but more than half the price of a state park," notes Brenley R.
Variable maintenance: Forest Service campgrounds receive different levels of upkeep. "I have been camping at this campground for years, but I would say it not as kept up as it used to be. It still a nice campground but it's nothing like its sister campground Ives run," explains Kayla N. about Tompkins.
Tips for camping with families
Off-peak timing: Family groups can often find more space during weekdays. "We were told by locals that the horse riders are upset about the new $10 camping fee and that has deterred them from coming like they usually would," shares Brenley R., indicating changing usage patterns at Backbone Horse Campground.
Space considerations: Verify your equipment fits the available sites. "We were initially going to stay at Blueberry Patch however our tent was too large for the sites available," explains Heather D., highlighting the importance of knowing campsite dimensions.
Alternative options: Always have backup locations during peak periods. "Just off US 15 at the New York border. All roads and parking pads are paved. The sites are closer together than most other COE parks where we've stayed," notes Bran P. about Tompkins.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Equestrian campgrounds typically provide larger pull-through areas for trailers. "It was actually perfect for our small popup, but the horse riders that camp here were not pleased with us," mentions Brenley R. about using Backbone Horse Campground with a smaller RV.
Connectivity limits: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. "No Verizon phone service and very slow internet with a booster," reports Bran P. about connectivity at Tompkins campground.
Hookup availability: Most forest service equestrian sites lack hookups. Tompkins offers "All roads and parking pads are paved... Our second week, we stayed on site 44 (FHU 50A) right across from the seldom used playground," according to Bran P.
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