Backbone Horse Campground serves equestrians and general campers in the Finger Lakes National Forest year-round. The primitive camping area features approximately 10 spacious sites designed to accommodate horse trailers and camping equipment. Most sites include fire pits and picnic tables, with a self-service payment system requiring a modest fee. The campground is positioned at an elevation of around 1,800 feet, providing access to an extensive network of forest trails that connect to the 950-mile Finger Lakes Trail system.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The trail system connecting to Backbone Horse Campground offers miles of riding through diverse terrain. According to visitor 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."
Stargazing: The remote location of many campgrounds near Dryden provides exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. At Backbone Horse Campground, camper Ian A. notes it's a "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife. We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night!"
Hiking forest trails: Charles E. Baker State Forest offers extensive hiking opportunities on undeveloped land. Visitor Matt A. reports, "Beautiful forest with miles of trails. I found this spot passing through on my bike and had no problem pitching a tent in a secluded spot in the woods."
What campers like
Low occupancy rates: Even during peak times, horse campgrounds near Dryden remain uncrowded. Heather D. shared her experience at Backbone Horse Campground: "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."
Large campsites: The spacious sites accommodate various equipment configurations. As Heather D. notes, "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."
Affordability: Most equestrian campgrounds in the area have minimal fees or are free. Cameron from Charles E. Baker State Forest explains, "Only giving 4 stars because the best free sites have water pumps and vault toilets, but this is a great camping experience."
What you should know
Campground designation conflicts: Some sites may prioritize equestrian use. At Backbone Horse Campground, Brenley R. experienced this firsthand: "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. It was actually perfect for our small popup, but the horse riders that camp here were not pleased with us."
Limited amenities: Most horse campgrounds near Dryden provide basic facilities only. Non-equestrian campsites at Charles E. Baker State Forest have minimal infrastructure, as Cameron observed: "Campsite consists of a fire pit and picnic table. Some litter, not too bad. No toilets."
Seasonal closures: Trail access may be restricted during certain times. The Finger Lakes National Forest management requires campers to "Call Finger Lakes National Forest to make sure trails aren't closed due to weather, spring melt, etc."
Tips for camping with families
Flexible scheduling: Backbone Horse Campground operates with relaxed timing policies. According to Heather D., "Payment of the low fee is on the honor system and check in / out is very flexible."
Water access options: Some campsites provide natural water sources for recreation. At Charles E. Baker State Forest, Cameron mentions "Water access at a lovely nearby pond."
Central location benefits: Dryden area campgrounds provide strategic positioning for regional attractions. Brenley R. points out that when camping at Backbone Horse Campground, "You're centrally located to do and see everything from waterfalls, trails, vineyards and so on."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all campgrounds accommodate bigger RVs. At Backbone Horse Campground, Heather D. found that "Sites are first come first serve" and some locations may have size limitations.
Small popup compatibility: Primitive horse campgrounds can work well for compact RVs. Brenley R. found Backbone Horse Campground "actually perfect for our small popup" despite it being primarily designated for equestrian use.
Alternative options: When primary destinations are full, equestrian campgrounds provide backup possibilities. Matt A. suggests at Charles E. Baker State Forest, "There are official camp spots with water access which are also free to use."
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