Backbone Horse Campground in Finger Lakes National Forest provides year-round equestrian camping with rustic accommodations. The campground features spacious sites designed specifically for horse trailers and equipment. First-come, first-served sites cost $10 with payment collected through an honor system. Non-equestrian campers are welcome but should expect to share facilities with horses. The campground connects directly to the extensive trail system within Finger Lakes National Forest, making it a strategic base for riders exploring the region. Security patrols occasionally monitor the area, though weekday use remains minimal compared to weekends.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Backbone Horse Campground serves as a gateway to miles of forest trails. Proper trail conditions verification is essential before arrival. "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," advises Harry H.
Stargazing sessions: Clear nights at Backbone provide exceptional celestial viewing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. Ian A. reports, "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife. We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night!"
Day trips to attractions: When staying at Darien Lakes State Park Campground, campers can visit nearby Niagara Falls. Dawn T. shares, "We stayed at this campground when we went to Niagara falls. It's a small campground but has clean bath houses an a relaxing atmosphere. Not much to do but fish or walk trails but that's how we like it. Nice park to go to after a long day at the falls."
What campers like
Solitude and peaceful atmosphere: Many equestrian campers appreciate the quiet nature of horse camping facilities near Hemlock. Heather D. notes, "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."
Winter camping options: The Finger Lakes region offers cold-weather camping opportunities for properly equipped visitors. "We did some winter camping here. We backpacked into the lean to along the Conservation Trail. It was in good condition and we had a large clearing for activities. No issues with animals," reports Leah W.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance standards remain high throughout the region. Carol B. observes that Darien Lakes State Park offers "grassy areas and mature trees and small lake. Sites well spaced. Clean and well maintained. We were there on a weekday, told weekends are busy. Not buggy."
What you should know
Campground occupancy patterns: Holiday weekends can affect availability, though some equestrian facilities remain underutilized. Brenley R. reports about Backbone Horse Campground, "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."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds balance natural settings with proximity to attractions. Adam R. advises, "If you like a park that is near an amusement park and not that quiet this is for you. You are still out in nature and have those aspects but you dont get that lost into nature here to me."
Alternative camping options: When primary campgrounds fill up, flexibility helps. "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," shares Brenley R.
Tips for camping with families
Amusement park access: Families seeking entertainment options beyond nature have convenient access to theme parks. Robert D. notes, "Good swimming I only used Tent Camping wonderful hiking trails last time I went hiking. Great place to take a family. amusement park around the corner to."
Kid-friendly amenities: Darien Lakes State Park offers recreation options specifically designed for younger visitors. Wesley J. confirms it's a "kids paradise" and adds that "kids and parents will love this place as has lots of entertainment for all ages."
Swimming opportunities: Several campgrounds feature water access for cooling off during summer months. Jim S. mentions, "I've camped here since I was a little kid. Always clean and well maintained. Also has a nice beach and all newly remodeled bathrooms."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV campers should arrive early during peak seasons to secure preferred sites. Heather D. found that "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."
Supply availability: While equestrian camping near Hemlock provides natural isolation, convenience stores remain accessible. Adam R. points out that "All the facilities were nice and clean which is always a plus and you are not far from shopping or groceries if needed."
Centralized location advantages: The region offers strategic positioning for exploring diverse attractions. Brenley R. found, "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 par[k]."
Traveler
