Backbone Horse Campground provides specialized facilities for equestrian camping near Homer, New York. The campground features spacious sites accommodating tents, RVs, and horse trailers. A $10 camping fee is collected through an honor system with payment boxes located at the entrance. The fee structure represents a recent change that has affected usage patterns at the campground. While primarily designed for horse owners, non-equestrian campers can utilize the facilities when space permits, particularly during weekdays or non-peak seasons.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location of Backbone Horse Campground creates ideal conditions for nighttime astronomy. "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife. We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night!" notes Ian A. from Backbone Horse Campground.
Trail verification: Check trail conditions before arrival by contacting the Finger Lakes National Forest office. Harry H. advises, "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."
Casino entertainment: For those seeking entertainment beyond natural settings, The Villages RV Park offers convenient access to gaming and dining. "We scheduled a pull through for 1 night last minute due to an unexpected change in plans... We did head over to the casino briefly and enjoyed that," shares Jen O.
What campers like
Privacy and solitude: Many equestrian camping areas experience fluctuating usage levels throughout the season. "We had the whole place to ourselves... We seen maybe three people pass through the three days/two nights we were there," reports Heather D. from Backbone Horse Campground.
Meteor shower viewing: August provides optimal conditions for astronomical events at certain campgrounds. Jessica D. mentions, "One of my favorite campgrounds in NY. Its so peaceful at night. My favorite time to come is August during the meteor showers."
Free dispersed camping options: Charles E. Baker State Forest offers no-cost alternatives to established campgrounds. "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," explains Matt A. from Charles E. Baker State Forest.
What you should know
Camping fee changes: Recent policy updates have altered usage patterns at 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," notes Brenley R.
Equestrian priority: Non-horse campers should understand usage expectations. "The horse riders that camp here were not pleased with us. This campground is apparently ONLY for horse owners with their horses," explains Brenley R. from The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone.
Railroad noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience periodic noise disruption. "The only real negatives would be the proximity to some railroad tracks, which can be somewhat active and very audible in some spots. You'll want to stay towards the south/front of the park if this kind of thing bothers you," advises Michael O.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families seeking recreation facilities have options beyond natural settings. April L. notes, "Offers a pool, playground, hiking trail, fishing pond, paddleboat rentals, camp store, very clean bath houses throughout, maintained sites."
Water recreation: Many campgrounds feature ponds suitable for fishing or paddling activities. "Water access at a lovely nearby pond. Highly recommended," shares Cameron from Charles E. Baker State Forest.
Tent size considerations: Verify site dimensions when planning family camping trips with larger shelters. "We were initially going to stay at Blueberry Patch however our tent was too large for the sites available," explains Heather D.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: RV campers seeking complete services have dedicated options. "All sites are full hookups (I think) and paved. Definitely geared towards the RV or trailer crowd," explains Michael O. from The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone.
Pull-through accessibility: Larger rigs benefit from specially designed sites. "We are a full-time traveling family and have a Class A motorhome and flat tow a Jeep. The campground was beautiful and easy to get in and out of. The sites were level and great size with nice spacing in between," shares Jen O.
Bathroom proximity: Consider restroom locations when selecting sites without onboard facilities. "Some sites aren't that close to a bath house, so if you're not planning on duecing in your box, you might be looking at a longer walk than others based on where your site is," advises Michael O.
Scout
