Backbone Horse Campground provides equestrian camping opportunities in the Finger Lakes National Forest near Ithaca, New York. The facility sits at approximately 1,900 feet elevation in the only national forest in New York state. The campground connects directly to over 30 miles of multi-use trails that traverse varying terrain including hardwood forests and open meadows. Camping areas accommodate both equestrian and non-equestrian visitors with designated sites for different user groups.
What to do
Trail riding access: The campground serves as a trailhead for extensive riding opportunities. "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 reviewer Harry H. about Backbone Horse Campground.
Stargazing: Clear night skies offer excellent astronomical viewing at this horse campground near Ithaca. "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 their experience at Backbone Horse Campground.
Boating options: At Tompkins Campground, water recreation supplements the equestrian focus found at other Finger Lakes camping areas. "There is a beach for swimming, marina for boating and the sites are huge and grassy," explains Stacey C. about the amenities available.
What campers like
Uncrowded camping experience: The equestrian facilities near Ithaca often have low occupancy, especially on weekdays. "We had the whole place to ourselves. This is a great little campground with fairly large sites... 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," shares Heather D. about Backbone Horse Campground.
Central location: Horse campgrounds provide strategic positioning for exploring the broader region. "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]," notes Brenley R. about the practical advantages of staying at Backbone Horse Campground.
Site quality: The Corps of Engineers campground at Tompkins offers well-maintained facilities. "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," reports Bran P., highlighting the different camping styles available near the Ithaca region.
What you should know
Campground rules: Non-equestrian campers should be aware of site allocation priorities. "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," explains Brenley R. about a potential issue at Backbone Horse Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts facility and trail availability. Campers should contact rangers before arrival to confirm current conditions, especially during spring thaw or after heavy rainfall when trail closures may occur.
Registration process: Self-registration is required at most horse campgrounds in the Finger Lakes area. Payment boxes are typically located at campground entrances, and fees must be paid promptly upon arrival using cash or check.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Families new to equestrian camping should request sites closest to trailheads for easier access with younger riders or those with limited experience.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The diverse habitats surrounding horse campgrounds near Ithaca support varied wildlife viewing. Young campers can participate in wildlife spotting during quiet early morning or evening hours when animals are most active.
Alternative accommodations: For families wanting equestrian activities without tent camping, nearby options exist. "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," reports Stacey C. about Tompkins Campground, which offers different amenities than the more primitive horse camping facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should carefully select appropriate spaces at horse campgrounds. "Just off US 15 at the New York border. All roads and parking pads are paved... Our first week, we were on site 54 (W/E 50A) and waterfront. Our second week, we stayed on site 44 (FHU 50A) right across from the seldom used playground," shares Bran P. about navigating the Tompkins facilities.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service can be unreliable at horse campgrounds in the national forest areas. "No Verizon phone service and very slow internet with a booster," notes a camper about their experience, indicating the need for preparation if staying connected is important.
Campground maintenance: Condition of facilities varies by season and location. "I have been camping at this campground for years, but I would say it not as kept up as it us to be. it still a nice campground but it's nothing like it's sister campground Ives run," explains Kayla N., providing insight about changing conditions at some facilities near the Ithaca region.
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