Backbone Horse Campground provides basic camping facilities for equestrians near Johnson City, New York. This primitive camping area offers toilet facilities and trash collection in a wooded setting. The campground primarily accommodates tent and RV camping with direct access for horse trailers. Sites are available year-round and have received positive feedback from riders who appreciate the uncrowded atmosphere and simple setup. The campground lacks electric hookups, drinking water, and shower facilities, making it suitable for self-sufficient campers prepared for basic conditions.
Located approximately 60 miles west of Johnson City in Finger Lakes National Forest, Backbone connects to an extensive network of bridle paths and multi-use trails. The forest roads and trails provide varied terrain for day rides through wooded areas. Riders must bring their own water supply for horses, as no on-site water facilities exist at the campground. The trails remain open year-round, though seasonal conditions affect accessibility, particularly during spring thaw and after heavy rains when trails can become muddy. Trailer parking is available directly at campsites, allowing convenient access for loading and unloading horses. The forest setting offers natural tie-out opportunities among trees, but no permanent corrals or stalls are provided, requiring campers to bring portable containment systems for their horses.
"There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network if hiking and horse riding trails."
"The sites were a little close to each other and where we were in the park was a mixed use area. So we had an RV next to us with the Genny running all day."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $24 - $90 / night
"I stayed on a lakeside electric/water site for 5 nights in August 2020. It was SO BEAUTIFUL. We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. "
"We didn’t have a view of the lake, instead we were in someone’s back yard lol. It wasn’t a big deal. The site was well maintained and flat which were the most important."
"Went here with some friends who had never been outside NYC before. They were absolutely blown away. For me, it was a nice site but not exceptional. Bring or rent a kayak!"
"I drove to NYC for a business trip and ended up driving 1 and a half hour to reach this place. I always carry a tent in the back of my trunk and decided to go camping."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $18 - $40 / night
"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."
"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."
from $15 / night
GuideStayed October 14 without reservations because website showed lots of availability. Office was closed (M-F 8-4) so submitted honor system envelope with cash and stayed at Site 041 on Carpenter loop. Shower building was a short walk and was spacious enough. Water temp didn’t quite reach hot but was warm enough.
Electric kept on tripping breaker.
TravelerIf you like nature well this is the place for you.
TravelerThe state park is beautiful. The site was very nice. The park itself is very big with many activities available such as boat rentals and a swimming pool. There's also an amphitheatre which hosts specials. During our stay the only activity we made it to was the pool. The main reason we didn't do more was the distance. We have a motorhome so we didn't have additional vehicles to get to and from places. We walked to the park which according to my Fitbit was 1.5 miles away. That doesn't seem too bad until you realize it's mostly hills in both directions! We are a fairly active young family who has no problem with a bit of a walk but after that experience we decided to just spend the remainder of our trip hanging out at our site. It's a good thing we only stayed 2 nights because our 10 year old might've lost his mind with boredom if we stayed longer. Overall, the site we had was great and I'd recommend it. My husband and I may come back for a couples date weekend.
GuideStayed in the fairly new ledges loop that are all full hookup sites. Nice large sites, beautiful area, friendly rangers. Nice play area for kids, water craft rentals, nice lake. Plenty of picnic areas for day trips.
TravelerKeen lake is the most cleanest friendliest family environment campsite you will ever find. Beautiful lake great fishing. Activities all day long for the children. Great general store that has everything in it that is open from sun up to sundown. The nachos and ice cream are the best. Super friendly staff. It's big they have tent sites right along the lake the lake is huge there's so much I could say but I would run out of room. I started coming here when I was four and I am now 46 years old and it is just the best place ever. It will always have a special place in our heart. Look forward every year to coming here no matter what age my kids are they all have a blast. From tent sites to RVs to cottages to glamping you name it they have it highly recommend it. Recently went camping to somewhere a little bit closer to home and it's nothing compared to here. It's like comparing Macy's to Walmart. You will never regret coming here. So pack your family up and have a great time.
LegendThis is an amazing state park that has something for everyone. There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network if hiking and horse riding trails. There are several campgrounds, with tremendous variety for every camping style. There are standard car camping tent sites, RV sites, and yurts and camper cabins. For those who like more rustic options, there are hike-in sites that are beautiful and not far from the parking area. The campsites are nestled in a deep shady mature forest, and peaceful and quiet due to the wooded aspect and spacing of sites (at least for me, in September in a hike-in site not far from the regular campground). It is nice to have such a fine camping and outdoor recreation opportunity within an easy drive of the city of Clarks Summit, so probably a great weekend getaway for local folks, but a wonderful stopover for anyone on a road trip through northern PA as it is not far off Interstate 81. I was there only one day, but would like to be back to explore the trails!
LegendNice state park. Wooded campgrounds. Nice sites. Boating and fishing.
GuidePretty good State park. Convenient to Scranton. The bathhouse was adequate and clean. Site was paved but not really level and layout was odd, fire ring and table were on drivers side. Didn’t use facilities but Lake looke nice
LegendStopped at Lackawanna on our way to Vermont... good overnight spot!
Backbone Horse Campground sits at approximately 1,900 feet elevation within Finger Lakes National Forest, about 60 miles west of Johnson City, New York. This primitive camping area operates year-round with vault toilets available and a self-registration system near the entrance. The campground features large, open sites that accommodate both equestrian and non-equestrian campers with ample room for trailers and tents.
Trail riding opportunities: The campground connects to over 30 miles of multi-use trails through the Finger Lakes National Forest. "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 Harry H. about Backbone Horse Campground.
Stargazing and wildlife observation: The remote location provides excellent dark sky conditions away from light pollution. "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife. We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night!" shares Ian A. about his experience at Backbone Horse Campground.
Hiking and nature exploration: Surrounding trails offer varied terrain for day hikes with elevation changes between 900-2,000 feet. At Bear Spring Mountain, another equestrian-friendly option, "There is a hiking loop that goes around the pond. Great flowers and nature," according to J G.
Uncrowded atmosphere: Many visitors appreciate the low-density camping experience, especially during weekdays. "We were there in May and there were plenty of empty sites so it was nice and quiet," notes Mayra D. about Bear Spring Mountain.
Natural setting: The wooded environment provides a peaceful backdrop for camping. At Lackawanna State Park Campground, "We like Lackawanna State Park. This is the place we camped when we moved to PA. It has sites that are very wooded. Some are a little close to each other, but others offer plenty of space, including our site (52) on this trip. One of the biggest spots we have ever had," shares Michael.
Basic amenities: The primitive setup appeals to self-sufficient campers seeking a simple outdoor experience. "The fire pits and picnic tables are very nice. Sites are first come first serve. Payment of the low fee is on the honor system and check in / out is very flexible," explains Heather D. about Backbone Horse Campground.
Weather considerations: Spring conditions can make trails muddy and occasionally impassable, particularly for horses. "Nothing but woods all around! Endless hiking and beautiful steams - you can drink straight from the pipes!" mentions Kimberly S. about Bear Spring Mountain.
Campground etiquette: Some sites prioritize certain user groups. "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 a camper at Backbone Horse Campground.
Limited facilities: Prepare for primitive conditions with no water sources for horses or humans. "Bring or rent a kayak! There is some pretty serious hiking on site and nearby. There was a lot of horse activity but I don't know if you can hire them here. Lots of wildlife! Obey bear rules!" advises Amber A. about Bear Spring Mountain.
Plan for varied interests: Multi-activity options keep all ages engaged. At Keen Lake Resort Campground, "This place is perfect for families, beginners, adventurers, and fisherman alike. They have an overabundance amount of activities scheduled for campers. You are able to camp in tents in the activity field or lakeside," explains Samantha S.
Bring fishing gear: Several area lakes offer fishing opportunities for children. "The kids caught multiple sunnies and even a small perch. All in all, we had a great time and plan to go back next year," shares Shannon C. about her family's experience at Keen Lake.
Pack for self-sufficient camping: Most equestrian sites near Johnson City require bringing all supplies including drinking water. "I drove to NYC for a business trip and ended up driving 1 and a half hour to reach this place. I always carry a tent in the back of my trunk and decided to go camping. This campsite isn't the best but is still good. There is horses so you will smell them," notes kevin T. about Bear Spring Mountain.
Site selection: Many equestrian camping areas accommodate RVs but with limitations. At Lackawanna State Park Campground, "Stayed in the fairly new ledges loop that are all full hookup sites. Nice large sites, beautiful area, friendly rangers," recommends cheryl M.
Power considerations: Expect limited or no electrical hookups at primitive equestrian sites. "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," warns David about Lackawanna State Park Campground.
Space for trailers: Horse camping areas typically provide larger parking areas for trucks and trailers. "We had a great time despite cold wet weather. Our site was probably one of the worst in the place but we were able to scope out others that we would prefer for our next visit," shares Emily Z. about her experience at Keen Lake Resort Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Johnson City, NY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Johnson City, NY is Lackawanna State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 19 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Johnson City, NY?
TheDyrt.com has all 4 equestrian camping locations near Johnson City, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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