Backbone Horse Campground serves as a primary equestrian camping destination within the Finger Lakes National Forest in central New York. Located near Burdett with coordinates at latitude 42.485556 and longitude -76.806667, this year-round facility offers sites for both horse owners and non-equestrians. The campground features spacious sites with fire rings and picnic tables that can accommodate tents and RVs, plus ample room for horse trailers and equipment. Backbone operates on a self-registration system with modest fees collected via an honor system.
What to do
Trail riding access: The campground provides direct access to the Finger Lakes National Forest trail network where riders can experience varying terrain and woodland scenery. "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," notes Harry H. at Backbone Horse Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location offers excellent night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife. We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night!" according to Ian A. who camped at Backbone Horse Campground.
Winery visits: The surrounding Finger Lakes region contains numerous wineries within driving distance of local campgrounds. Visitors staying at Turning Stone can enjoy various attractions as one camper notes: "There is the casino, dining, golf course and more near by."
What campers like
Privacy and space: Many visitors appreciate the generous site sizes and layout that provide separation between camping groups. "This is a great little campground with fairly large sites... The fire pits and picnic tables are very nice," shares Heather D. about Backbone Horse Campground.
Low occupancy rates: Weekday campers often find themselves with few neighbors. "We seen maybe three people pass through the three days/two nights we were there," reports Heather D., indicating the campground rarely reaches capacity even during normal operating periods.
Free primitive camping options: Budget-conscious campers can find no-cost options in the area. "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," shares Matt A. about Charles E. Baker State Forest.
What you should know
Non-horse campers welcome: Despite its name, the campground accommodates campers without horses. "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," explains Brenley R. about Backbone Horse Campground.
Limited facilities: Most horse campgrounds near Marietta offer minimal amenities. "Campsite consists of a fire pit and picnic table. Some litter, not too bad. No toilets," reports Cameron about Charles E. Baker State Forest, reflecting the primitive nature of many area campgrounds.
Seasonal considerations: Trail conditions can vary dramatically with weather. Local rangers recommend checking with the Finger Lakes National Forest office about potential trail closures before planning your trip, especially during spring thaw periods when trail damage is most likely.
Tips for camping with families
Alternative facilities: Families seeking more amenities might prefer developed campgrounds in the region. "Turning Stone is well maintained with nice sites. Memorial day weekend the weather is beautiful spring weather. All full hook up sites from full sun to full shade," explains Carl G. about The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone.
Activities for children: Some nearby campgrounds offer recreational facilities for younger campers. "Offers a pool, playground, hiking trail, fishing pond, paddleboat rentals, camp store, very clean bath houses throughout," shares April L. about The Villages RV Park.
Safety considerations: Some equestrian campgrounds have periodic security checks. Heather D. notes, "A Sheriff's truck did drive through Saturday morning just to patrol" at Backbone Horse Campground, providing additional peace of mind for families.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RV campers should research access routes to horse campgrounds near Marietta as some forest roads may present challenges. "We had no problem getting a nice paved spot for our 34' class A," reports Frank M. about The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone, though this level of accessibility is not universal among area campgrounds.
Level sites: RVers emphasize the importance of site leveling at primitive campgrounds. "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," notes Jen O. about The Villages RV Park.
Hookup availability: Most equestrian campgrounds offer primitive camping without RV services. For those requiring hookups, The Villages RV Park provides "Spacious FHU sites. Pull thru and back ins," according to Boomer B.
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