Backbone Horse Campground provides primitive camping in the Finger Lakes National Forest about 14 miles from Mottville, New York. The campground sits at approximately 1,900 feet elevation and experiences seasonal temperature variations typical of the region. Sites at equestrian campgrounds near Mottville offer unpaved parking areas with room for horse trailers, though facilities remain basic with vault toilets being the primary amenity.
What to do
Trail riding through National Forest paths: Backbone Horse Campground connects directly to miles of bridle paths 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," notes Harry H. about the Backbone Horse Campground.
Stargazing in dark skies: The rural location offers excellent night sky viewing opportunities. Ian A. reports, "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife. We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night!" Many equestrian campgrounds near Mottville have minimal light pollution, making them excellent for astronomy.
Casino entertainment: For those looking to alternate outdoor activities with indoor entertainment, The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone offers "free shuttle rides to the Turning Stone Casino right up the street," according to Michael O. The casino provides gaming, dining, and entertainment options within a short drive.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Horse camping areas near Mottville feature larger-than-average sites to accommodate equipment. Heather D. mentions, "This is a great little campground with fairly large sites. The fire pits and picnic tables are very nice. Sites are first come first serve." The extra space provides comfortable camping even for those without horses.
Quiet atmosphere: Campers frequently note the peaceful environment at equestrian campgrounds. "We seen maybe three people pass through the three days/two nights we were there," reports Heather D. about her experience at Backbone Horse Campground. Many sites remain uncrowded even during typical peak periods.
Well-maintained facilities: At some of the more developed campgrounds near Mottville, campers appreciate the upkeep. Frank M. noticed "very pleasant and knowledgeable staff, well maintained and pleasantly arranged spaces. There were a lot of campers set up when we were there but we never felt crowded."
What you should know
Campground fees vary: Horse campgrounds near Mottville operate on different fee structures. At Backbone Horse Campground, "Payment of the low fee is on the honor system and check in/out is very flexible," according to Heather D. Some local campers have noted changes to traditional fee structures.
Site availability fluctuates seasonally: Memorial Day weekend marks the opening of many seasonal campgrounds. Brenley R. discovered this when arriving at Backbone: "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."
Shared use policies: While Backbone prioritizes equestrians, non-horse campers can use the facilities. "You can camp without having horses but get ready to smell them," warns Harry H. Some horse owners have strong opinions about sharing the campground with non-equestrians.
Tips for camping with families
Check playground availability: Some campgrounds in the broader Mottville area offer activities for children. Jen O. mentions at The Villages at Turning Stone, "We are a full-time traveling family (2 kids - 8 & 13) and 2 English Bulldogs... The campground was beautiful and easy to get in and out of. The sites were level and great size with nice spacing in between."
Look for fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing access. April L. notes one location provides a "fishing pond, paddleboat rentals, camp store, very clean bath houses throughout, maintained sites, fire rings at each site."
Plan for primitive conditions: Horse campgrounds typically lack amenities like showers or drinking water. Pack accordingly with sufficient water for both drinking and washing, and bring activities to keep children entertained in the absence of developed recreation facilities.
Tips from RVers
Consider site surfaces: RV campers appreciate level, paved parking areas. Boomer B. notes "Spacious FHU sites. Pull thru and back ins" at one campground, while another reviewer mentions "we had no problem getting a nice paved spot for our 34' class A."
Check hookup availability: Most horse campgrounds near Mottville offer primitive camping without hookups. For full hookups, Carl G. recommends, "All full hook up sites from full sun to full shade. Been coming here for 25+ years. There is the casino, dining, golf course and more near by."
Prepare for variable weather: The Finger Lakes region experiences significant seasonal changes. Spring camping may require additional preparation for muddy conditions, while summer offers warm days ideal for outdoor recreation. Pack appropriate gear for temperature fluctuations common in the region.
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