Backbone Horse Campground serves equestrian enthusiasts seeking convenient access to trail systems in the Finger Lakes National Forest. Located at approximately 1,900 feet elevation, this camping area experiences distinct seasonal changes with moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak season. The campground sits within a mixed hardwood forest environment with trails traversing rolling hills and meadows.
What to do
Trail riding exploration: The campground connects to over 30 miles of multi-use trails that wind through diverse terrain. As Matt A. notes about exploring the nearby Charles E. Baker State Forest, "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."
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location offers excellent night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. Ian A. from Backbone Horse Campground confirms this experience: "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife. We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night!"
Fishing access: Several camping locations provide pond and lake access for anglers. At Charles E. Baker State Forest, Cameron shares: "Water access at a lovely nearby pond. Highly recommended. Only giving 4 stars because the best free sites have water pumps and vault toilets, but this is a great camping experience."
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Sites provide ample room for equipment and vehicles. According to Heather D. at Backbone Horse Campground, "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. Payment of the low fee is on the honor system."
Peace and solitude: Many campers appreciate the quiet atmosphere. Jessica D. from The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone shares: "One of my favorite campgrounds in NY. Its so peaceful at night. My favorite time to come is August during the meteor showers."
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe native wildlife. Frank M. notes at The Villages RV Park: "Very pleasant and knowledgeable staff, well maintained and pleasantly arranged spaces. There ere a lot of campers set up when we were there but we never felt crowded."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Trail conditions vary significantly with weather and seasons. Harry H. advises about Backbone Horse Campground: "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."
Facility limitations: Many horse campgrounds near Nedrow, New York have limited amenities. Cameron reports about Charles E. Baker State Forest: "Campsite consists of a fire pit and picnic table. Some litter, not too bad. No toilets. Bugs aren't an issue."
Reservation systems: Some campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis while others require advance booking. Brenley R. shares about camping at Backbone Horse Campground during a holiday weekend: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Provide structured activities for children to stay engaged. Jen O. from The Villages RV Park at Turning Stone suggests: "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. We also took a drive to the University of Syracuse to tour the campus."
Weather preparation: Pack for variable weather conditions, especially in spring and fall. April L. recommends: "Convenient to the highway with 24 hour shuttles to the casino 5 minutes away, yet quiet and beautifully maintained. Offers a pool, playground, hiking trail, fishing pond, paddleboat rentals, camp store."
Alternative accommodations: Have backup plans for inclement weather. Brenley R. describes a situation: "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."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most equestrian-focused campgrounds offer limited services for RVs. For full hookups, Carl G. recommends The Villages RV Park: "Turning Stone is well maintained with nice sites. All full hook up sites from full sun to full shade. Been coming here for 25 + years."
Leveling and access: RV sites at horse campgrounds may require additional equipment for leveling. Boomer B. notes about The Villages: "Spacious FHU sites. Pull thru and back ins."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience periodic noise disruptions. Michael O. advises: "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)."
Traveler
