Backbone Horse Campground

Backbone Horse Campground sits within Finger Lakes National Forest at $15 per night, operating year-round on a first-come, first-served basis with payment handled on the honor system. Check-in and check-out times are flexible. Sites are large enough to accommodate horse trailers and all the gear that comes with them, though campers without horses are welcome too. One thing to know upfront: no pets are allowed.

The campground is primarily designed for equestrians, and more than half the sites are designated for horses. In practice, reviewers report seeing very few horse trailers during their stays, even on holiday weekends. Sites include fire pits and picnic tables, and the campground has toilets and trash service. Cell service is available. Crowds tend to stay light, with some visitors going two or three days seeing only a handful of people pass through. The nearby Blueberry Patch Campground fills faster, particularly around Memorial Day, and campers turned away from there have found space here.

The surrounding national forest gives access to trails, waterfalls, and Finger Lakes vineyards within a reasonable drive. Ian A. calls it a "quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife," which tracks with the low foot traffic reviewers consistently describe. Those planning a longer stay in the region can browse campgrounds around Finger Lakes National Forest for additional context on what else is nearby.

Backbone Horse Campground works best for equestrians with horses in tow, though tent campers and small RVs have made it work when other options in the forest are full.