Backbone Horse Campground features approximately 30 miles of multi-use trails through the Finger Lakes National Forest. These trails cross varied terrain including forests, meadows and gentle hills with elevations ranging from 1,600 to 2,000 feet. The campground operates on a self-registration system with a nominal fee, though permits are required for overnight stays. No permanent corrals are provided at the sites.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The extensive trail network directly accessible from Backbone Horse Campground offers routes suitable for riders of various experience levels. "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," advises Harry H.
Stargazing: Clear nights provide excellent astronomy opportunities at several area campgrounds. "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife. We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night!" notes Ian A. about Backbone Horse Campground.
Swimming and boating: Lyman Run State Park Campground offers water recreation options. "There's a beach area by lake, fishing and then the stars! One of my favs," reports Peggy S. The park maintains a swimming beach with concessions and boat rentals available seasonally.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Equestrian camping areas provide ample room for trailers and equipment. "We had the whole place to ourselves...This is a great little campground with fairly large sites," writes Heather D. about Backbone Horse Campground. Sites are designed to accommodate both horses and camping equipment.
Clean facilities: Stony Fork Creek Campground maintains well-kept amenities. "The campground was exceptionally maintained, bathrooms and showers virtually spotless and the pool was clearly and consistently maintained at all times," reports Greg W.
Proximity to attractions: Locations near regional highlights make these campgrounds practical bases for exploration. "We chose this campsite due to its proximity to the Leonard Harrison State Park," explains MJ B. about Stony Fork Creek Campground, noting its convenience for visiting the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon.
What you should know
Seasonal trail conditions: Spring melt and wet weather can affect trail accessibility for horse riders. "You need a permit to camp here but the permit and site are free," notes Harry H. about Backbone Horse Campground.
Limited services: Most equestrian campgrounds offer basic amenities only. "It's primitive, but more than half the price of a state park," reports Brenley R. about the facilities at Backbone Horse Campground.
Campsite availability: First-come, first-served sites can fill quickly during peak season. "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," cautions Brenley R.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Tompkins Campground offers swimming and boating options suitable for children. "There is a beach for swimming, marina for boating and the sites are huge and grassy," reports Stacey C.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include recreational facilities specifically for children. "Our second week, we stayed on site 44 (FHU 50A) right across from the seldom used playground," mentions Bran P. about Tompkins Campground.
Dark sky viewing: The region provides exceptional stargazing opportunities for educational family experiences. "Lyman Run holds a special place for me. It's nestled within the gold level dark sky area. This means on a clear night and with a waning or new moon, one could see the arm of the Milky Way with millions of stars," explains Bill G.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Stony Fork Creek Campground offers various camping options. "Was able to choose a location that worked best for us. The area we selected was not busy," notes MJ B., adding "the ground was grassy and level."
Road access considerations: Paved roads at some campgrounds facilitate easier travel with trailers or RVs. "All roads and parking pads are paved. The sites are closer together than most other COE parks where we've stayed," Bran P. mentions about Tompkins Campground.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service is unreliable in many camping areas near Lawrenceville. "No Verizon phone service and very slow internet with a booster," reports Bran P., while Brandon W. notes about Stony Fork Creek Campground: "No cell service and WiFi isn't reliable if that's what you need or are looking for."
