Backbone Horse Camp

For New Yorkers who cherish the tranquility of the great outdoors and perhaps even share their adventures with an equine companion, Backbone Horse Camp in Burdett, NY, offers a unique and inviting retreat. Nestled within the expansive Finger Lakes National Forest, this semi-primitive campground is a true hidden gem, providing a rustic and peaceful escape from the everyday hustle. While primarily designed for campers with horses, it also welcomes those without, making it a versatile option for anyone seeking a quiet, natural setting for their next camping trip.

Backbone Horse Camp embodies the spirit of "boondocking" or dispersed camping, offering a more raw and authentic outdoor experience compared to highly developed campgrounds. Here, the focus is on simplicity and connecting with nature. Each site provides essential amenities like picnic tables and fire pits, allowing for traditional campfire cooking and evening gatherings under the stars. The quiet atmosphere and limited traffic contribute to a truly relaxing environment, where the sounds of wildlife and rustling leaves replace urban noise.

What makes Backbone Horse Camp particularly appealing for New York locals is its accessibility and affordability. Located within the Finger Lakes National Forest, it provides an excellent base for exploring the region's vast network of trails, including those specifically designed for horseback riding. For horse owners in New York, having a dedicated campground with spacious sites capable of accommodating horse trailers, along with direct trail access, is an invaluable resource. Even for non-equestrian campers, the charm of a quiet, less-crowded campground at a reasonable fee is a significant draw.

The commitment to cleanliness, even in a primitive setting, is a consistent highlight from past visitors. The presence of clean vault toilets, along with garbage and recycling containers, demonstrates a dedication to maintaining the natural beauty of the area for all who visit. This attention to detail ensures a comfortable experience despite the rustic nature of the amenities. It’s a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the Finger Lakes landscape, whether you’re on horseback or on foot, and enjoy the peace that comes with being surrounded by nature.

Backbone Horse Camp is located on Picnic Area Rd, Burdett, NY 14818, USA, deep within the Finger Lakes National Forest. This strategic placement ensures a secluded and natural environment, while still being accessible for New York residents. For those traveling with horse trailers, the sites are generally spacious enough to accommodate rigs, though larger Class A RVs may find specific sites challenging to navigate. The campground's location provides direct access to a network of trails, including the Backbone Trail, making it an ideal base for equestrian activities and hiking. Directions typically involve taking State Route 414 or State Route 14 to County Route 2, then following signs to the campground. This network of state and county roads makes it a manageable drive from various parts of New York, allowing for a relatively straightforward journey into this peaceful forest setting. While the remoteness contributes to its charm, it's advisable to have directions handy as cell service can be spotty in forest areas.

Services Offered:

• Semi-primitive camping sites: Approximately 10 sites available.
• Horse trailer accommodation: Several sites are specifically designed or large enough for horse trailers, with tie posts for horses.
• Picnic tables: Available at each campsite.
• Fire pits: Provided at each campsite for campfires.
• Vault toilets: Two on-site, reported to be generally clean.
• Garbage cans and recycling containers: Available for waste management.
• Direct trail access: Connects directly to multi-use trails, including the Backbone Trail.
• No electricity: This is a boondocking (primitive) location, so no electric hook-ups are available.
• No potable water: Campers must bring their own drinking water. A non-potable hydrant for livestock watering might be available.

Features / Highlights:

• Quiet and secluded atmosphere: Minimal traffic and a natural setting ensure a peaceful camping experience.
• Equestrian-focused design: Ideal for horse owners with dedicated horse trailer sites and direct trail access. Sites #5-9 are reserved for horseback users from Memorial Day to Columbus Day, with remaining sites open to all.
• Access to extensive trail system: Opportunities for hiking, horseback riding (trails closed March 15 to May 1 for muddy conditions), and enjoying nature.
• Affordable camping: A reasonable nightly fee for a unique forest camping experience ($15/night per site; $5/day use fee). Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount to single campsites.
• "Boondocking" experience: Appeals to campers who prefer a more rustic and self-sufficient style of camping.
• Clean facilities: Vault toilets are generally well-maintained.
• Open year-round for hiking: Campground itself is open from Memorial Day through November for camping, but trails are accessible for hiking year-round.
• Located within Finger Lakes National Forest: Provides access to broader forest exploration and nearby Finger Lakes attractions.

Regarding promotions or special offers, Backbone Horse Camp, being part of the Finger Lakes National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service, operates on a standard fee structure rather than offering traditional commercial promotions. The current nightly fee for a single campsite is $15.00, and a day-use fee is $5.00 per vehicle per day. A significant "special offer" available to eligible New York residents and other visitors is the 50% discount on single campsites for holders of Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes. These passes are specifically designed for U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are 62 or older (Senior Pass) or have a permanent disability (Access Pass). This discount applies only to the campsite physically occupied by the pass holder. For the most current and official information on fees, availability, and any potential changes, it is always recommended to contact the Hector Ranger Station (which shares the phone number listed) directly or consult the official Recreation.gov website for the Finger Lakes National Forest.

Contact Information:

Address: Picnic Area Rd, Burdett, NY 14818, USA

Phone: (607) 546-4470

Mobile Phone: +1 607-546-4470

Backbone Horse Camp is an exceptional choice for New York locals, especially those who appreciate a more rustic and serene camping experience or who enjoy equestrian activities. Its location within the Finger Lakes National Forest offers easy access to a vast natural playground right in their backyard, minimizing travel time and maximizing outdoor enjoyment. For horse owners, the dedicated sites capable of handling trailers and the direct access to an extensive trail system are unparalleled conveniences, making it a go-to destination for riding enthusiasts across the state. Even for campers without horses, the quiet, low-traffic environment provides a peaceful retreat from the more bustling campgrounds.

The affordability of Backbone Horse Camp further enhances its appeal for New Yorkers seeking a budget-friendly escape into nature. The presence of basic but well-maintained amenities like clean vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits ensures a comfortable stay despite the primitive setting. It's a place where locals can truly disconnect, embrace the simplicity of nature, and enjoy hiking or horseback riding amidst the beautiful landscapes of the Finger Lakes region. For those who value tranquility and direct access to expansive trails, Backbone Horse Camp offers an authentic and rewarding New York outdoor adventure.

Backbone Horse Camp

Picnic Area Rd, Burdett, NY 14818, USA