Along the Potomac River within Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, this hiker-biker campsite provides free overnight accommodation for non-motorized travelers. The site sits trailside with direct water access and includes a fire ring, picnic table, and portable restroom. A hand pump delivers well water treated with iodine for drinking.
Campers must hike or bike in to reach the site, as no vehicle access exists. Pets are not permitted. The location offers river views with ample tent space on relatively level ground, making it suitable for cyclists and backpackers traveling the C&O Canal towpath.
Description
Mile 26.1 - Hiker-biker campgrounds are located along the towpath approximately every 5-7 miles. No fee or reservation required. Overnight stays are limited to one night. All sites include a chemical toilet, picnic table, grill, and drinking water. Please Note: Potable water may not be available at each campsite. Water is treated with iodine. Please plan to have water purification tablets with you. Water is turned off from November 15 to April 15 each year.
Location
Private CampgroundHorsepen Branch Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is located in Maryland
Directions
Horsepen Branch Hiker-Biker Overnight (HBO) Campsite directions and information are available at https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/camping.htm.
Coordinates
39.06938 N
77.398038 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 user- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 user
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Horsepen Branch Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 41 min from Washington, DC
- 54 min from Baltimore, MD
- 1 hr 1 min from Hagerstown, MD
- 1 hr 19 min from Winchester, VA
