Map showing campground location near Cumberland, Maryland

Camper submitted image from Irons Mountain Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Irons Mountain Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Within Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, this hiker-biker campsite sits along the towpath trail system managed by the National Park Service. Accessible only by foot or bicycle, the site requires advance planning since pets are prohibited and well pump handles may be missing at various locations along the canal.

The campsite features extensive grassy areas suitable for multiple tents, though it provides just one picnic table and grill for shared use among visitors. A regularly serviced portable toilet serves the area. Campers should prepare for frequent train noise throughout the night, as the site sits near a major rail switching yard where locomotives start and stop on the adjacent bridge. The Potomac River runs alongside the camping area, and cell service remains available for those needing connectivity during their canal adventure.

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Map & DirectionsIrons Mountain Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite is located in Maryland near Cumberland

Private Campground

Directions

Irons Mountain Hiker-Biker Campsite directions and information are available at https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/camping.htm.

Coordinates

39.587479 N
78.735584 W

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Connectivity

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Verified by 4 users
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AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-MobileLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 1 user
Verizon
No Coverage
Verified by 4 users
Last on 6/18/26
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

Hike-In
Backcountry sites.
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

Phone Service
Drinking Water
Toilets
Alcohol

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

1 hr 2 min from Hagerstown, MD
1 hr 7 min from Winchester, VA
1 hr 20 min from Chambersburg, PA
1 hr 22 min from Johnstown, PA

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Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Irons Mountain Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite

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2 Reviews

Shari G.

Legend

Reviewed Dec. 28, 2021

Clean, Grassy Site Next to the River

We gave up the thoughts of staying at the first campsite just outside of Cumberland which is only 5 miles out from town because it was just kind of dumpy, too close to town, and the handle was missing on the well pump. We found several of the hiker/biker camps missing well pump handles so always come prepared with water. Irons Mountain was about another 4 miles and the distance was worth it!

There is a lot of grass and plenty of space for dozens of tents, only one grill and picnic table though so make friends. We did and got half a jar of peanut butter out of the bargain. The park service port-o-potty is serviced often enough to be a pleasant experience though that is not always the case along the C&O. The comradery of the riders along the trail is a nice side benefit, so share the picnic table.

One thing to consider with these campgrounds next to the trail is the number of trains that pass by in the night. This camp is pretty close to a huge switching yard, but along a big straightaway, so you’ll hear it but at least there isn’t the screeching brakes all night long like along the GAP trail. Bring ear plugs for a better night's sleep! Check out our video for details.

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Caden R.

Traveler

Reviewed Apr. 6, 2020

One of my favorites

This is one of my personal favorite sites on the canal to camp at. That being said, it is pretty close to a road, so a little bit of seclusion. I personally like trains, and railroads in general, but if you don’t, I think this was one of the noisiest campsites in terms of trains. (Maybe it’s was just the night I stayed) There was a train that was starting and stopping on the bridge that’s right next to the campsite all night. Each time it started and stopped it made quite the loud noise. I enjoyed it, but could see how most people would not. The sites around here are beautiful, though. Waking up next to the river is always a plus.