Hikers and cyclists traveling the C&O Canal towpath can overnight at this National Park Service campsite located at mile 129.9, about a three to five minute walk from historic Lock 53. The site sits close to the Potomac River, making it one of the nearest hiker-biker overnight spots to the water along this section of the canal.
The campsite provides basic amenities including a picnic table, fire ring, and well with pump, though one reviewer notes the pump handle requires some effort to operate. Sasha W. found the site well-maintained, noting "Nothing makes me happier than a clean campsite" and appreciated that dumpsters are available for trash disposal. The road leading to the campsite receives good marks from visitors for accessibility.
Tent setup options may be limited due to sloped terrain in some areas of the site. Multiple reviewers mention the location's quietness, away from road noise and crowds. Mountain biking is popular here, with the towpath providing easy riding for families. Summer visitors should prepare for mosquitoes, as one camper reported using an entire bottle of bug spray during their stay.
The campground operates under a no-pets policy. For those exploring the broader region, camping near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park offers additional overnight options along the historic waterway.
Description
Mile 129.9 - There is no driving access to this campsite. No fee charged. First come, first served. Stay is limited to one night per site, per trip. Campground has a chemical toilet, water, a picnic table, and grill. 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 CampgroundLeopards Mill Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is located in Maryland
Directions
More information is available at http://www.nps.gov/choh/.
Coordinates
39.651928 N
78.240155 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 users
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 users
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
Drive Time
- 28 min from Hagerstown, MD
- 45 min from Winchester, VA
- 46 min from Chambersburg, PA
- 1 hr 15 min from Gettysburg, PA





