Established Camping
Fifteen Mile Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in all Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park campgrounds.
Fifteen Mile Campground, near Potomac, Maryland, is a charming spot that offers a laid-back camping experience right by the Potomac River. With its open spaces nestled in a pine forest, it’s perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without the frills—just bring what you need and settle in.
This campground is a favorite for its clean sites and easy access to the C&O Towpath Trail, making it a great base for biking or hiking. Visitors have noted the lovely views of the river and the peaceful atmosphere, especially during the week. One camper mentioned, “Quiet during the week. Water access and biking/hiking trail. Beautiful place in the early morning hours.”
Amenities are simple but functional, with picnic tables, fire rings, and pit toilets available. There’s no electricity, so solar power is the way to go if you need it. Plus, you can launch your paddle boat or canoe right from the campground, which adds a nice touch for water lovers.
If you’re looking to grab a bite or some supplies, Little Orleans is just a short drive away, with a few eateries and a convenience store. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Fifteen Mile Campground offers a peaceful retreat where you can unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.
Description
National Park Service
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Overview
The Fifteen Mile Creek Campground is located at Mile 140 on the C&O Canal Towpath, in the town of Little Orleans upstream of Hancock and downstream of Paw Paw, WV, on the Maryland side of the of the Potomac River. The campsites are drive-in, large enough to park a small fifth wheel/travel trailer/RV/pop-out with a 20' ft. maximum. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
Recreation
The most popular activity for Fifteen Mile Creek campers is boating and fishing. The campground has a boat ramp for easy access to the Potomac River for kayakers and fisherman alike. Be sure to acquire a Maryland Fishing License for those age 16 or older.
Facilities
The campground has nine single drive-in campsites. There is one group site available that does not have direct vehicle access. The group site can accommodate 30 people. Each single will accommodate up to eight people. Single campsites have a picnic table, fire ring and grill. Protected pit toilets are located between campsite #3 and campsite #4 along the dead end circle. Potable hand pump water is available from April 15 - October 31. No motor vehicle traffic is allowed on the towpath. Parking is allowed in the drive-in campsites and the adjacent parking lot for vehicles with trailers and support vehicles for the group site.
Natural Features
Fifteen Mile Creek Campground is adjacent to the confluence of Fifteen Mile Creek and the Potomac River on the Maryland side. Tucked in the mountains of Western Maryland and adjacent to Green Ridge State Forest, natural beauty is plentiful all times of the year, but especially during autumn.
Nearby Attractions
Greenridge State Forest and Billmeyer Wildlife Management Area are state managed areas available for additional activities. This area is remote.
Contact Info
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (301) 739-4200.
Location
Fifteen Mile Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is located in Maryland
Directions
From Hagerstown: Take I-70 W to I-68 W. Take Exit 68 towards Little Orleans. Follow Orleans Rd for 4 miles. Make a left on High Germany Rd. and it will dead end at the campground. From Cumberland: Take I-68 east for 25 miles to exit 68 and then follow Orleans Road for 4 miles. Make a left on High Germany Rd and it will dead end in the park.RV and Oversized Vehicle Warning: Do not use GPS as it will try to take you through a low clearance tunnel. After taking Exit 68, stay on Orleans Rd for 3 miles then turn left onto High Germany Rd. at the intersection of Mountain Rd, High Germany Rd, and Orleans Rd. Stay on High Germany Rd for 3 miles. Campsite will be on the left.
Coordinates
39.6247333 N
78.3848417 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiGood
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TAvailable
- T-MobileFair
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 42 min from Hagerstown
- 1 hr from Chambersburg
- 1 hr 10 min from Winchester
- 1 hr 37 min from Johnstown
