Anglers and canal trail enthusiasts gain direct access to the Potomac River and C&O Canal towpath at this basic National Park Service campground. Spring Gap sits between the historic canal and river, offering a boat ramp for water access and serving as a staging point for the 12-mile bike ride into Cumberland. The single loop contains approximately 10 sites on open, grassy terrain with no privacy between spots.
Sites 1-8 provide river views, though vegetation may obstruct sightlines during growing season. Site 9 offers the most privacy despite limited views. Roger W. notes that "views may be more obstructed in the spring" compared to fall conditions. The campground accommodates RVs up to 20 feet with no hookups available. Hand-pump well water and chemical toilets serve as the only amenities.
Road noise from nearby Route 51 and occasional train traffic affect the atmosphere. The location provides convenient access to historic canal locks and Cumberland's downtown area. Generators are permitted during designated hours.
Campers seeking more developed facilities can explore campgrounds near Oldtown for additional amenities and site options.
Description
Overview
The Spring Gap Campground is located at Mile 173.3 on the C&O Canal Towpath, near the city of Cumberland on the Maryland side of the Potomac River. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
Recreation
The most popular activities for Spring Gap campers are hiking the local trails, biking the C&O Canal Towpath, paddling and fishing. The campground has a boat ramp for easy access to the Potomac River for kayakers and anglers alike. Be sure to acquire a Maryland Fishing License for those age 16 or older.
Facilities
Spring Gap Campground offers 12 single drive-in campsites and two drive-in group sites. Campsites 1, 2, 8, 11 and 13 can fit a single vehicle (i.e., car/pickup/van). Campsites 3-7, 12, 14 can fit a small 20 ft. length or smaller RV/trailer/pop-up. Single sites can accommodate up to eight people. Each single has a picnic table, fire pit and grill. Campsites 9 and 10 are group sites capable of holding 30 people each. The group site has room for two vehicles. The group site has four picnic tables, a fire pit and grill. Pit and portable toilets are available. Hand pump water is available April 15 - November 1.
Natural Features
Tucked in the mountains of Western Maryland and adjacent to Cumberland, MD, experience the history and culture of the area as well as its natural beauty, which is plentiful all times of the year but, especially during autumn.
Nearby Attractions
The C&O Canal National Historical Park Cumberland Visitor Center is in Cumberland, MD, open seven days a week. Also in Cumberland, MD: the Allegany Museum, Gordon-Roberts House, Gilchrist Gallery and the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad are all worth a visit.
Contact Info
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (301) 739-4200.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsSpring Gap Campground is located in Maryland near Oldtown
Directions
From Cumberland, MD: Follow MD State Route 51 South/East Industrial Road for approximately 7 miles (11 km). Spring Gap Campground will be directly off 51, on the right side of the road.
Coordinates
39.5646417 N
78.7179139 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 1 hr 5 min from Hagerstown, MD
- 1 hr 5 min from Winchester, VA
- 1 hr 21 min from Johnstown, PA
- 1 hr 23 min from Chambersburg, PA
