Camping along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park corridor offers diverse terrain ranging from riverside flats to forested hillsides. Most campgrounds in this area sit between 250-500 feet elevation with seasonal changes that significantly impact camping conditions. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide more moderate camping weather with overnight lows that can drop into the 40s.
What to do
River activities: Access the Potomac River directly from Brunswick Family Campground, where campers can wade, fish, or launch boats. "The river is beautifully clean clear and cool. There wasn't much late night going on it seemed all the campers for the most part were turned in by 11," notes one visitor who appreciated the water quality.
Historic exploration: Camp near Harpers Ferry Campground for direct trail access to significant historical sites. "If you would like to do some exploring, then you can walk the trail right next to the campground into the historical town of Harper's Ferry. The trail is about 1.5 miles one way," explains a camper who enjoyed the proximity to historical attractions.
Cycling and hiking: The C&O Canal towpath provides miles of flat, car-free trails for biking and hiking directly accessible from several campgrounds. "Also situated on the C&O canal, so you could walk or bike for miles in either direction for hours! Harpers Ferry is only 6 miles away on the trail," reports a Brunswick Family Campground visitor.
Horseback riding: Fort Valley Ranch combines camping with equestrian activities. "The availability of horseback trail riding was an added bonus," mentions one visitor who appreciated this unique camping option that's uncommon at other area facilities.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many campers specifically seek riverside campsites for the ambiance and recreational opportunities. "Gorgeous spot on the river. Small campground with not a lot of amenities BUT THAT RIVER IS GORGEOUS. Lots of activities - tubing, zip lining, fishing," shares a visitor at Harpers Ferry Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds maintain stocked fishing ponds in addition to river access. At Fort Valley Ranch, "The kids were able to fish for hours at the two fishing ponds, which both were stocked with bass and bluegill."
Multi-use trails: Direct trail connectivity ranks high for campers seeking car-free adventures. "The C&O Canal towpath cuts right through to allow for some great walks," notes one Brunswick Family Campground visitor who appreciated being able to start adventures directly from their site.
Proximity to attractions: Gettysburg Campground provides strategic positioning for historical exploration. "Great spot. Nice creek with ducks. Close to battlefield," states a camper highlighting the location advantages that make day trips convenient.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks border several campgrounds in the region, creating persistent noise issues. A Harpers Ferry Campground visitor explains: "You are directly next to train tracks but being from the city, this noise doesn't bother my husband or me. The camp ground is part of river riders which offers lazy tubing, white water tubing, zip lining, and great kayaking down the river."
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate seasonally, typically closing from November through March. Only select RV campgrounds near Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park remain open year-round.
Water quality issues: Some locations experience mineral-related water concerns. At Lazy A Campground, one camper reported: "The only reason it lost a star is that the water has sulfur. It smells and it stained our brand-new toilet and we had to replace all our water filters after one weekend."
Site spacing: Campground density varies widely across the region. "The RV sites and tent sites are separated by a drive down the road," explains a visitor to Little Orleans Campground, providing insight into how different camping styles are accommodated.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Lazy A Campground provides open space for children to play safely. "This campground is fantastic for kids and pets. Lots of wide open space to run and play," notes a visitor who found the layout especially suitable for families with young children.
Playground access: Many campgrounds maintain play equipment for younger visitors. "The campground has an abundance of things to do. The campground offers adventures like rafting, biking, tubing and zip lining to name a few," reports a Harpers Ferry Campground visitor describing the range of activities available.
Swimming options: River access provides natural swimming opportunities at various locations. "It has a creek for swimming or wading at your own risk," explains a Lazy A visitor, noting that while swimming is available, parental supervision remains important as facilities typically don't provide lifeguards.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region present difficulties for larger rigs. A visitor to Harpers Ferry Civil War Battlefields KOA warns: "Heads up, big rig owners! Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air."
Water hookup locations: The positioning of utilities often requires additional equipment. "Our site was level and had well-maintained utility hook-ups," notes another Harpers Ferry KOA camper, highlighting the variability of site quality even within the same facility.
Electric reliability: Power stability varies among campgrounds, particularly during peak usage periods. Electrical service typically ranges from 30-amp to 50-amp, with fewer campgrounds offering the latter.
