Top Free Dispersed Camping near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Searching for a dispersed campsite near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, MD (9)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

9 Reviews of 9 Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Buchanan State Forest
    July 9, 2024

    Buchanan State Forest

    Dyrt is wrong , AGAIN

    just pulled in and 1st spot looks great except it says on the sign THAT YOU NEED A PERMIT , DYRT So F'ing glad I paid for pro to show me the free campsites OH WAIT I JUST PAID $51.50 FOR 3 NIGHTS TO STAY AT THIS "FREE" SITE. Greed Is Killing America. Dyrt should give refunds.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area
    March 19, 2024

    Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area

    Road side site is not too bad

    As I pulled in there was a kiosk with a sign that said $10 camping fee but no info on how or where to pay. I tried to look at the WVDNR website but couldn't find it there either, However no one came by. Other than that the site was level and grassy. Nice camp site.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
    November 5, 2023

    Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site

    Amazing Campsite

    Breathtaking views of the Shenandoah River and surrounding mountains. Very much worth the 4 mile hike up to the site. 1,200ft elevation difference from the trailhead to the site. Cell service at the top (not during the hike or on the road to the trailhead so prepare directions). Went up in November with beautiful weather, fall leaves changing and great company. Couldn’t have had a better experience.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area
    December 6, 2022

    Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area

    Hike in

    I spent a night here. There's a lot by the road that looks like it's where they want you to camp but there are better sites on in. Just gotta hike to em. Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing, but the campground area leaves a little to be desired.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site
    February 2, 2022

    Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site

    My favorite Hike in the area

    I've both day hiked this and backpacked here several times. You will want to drive in and park at the Veach Gap Trailhead which is listed on Google Maps, then follow the trail and make the left when it comes to the intersection. It is about 4 miles up, so not too bad, but there is no water after the first mile. I have seen a small trickle part way up the mountain, but don't count on it. Pack up all the water you will need for the day/evening/morning. Once you get to the top there are several sites with little fire rings, and since it is on the ridgeline, the views are breathtaking. I've had good luck finding wood from dead trees at the top, but just make sure you're being safe and treating nature kindly. Follow the Leave no Trace rules so the next campers can enjoy this spot too.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Gravel Springs Hut — Shenandoah National Park
    November 28, 2018

    Gravel Springs Hut — Shenandoah National Park

    Nice stop on the Appalachian Trail

    The hut is 3 sides and open on the 4th, the open side faces the fire pit. There is a picnic table, privy, bear locker, and bear pole to hang additional items at the site. The hut sleeps 8 and is first come, first serve. You may end up meeting some new friends there because of this. If the hut is full, there are some tent sites available. Also the spring for water is located very close by.



Guide to Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Camping near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Maryland, offers a mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature while exploring the rich history of the park.

What to do:

  • Hiking: The area is known for its beautiful trails. At Greenbrier State Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "Great hiking to Annapolis Rocks or the Washington Monument right from the park, no need to drive!" This makes it easy to enjoy the scenery without the hassle of transportation.
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Cowans Gap State Park Campground is a great choice. A visitor shared, "We brought our kayaks and had a nice day paddling around the lake," highlighting the opportunities for both fishing and kayaking.
  • Swimming: For a refreshing dip, check out Cunningham Falls State Park. One reviewer noted, "The swimming lake is excellent," making it a perfect spot for families looking to cool off.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. At Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders, a guest remarked, "The bathrooms were phenomenal, great hot showers," which adds to the overall camping experience.
  • Friendly staff: Many campers enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. A visitor at Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA said, "Staff was always friendly and accommodating," making it easier to relax and enjoy their stay.
  • Scenic views: Campgrounds near the park offer stunning landscapes. One camper at Green Ridge State Forest mentioned, "There are plenty of beautiful scenery and you can hear the beautiful sounds of nature," which enhances the camping experience.

What you should know:

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or train tracks. A camper at Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders warned, "Busiest train corridor I’ve ever experienced," which might disrupt your peace.
  • Site spacing: Campsites can be close together, especially at popular spots. A visitor at Cunningham Falls State Park noted, "The campsites were relatively small and close together," so be prepared for some neighborly interactions.
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A reviewer at Owens Creek Campground mentioned, "Only basic amenities, but dump station," which is something to keep in mind when planning your trip.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with swimming areas and playgrounds. At Cunningham Falls State Park, a parent shared, "My kids also LOVED the swimming lake," making it a great choice for families.
  • Quiet sites: Choose campsites that are a bit more secluded for a peaceful experience. A camper at Green Ridge State Forest said, "Most of the campsites are spread out," which can help keep the noise down.
  • Plan for meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks to keep everyone happy. A visitor at Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA mentioned, "Great food amenities," which can be a lifesaver for busy families.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site levels: Make sure to choose a level site for your RV. A reviewer at Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders noted, "Our site was so unlevel that I was not able to get the RV leveled the entire weekend," which can be frustrating.
  • Be mindful of space: Some campgrounds have tight spaces for larger RVs. A camper at Candy Hill Campground said, "Sites are a little tight," so plan accordingly.
  • Know your hookups: Check what utilities are available at your chosen campground. A visitor at Cowans Gap State Park Campground mentioned, "Decent sized sites, clean bath houses," which can help you prepare for your stay.

Camping near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Maryland, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just enjoying the scenery, there's something for every camper to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park is Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area with a 3-star rating from 2 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park?

    TheDyrt.com has all 9 dispersed camping locations near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.