Want to go dispersed camping near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park? Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, including photos, reviews, and tips. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park's most popular destinations.
Map: https://wvdnr.gov/wmamapproj/pdf/pdf300/EdwardsRunFinal11x17_300dpi.pdf
Primitive camping is provided as well as parking, a pit toilet and trash cans. Get your DNR permit and enjoy a day in the woods.
The 397-acre Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is principally forested in oak and hickory though it includes approximately 17 acres of brush and scattered clearing. Deer, squirrel, and turkey are the principal species hunted in the management area. Edwards Run, a tributary of the Cacapon River, accommodates fishing for trout and is stocked from February until May. Six primitive campsites with pit toilets have been developed in the management area.
Directions: Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area is located in eastern Hampshire County two miles north of Capon Bridge, WV. To reach the area from Capon Bridge, follow highway US-50 to WV-15 north.
Edwards Run WMA is managed by the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources. It was formerly known as the Edwards Run Public Hunting & Fishing Area.
Gravel Springs Hut is 0.2 mi south of Gravel Springs Gap and another 0.2 mi down
Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed areas and other campers. Dispersed camping requires extra responsibilities and skills.
Keep a pack-in pack-out camp. Amenities like water, restrooms or trash cans are not provided.
There are no fees or permit required for dispersed camping in small groups. Group size is limited to no more than 10 people in a designated Wilderness.
Camping stay is limited to 21 consecutive days.
Please camp at least 200 feet from any stream or other water source.
Contact the local District Office to see if any restrictions are in place.
Use a good map to ensure you are not on private land.
Be bear aware: keep a clean camp and keep food out of reach of bears.
Guide
This was my first experience camping with no hookups. The park is very large, with interesting trails to explore. I had not been aware of the abandoned PA turnpike that runs through the park; very interesting and haunting. It’s extremely quiet, with not a whole lot to do, but very peaceful. A terrific place to see the stars. And while it’s not free, it’s only $10/night.
Scout
Great Hammock camping off the trail near shawls gap
Guidejust 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.
GuideAs 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.
Traveler
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.
Travelervery sketched out my girlfriend and i had to leave. just didn’t feel welcomed there was no one around
Legend
Not our favorite campground. If you’re a through hiker, it’ll get the job done though. There were three other people camping the night we were there. Lots of bugs. Hiked in from the Dickey ridge trail parking lot.
TravelerI 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.
GuideI'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.
Ranger
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.
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.