Dispersed camping near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park offers primitive options across a 50-mile radius. During summer months, temperatures in this Mid-Atlantic region often exceed 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the optimal camping seasons. Terrain varies dramatically from the relatively flat canal towpath to the rugged 1,000+ foot ridgelines of nearby national forest land.
What to do
Fly fishing opportunities: Cedar Creek Trail campsite provides convenient access to trout streams. Spencer W. noted, "After the intersection, the road will turn into a trail (marked by a metal gate) and there is a campsite right there. Was very peaceful and clean. Had an established fire ring."
Hiking connections: Many dispersed sites connect to regional trail networks. At Little Fort Campground, SJ W. mentioned, "There are a couple small trails around the area not any great views but it is very peaceful in the woods."
Wildlife observation: Camp at Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area for bird watching and educational opportunities. Frank G. shared his experience: "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."
What campers like
Self-service system: At Little Fort Campground, campers appreciate the simple registration process. A Dan needs A. explains, "You select a campsite by flipping a washer on a hook on the board from green to red. Flip it back when you leave."
Ridge-top camping: Zepp Mountain Dispersed sites offer solitude on higher elevations. Matthew M. from Little Fort noted a similar experience at his campground: "Got the last site at 6PM on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend. Very respectful neighbors so it was very quiet."
Roadside accessibility: The Squirrel Gap Rd Dispersed sites balance accessibility with privacy. Dexter V. describes, "Quite a few miles down Squirrel Gap Rd. There is another sunnier sight a little before this one. But this one is right off the road, entrance is steep. Decent sized area, stone fire ring, plenty of firewood."
What you should know
No cellular coverage: Many sites have limited or no phone service. Lindsay C. warns about Little Fort Campground: "I had no service at all starting from about 20 minutes away from the site, so I wouldn't count on having any reception."
Confusing fee structures: Some management areas have unclear payment systems. Jim M. observed at Edwards Run: "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."
Site competition: Popular areas fill quickly on weekends. For Stultz Gap Dispersed Campsite, Spencer W. noted conditions can be variable: "The spot itself is right next to the road. The map seems to indicate trails connected but they appear very overgrown."
Tips for camping with families
Consider tent platforms: Some sites provide better sleeping surfaces. Sawyer B. noted at Little Fort Campground: "Site had a fire pit, table, parking spot, and tent platform. We used one of the sign in slips but many of the other campers did not."
Accessible fishing: Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area offers beginner-friendly fishing spots. Frank G. confirmed it's a "Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing, but the campground area leaves a little to be desired."
Noise considerations: Check for nearby recreational activities that might create noise. SJ W. mentioned that Little Fort is "next to an off-road vehicle trail and there was a lot of action coming down until about 7 PM. Wouldn't have bothered me, but it did bother my dogs."
Tips from RVers
Road clearance issues: Forest service roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. Kevin C. advised about Squirrel Hollow Road Camping: "Sites are easily accessible by car or with a small teardrop trailer. True boondocking, haul it in, pack it out."
Weekend planning: Jon D. from Squirrel Hollow Road Camping shared: "Large campsites and relatively quite. We took two vehicles and found several suitable sites. Traffic was light with one pickup overnight and a small convoy of motorcycles the next morning."
Seasonal awareness: Logging operations affect accessibility. Kevin C. observed at Squirrel Hollow: "Some traffic related to logging activity. Looks like a popular weekend camp spot for locals. We camped during the week and had nobody else camping on weekdays."
