Camping near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park occurs along the 184.5-mile towpath that stretches from Washington D.C. to Cumberland, Maryland. The canal corridor runs through a valley with elevation ranging from 50 to 605 feet, creating diverse camping conditions from riverside locations to more elevated wooded areas. Weather conditions vary significantly with hot, humid summers and occasional winter closures at campgrounds in the higher elevations.
What to do
River activities: Access points at Brunswick Family Campground provide direct Potomac River access. "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 camper Brian S.
Hiking the C&O Canal: The towpath runs through many campgrounds, offering flat terrain ideal for day hikes. "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 Susan K.
Historical exploration: Harpers Ferry Campground offers access to nearby historical sites. "The hike that leads to the lookout about harpers ferry was fantastic. This hike takes you well above the town settled in West Virginia. While some points are pretty steep don't let this deter you from completing it," recommends Anthony S.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access, particularly along the Potomac River. "Nice river front sites, and pool in the campground. Close to historic Harpers Ferry and lots of great hiking," notes Beth C.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Harpers Ferry Campground features riverside camping. "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," writes Darcy S.
Spacious camping areas: Lazy A Campground offers generous site dimensions. "This campground is fantastic for kids and pets. Lots of wide open space to run and play. The owners are fantastic! So friendly and accommodating," shares Casey L.
Food delivery options: Some campgrounds offer unexpected conveniences. "Very cool spot. Amazing sites right on the Potomac. There is a Ale House above the office that delivers for free to your site (2.5 miles away), just tip the driver," reports Eric J.
Affordable rates: Several campgrounds maintain reasonable pricing compared to urban areas. "We got a discount for staying 2 nights so it was only $29 a night. Don't buy the $25 firewood it'll be gone in one night they have wood throughout the campground go forage!" advises Mikala S.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some wells in the region contain mineral content. "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," warns Adam and Suzanne B. at Lazy A Campground.
Train noise impacts: Round Top Campground and others have nearby train tracks. "There is a train going through day and night. For me it's a minor inconvenience and my daughter, who even as a baby, slept through it. Do bring ear plugs if you're a light sleeper," advises Maggie A.
Off-season facility closures: Many campgrounds reduce services outside peak season. "Spots are tight, Water pressure is low, road traffic noise. Water and electric are in award spot on our site. Golf course setup for spooky time of year," reports Alice G.
Variable maintenance: Campground conditions can vary significantly between properties and seasons. "Trees and mountain area is pleasant. Lots of activities for kids. Basketball court recently updated. Spots are tight, Water pressure is low, road traffic noise," notes Alice G.
Tips for camping with families
Proximity to attractions: Gettysburg Campground provides convenient access to historic sites. "If you are looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you," writes Jim G.
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds are near historical sites with educational value. "We found a river access point perfect for swimming and wading," notes Jason G. who stayed at Fort Valley Ranch.
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with built-in entertainment. "Really nice wooded campground with waterpark. This campground has tons of nice cabins and tent sites, all in wooded surroundings. There is a small creek to play in and a nice little hiking trail within the campground," shares Beth C. at Jellystone Park Williamsport.
Fishing ponds: Multiple campgrounds feature stocked fishing areas. "The kids were able to fish for hours at the two fishing ponds, which both were stocked with bass and bluegill," reports Jason G.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in this region require additional equipment. "Our site (site 3) was an easy level pull-through site, making the setup/breakdown very quick and painless. All the RV sites were impressively level, with only minimal leveling needed," notes Jason G. at Fort Valley Ranch.
Water pressure variability: Across multiple rv camping near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park locations, water systems differ significantly. "It has tent sites and level rv sites with 30 amp and water. No sewer. And one 50 amp site. Most sites have partial shade from the tree line," reports Erica M.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads for larger rigs. "I was initially concerned about the road leading into the campground, as my rig is over 50 feet in total length. However, we were surprised that the winding roads presented no issues for us," shares Jason G.
