Best Tent Camping near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park in Maryland

Looking for tent camping near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park? With The Dyrt, it's easy to find Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park campgrounds for you and your tent. Search nearby tent campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park (34)

    Chanel B.'s photo of tent camping at Antietam Creek Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Sharpsburg, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Antietam Creek Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Sharpsburg, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Antietam Creek Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Sharpsburg, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Antietam Creek Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Sharpsburg, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Antietam Creek Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Sharpsburg, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Antietam Creek Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Sharpsburg, MD

    1. Antietam Creek Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

    11 Reviews
    24 Photos
    119 Saves
    Sharpsburg, Maryland

    Overview

    The Antietam Creek Campground is located at Mile 69.4 on the C&O Canal Towpath, a few miles south of Shepherdstown on the Maryland side of the Potomac River. The campsites are nestled in the woods between the Canal and the Potomac River and they are a short distance from many recreational opportunities. Fishing, boating and hiking are but a few possibilities while staying at Antietam Creek Campground.

    Recreation

    Popular activities at Antietam Creek include boating and fishing. Kayaking the creek and surrounding areas during various times of the year are scenic and ever changing. Nearby boat ramps at Dargan Bend and Snyders Landing provide motor boat access to the river. Fishing is also a popular pastime in both the watered sections of the C&O Canal the Potomac River. Be sure to acquire a Maryland Fishing License for those age 16 or older. West Virginia Licenses are approved for fishing in the Potomac only.

    Natural Features

    Antietam Creek Campground is just south of Sharpsburg, MD. Antietam Creek is a typically mild and slow moving creek which feeds into the much larger and faster Potomac River directly adjacent to the campsite. River rise and floods can modify conditions quickly here.

    Nearby Attractions

    Antietam Battlefield, South Mountain Recreation Area and Harpers Ferry National Historical Park all provide additional hiking and history adventures specifically about the Civil War Era.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations A cancellation is the release of a confirmed reservation prior to the start of the defined late cancellation time frame which results in non-use by the original customer. Camping and Day Use Facilities Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. Late Cancellations or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window Individual Campsites: A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. Group Facility: Customers who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee. Group Day Use Area: Customers who cancel a group day-use facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will forfeit the total day-use fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $10 / night

    Russ L.'s photo of tent camping at Sky Meadows State Park Campground near Paris, VA
    Camper-submitted photo at Sky Meadows State Park Campground near Paris, VA
    Camper-submitted photo at Sky Meadows State Park Campground near Paris, VA
    Camper-submitted photo at Sky Meadows State Park Campground near Paris, VA
    Camper-submitted photo at Sky Meadows State Park Campground near Paris, VA
    Camper-submitted photo at Sky Meadows State Park Campground near Paris, VA

    2. Sky Meadows State Park Campground

    11 Reviews
    35 Photos
    131 Saves
    Paris, Virginia
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo at Annapolis Rock Campground — Appalachian National Scenic Trail near Myersville, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Annapolis Rock Campground — Appalachian National Scenic Trail near Myersville, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Annapolis Rock Campground — Appalachian National Scenic Trail near Myersville, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Annapolis Rock Campground — Appalachian National Scenic Trail near Myersville, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Annapolis Rock Campground — Appalachian National Scenic Trail near Myersville, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Annapolis Rock Campground — Appalachian National Scenic Trail near Myersville, MD
    Jennifer D.'s photo of tent camping at Mulehalla near Williamsport, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Mulehalla near Williamsport, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Mulehalla near Williamsport, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Mulehalla near Williamsport, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Mulehalla near Williamsport, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Mulehalla near Williamsport, MD

    4. Mulehalla

    1 Review
    16 Photos
    18 Saves
    Williamsport, Maryland

    Located right off of the C&O; Canal, there are plenty of sites available at Mulehalla for those who prefer rustic camping. These spots offer a quieter more rugged camping experience. Explore the C&O; Canal or cool off in the Potomac River. Bring your gear, make some memories, and be sure to leave no trace! Firewood is available for$5.00 a bundle.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Glamping

    $30 - $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Dahlgren Backpacker Campground in Greenbrier State Park Campground near Boonsboro, MD

    5. Dahlgren Backpacker Campground in Greenbrier State Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    21 Saves
    Boonsboro, Maryland
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo at Jordan Junction Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Williamsport, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Jordan Junction Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Williamsport, MD

    6. Jordan Junction Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    6 Saves
    Williamsport, Maryland

    Mile 101.2 - THiker-biker campgrounds are located along the towpath approximately every 5-7 miles. No fee or reservation required. Overnight stays are limited to one night. All sites include a chemical toilet, picnic table, grill, and water. Please Note: Water at hiker-biker campsites is non-potable. Water is not treated and not for drinking or cooking. If you use this water, you are advised to filter, chemically treat, or boil before use. Water is turned off from mid-November to mid-April each year.

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets
    The Dyrt's photo of tent camping at Paw Paw Tunnel Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Little Orleans, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Paw Paw Tunnel Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Little Orleans, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Paw Paw Tunnel Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Little Orleans, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Paw Paw Tunnel Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Little Orleans, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Paw Paw Tunnel Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Little Orleans, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Paw Paw Tunnel Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Little Orleans, MD

    7. Paw Paw Tunnel Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

    4 Reviews
    22 Photos
    34 Saves
    Little Orleans, Maryland

    Overview

    The Paw Paw Tunnel Campground is located at Mile 156 on the C&O Canal Towpath on the Maryland side of the Potomac River, across from the town of Paw Paw in West Virginia.

    Recreation

    The most popular activities for Paw Paw Tunnel campers are hiking the Paw Paw Tunnel trails, biking the C&O Canal Towpath, kayaking and fishing. The local town of Paw Paw, WV, has a boat ramp for easy access to the Potomac just across the river via surface roads. Be sure to acquire a Maryland Fishing License for those age 16 or older.

    Natural Features

    Tucked in the mountains of Western Maryland and adjacent to Green Ridge State Forest, experience the history and culture of the area as well as its natural beauty, which is plentiful all times of the year, but especially during autumn.

    Nearby Attractions

    Green Ridge State Forest is a local park to continue your adventures. Cumberland is 25 miles west on MD 51.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations A cancellation is the release of a confirmed reservation prior to the start of the defined late cancellation time frame which results in non-use by the original customer. Camping and Day Use Facilities Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. Late Cancellations or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window Individual Campsites: A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. Group Facility: Customers who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee. Group Day Use Area: Customers who cancel a group day-use facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will forfeit the total day-use fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Picnic Table

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Horseshoe Bend Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Sharpsburg, MD

    8. Horseshoe Bend Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

    1 Review
    9 Saves
    Sharpsburg, Maryland

    Mile 79.2 - Hiker-biker campgrounds are located along the towpath approximately every 5-7 miles. No fee or reservation required. Overnight stays are limited to one night. All sites include a chemical toilet, picnic table, grill, and water. Please Note: Water at hiker-biker campsites is non-potable. Water is not treated and not for drinking or cooking. If you use this water, you are advised to filter, chemically treat, or boil before use. Water is turned off from mid-November to mid-April each year.

    • Tents
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo at Stoney Creek Campground near Little Orleans, WV
    Camper-submitted photo at Stoney Creek Campground near Little Orleans, WV
    Camper-submitted photo at Stoney Creek Campground near Little Orleans, WV
    Camper-submitted photo at Stoney Creek Campground near Little Orleans, WV
    Camper-submitted photo at Stoney Creek Campground near Little Orleans, WV
    Camper-submitted photo at Stoney Creek Campground near Little Orleans, WV

    9. Stoney Creek Campground

    1 Review
    7 Photos
    44 Saves
    Little Orleans, Maryland

    PLEASE CHECK HipCamp site for Availability before booking with Dyrt. Enjoy one of our two large, beautiful and secluded sites with friends or family. We now have four sites. You should only see neighbors when going to bathhouse. Kayak, boat or tube(bring your own). Fish or watch wildlife. Nearby attractions if the river is not enough. Any site can host up to 30 people , depending on how many tents you bring. Cacapon River allows for fishing, kayaking/canoeing or tubing. You can put in upstream for a full day trip and camp overnight. Stoney Creek Country Store within a short walk for your fishing, necessities, milkshake, and subs/pizza. Almost Heaven Riverfront South site is a little closer to the bridge, but slightly bigger than the North site. It's also closer to the bathhouse and WiFi. It has best river access to kayak upstream. Almost Heaven Riverfront North site is a little more private. It is further downstream from the bridge and bathhouse. It has best river access to kayak downstream. You should be able to paddle back with relative ease. Each site gets a private (keyless/code entry) restroom/shower.

    Read reviews/check availability here: https://www.hipcamp.com/discover/west-virginia/stoney-creek-campground

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Market

    $99 - $175 / night

    cecile A.'s photo of tent camping at Gathland State Park Campground near Burkittsville, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Gathland State Park Campground near Burkittsville, MD
    Camper-submitted photo at Gathland State Park Campground near Burkittsville, MD

    10. Gathland State Park Campground

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    45 Saves
    Burkittsville, Maryland
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Toilets
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Showing results 1-10 of 34 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

958 Reviews of 34 Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park Campgrounds


  • Sammii D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rvino - Ridge Rider Campground, LLC
    Sep. 27, 2021

    Rvino - Ridge Rider Campground, LLC

    Pretty nice campground!

    Campground is pretty big. The RV sites and tent sites are separated by a drive down the road. The RV side has all the cool stuff; store, pavilion, basketball courts, playground, etc. The tent camping side is just an open field with a pit and picnic table. I tent camped this time around and it's was pretty well spaced out. There weren't many of us in the field so it was pretty nice. The RV side has a ton of seasonal residences. The most half RV/half homes I've ever scene! (A few in the pictures) it's wild. Those sites have a pretty decent amount of space too. The pond has a bunch of ducks that are VERY well fed. One in particular might have been too well fed and maybe sick? Not sure.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from William Houck Campground
    Apr. 30, 2019

    William Houck Campground

    Perfectly awesome

    We stayed here May 1st, one night, it was a weekday night so we pretty much had the place to ourselves. I start my review with that because we have heard this place can get very busy. They said it has long already been completely (180 sites!) booked for Memorial Day. That being said, we tent camped, it cost about $25. We bought three bags of their kiln dried wood which made for a wonderful and easy fire ($15), the tent sites were perfectly flat with crushed gravel and fire rings. The place was CLEAN as heck, the bathroom/shower were so clean it was like it must have been built last week. I mean seriously in perfect condition, water was hot the sites are not on top of each other and each has its own designated parking area. The surrounding park is seriously gorgeous. You cannot go wrong here, we enjoyed every single second.

  • Jeanette M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Crows Nest Campground
    Aug. 1, 2022

    Crows Nest Campground

    Great for a Weekend Getaway

    I don’t normally go camping in a Tent but I feel like it’s something I want you more often, I think this place is a great place to go for the weekend with the kids.

  • Danielle W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cowans Gap State Park Campground
    Jul. 13, 2018

    Cowans Gap State Park Campground

    Great camping summer or fall...

    We went to Cowans gap last full for a Halloween weekend and the children loved it. We even won the campsite decorating contest. We went this summer and camped in A-tent with friends of ours who had never done it Before & After the amazing trip at callans gap they want to do it again. Awesome beach, nice sights, And a quiet area what more could you want.

  • MAX F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Millesons Walnut Grove Campgound
    Oct. 22, 2023

    Millesons Walnut Grove Campgound

    Nice place with great riverside spots

    We really Enjoyed the spot, there aren’t a lot of tent sites, it’s mostly RV sites, pretty big campground as far as the RV sites go. The tent sites are by the river. It was a pretty quiet campground.

  • Sammii D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Winery
    Sep. 30, 2021

    Camp Winery

    Beautiful!

    Very beautiful spot, did some tent camping. Close to many cool things in the area too

  • Bridget H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground
    Oct. 27, 2020

    Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground

    Trails and Water

    We legit loved this park! I took my grandkids tent camping and we had a wonderful experience. We brought our bikes and hit the trails. It was some great times. We had electricity and water and the bathrooms were close to our site. The park is on the Shenandoah River and there are multiple spots to put in and take out. There is primitive tent camping down by the river which looks fantastic. We definitely loved the trails with hiking and biking options. We will definitely go here again.

  • Ron H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Bennett Campground
    Mar. 26, 2022

    Little Bennett Campground

    Nice quite and spacious campground

    This is our second time here. This place is quiet the spaces are big. They can accommodate large campers,ours is 35 ft. Tent camping have big areas. Lost of nature trails.

  • Theresa D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Caledonia State Park Campground
    Apr. 5, 2023

    Caledonia State Park Campground

    Beautiful park, loud road

    I tent camped here about 30 yrs ago and was so happy to come back! But, the nearby Rt 30, especially before leaves return to the trees, is a major commuter route and soooo loud!

  • Dave G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg Campground
    Jul. 14, 2016

    Gettysburg Campground

    Family campground that's great for base camp.

    Stayed here in October while family stayed in hotels. This is a family campground and is mostly occupied by RV's who stay long term. Tent sites are spacious and fits 2 cars, sites fit 2-3 tents. The tent sites have numerous walnut trees, so there's a bit of a hazard there when walking around trying to dodge the falling nuts (cars are targets too!). The campground is pretty close to downtown Gettysburg if you're looking for restaurants/shops. It's in the heart of the battlefield access points and trails. The campground usually puts on various activities, parties, etc, mainly kid oriented. This is a nice site/area for base camping in the fall.

  • Marie H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg Campground
    Sep. 4, 2018

    Gettysburg Campground

    Best tent camping site in Gettysburg

    campground was pretty crowded, but the tent sites were secluded and well kept. staff was extremely helpful. close to the battleground and all attractions.

  • Brian V.
    Camper-submitted photo from North Fork Resort
    Apr. 30, 2019

    North Fork Resort

    Expensive

    Stopped here for a tent site. And the cost was almost $60 a night. They do offer discounts for some associations but I wasn’t a member of any.

  • Maggie A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders
    May. 5, 2017

    Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders

    River Front Camping

    This campground has an abundance of things to do. The campground offers adventures like rafting, biking, tubing and zip lining to name a few. 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 (If you’re facing the river then the trail is to the right of the campground with a sign reading that you have entered Harper’s Ferry National Park. The trail is about 1.5 miles one way). From there you can grab a bite, visit the history of Harper's Ferry or continue exploring more hiking trails. There are train tracks behind the campground with 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. Bathroom and showers located nearby. You’re not allowed to park at the tent sites but most of the tent sites allow you to drop all your camping gear off and then park in a designated area. Between the tent sites being close together and the campground being part of zip lining/rafting courses there’s not a ton of privacy (especially during the weekend). Overall, it's a great adventurous spot!

  • d
    Camper-submitted photo from Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA
    Jun. 3, 2021

    Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA

    Memorial weekend

    Good tent site clean the staff was on top of collecting garbage. Had a few activities. Definitely need my bike next time cool rocks there to play on.

  • Nick S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cowans Gap State Park Campground
    Jun. 10, 2018

    Cowans Gap State Park Campground

    Fantastic weekends here

    This is a great place for a long weekend away. The tent sites are nice and they have a number of dog friendly sites. Fun beach area, hikes and fishing.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Crows Nest Campground
    May. 4, 2020

    Crows Nest Campground

    I’d skip it

    Hodgepodge mix of tent sites and long term motor homes on a creek which is nice . Owner is strange and will yell at clients blaming them of chopping down trees when they haven’t or other false claims.

  • Patraic E.
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Bennett Campground
    Aug. 5, 2021

    Little Bennett Campground

    Good get away.

    Went here during the week and the tent sites where pretty empty. The facilities are well kept. My only complaint is I could here the traffic from the highway on the A loop. Otherwise my stay was quiet and pleasant.

  • Marissa S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Fort Campground
    Apr. 23, 2022

    Little Fort Campground

    Nice free spot

    Hesitant to post a review for the simple fact that I don’t want more people to come across it 😂 it’s a great free spot to camp! There is an atv trail - so you will hear noise. But everyone is respectful and it’s quiet at night. Sites are decent size for tent camping. Dog friendly.


Guide to Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Tent camping near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park in Maryland offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy a scenic stay at Antietam Creek Campground, where you can relax by the river and engage with fellow campers along the multi-use trail.
  • Experience the breathtaking views at Annapolis Rock Campground, just a short hike from the Appalachian Trail, perfect for those looking to combine hiking with camping.
  • Explore the historic Paw Paw Tunnel while camping at Paw Paw Tunnel Campground, where you can enjoy both the natural surroundings and the fascinating engineering of the canal.

Tips for tent camping near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

  • Be prepared for a bit of a trek at Dahlgren Backpacker Campground, as it’s designed for multi-day backpackers and offers a large grassy area for pitching tents.
  • If you prefer a quieter experience, consider the secluded Horseshoe Bend Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite, which provides a peaceful spot along the river with basic amenities.
  • For a more social atmosphere, Jordan Junction offers essential facilities and easy access to the Potomac River for a refreshing swim.

Unique features of campgrounds in the area

  • Mulehalla stands out with its spacious sites and glamping options, making it a great choice for families looking for a mix of comfort and outdoor adventure.
  • At Washington Monument State Park Campground, you can enjoy a first-come, first-served experience with basic amenities and a short walk to fresh water.
  • Gathland State Park Campground offers a rustic setting with fireplaces and benches, perfect for those who appreciate a more traditional camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park is Antietam Creek Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park with a 3.8-star rating from 11 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 34 tent camping locations near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.