Established Camping
Paw Paw Tunnel Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Paw Paw Tunnel Campground, near the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, is a straightforward spot for tent camping that offers a unique blend of nature and history. With its proximity to the historic Paw Paw Tunnel, this campground is perfect for those looking to explore the scenic towpath and enjoy the views of the Potomac River.
The campground features basic amenities, including picnic tables and fire rings, making it a solid choice for a simple camping experience. Visitors have noted the open grassy areas surrounded by deciduous forest, which provide a nice backdrop for your outdoor adventures. One camper mentioned, “Nice view of the Potomac and mountains,” highlighting the picturesque setting.
While the facilities are basic, with portable toilets and no showers, the campground is a great launching point for hiking and biking. The tunnel itself is a popular attraction, and many campers enjoy the cool respite it offers on hot days. Just remember to bring a flashlight for your journey through the mile-long tunnel!
Though some campers pointed out that the sites can feel a bit close together, the overall atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. Whether you're here for a quick overnight trip or a longer stay, Paw Paw Tunnel Campground offers a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the rich history of the area.
Description
National Park Service
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
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.
Facilities
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.
Location
Paw Paw Tunnel Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is located in Maryland
Directions
From Cumberland, MD: Follow MD-51 S/E Industrial Road for approximately 24 miles. Campground will be directly off 51, on the left side of the road.
Coordinates
39.5415806 N
78.4596889 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiGood
- VerizonGood
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 45 min from Winchester
- 1 hr 1 min from Hagerstown
- 1 hr 19 min from Chambersburg
- 1 hr 43 min from Johnstown
