Swains Lock Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Highly recommended, easy getaway. Crowded peak season, but shoulder seasons are often empty.

Went on a Friday and all the overnight campsites (5) were taken :o my gf and I decided to risk it and camp on one of the 3 day use sites. A couple other bikers and people who also came late stayed on the day use sites and some others camped along the grass area. When we started packing up to leave at 8am the parking lot was pretty much filled.

Last night I camped at this location. I found a limited pair of trees to suspend my hammock from. There are 5 Over Night camp sites and 1 daily use location.

Yes, it was Delightful to see the sun set over the Potomac and rise the next morning over the opposite shore. The fellow campers were pleasant to share the other sites with. I was happy to share my camp saw with my fellow traveler to cut wood for the fire.

Please note this is a pack out your own garbage camp site. There are NOT garbage cans and other less than courteous campers left behind some trash. Please also be aware of the Canadian Geese their droppings and EVERY WHERE (it is the wilderness). The wild Turkeys on the Virginia shore line, were pleasant to wake up to. There is NO hook ups (water or electric) .

The early morning was particularly cold due to Winter sticking around until LATE APRIL. It was only a few degrees above freezing (during the night/morning) and being in a hammock………

If you do choose this location to camp please, PACK OUT YOUR TRASH.