Camping opportunities along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park span 184.5 miles of towpath, with elevations ranging from near sea level at Georgetown to 605 feet at Cumberland. The park's varied terrain allows for both riverside camping and wooded retreats. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s while spring and fall offer cooler camping conditions in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
River activities: Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders offers multiple water experiences right from your campsite. "The campground cannot do anything about their location along the tracks, but they can control their response time to issues and the cleanliness of their bathrooms," notes a reviewer describing the riverfront setting. The campsite connects directly to tubing, zip lining, and kayaking services.
Historical exploration: Visit Fort Frederick State Park's colonial-era stone fort while camping nearby. "The fort is very cool, and exhibits are great," according to one camper. The park features interpretive programs during summer weekends when staff often dress in period attire.
Cycling access: Many campsites connect directly to the C&O Canal towpath trail system. "The Western Maryland Rail Trail runs rite along the campground so if you like bike riding, take advantage," mentions a McCoys Ferry reviewer. The trail offers 23 miles of paved biking surface parallel to portions of the canal towpath.
What campers like
Private water access: Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area provides secluded lake-front camping spots. "For me the two most difficult amenities to find at one campground is 1) secluded drive-up site 2) that is on a lake/river/etc. So because Sleep Creek has many sites with both, we will continue to go back," writes one visitor. Sites at the wildlife management area require self-registration and cost $10 per night.
Well-maintained facilities: Greenbrier State Park Campground earns praise for its upkeep. "Arrived a little early and found the site ready and spotless. Decent sized sites included picnic table, fire ring, and 2 poles for hanging lanterns, garbage, whatever," notes one camper. The campground features four distinct camping loops with one specifically accepting dogs.
Tranquility: Despite train noise at some locations, many campsites provide peaceful settings. "We got here during Labor Day afternoon. Once boats and recreational craft were out of the water, quiet descended on the campground. River quiet next day, too," writes a McCoys Ferry camper about the weekday experience.
What you should know
Seasonal water conditions: Antietam Creek Campground experiences variable river levels throughout camping season. "The Potomac is mostly flat with some 'swirlies' for experienced paddlers. I also saw some people tubing," explains a camper. Water levels tend to be lower and more predictable in late summer.
Train proximity: Multiple campgrounds along the canal corridor sit near active rail lines. "The train came through multiple times and you WILL hear it," warns a McCoys Ferry reviewer. Earplugs are recommended for light sleepers at riverfront sites.
Walk-in requirements: Some campgrounds require carrying equipment from parking areas. "You have to park on the road and carry all your stuff across a bridge and down the path to your site. Could be a very far walk," explains an Antietam Creek visitor. Sites nearest the parking bridges fill quickly on weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Jellystone Park Williamsport offers extensive children's programming. "We recent went camping for the first time at Jellystone in Maryland. 5 of our 6 kids came with us, so we knew we needed to find a camping ground more geared kids. Jellystone was amazing in every way possible," shares one parent. The campground schedules daily activities during summer months.
Swimming options: Look for campsites with designated swimming areas during hot months. "Big, immaculately groomed tent pads... Clean bathrooms with free showers were close by," writes a Greenbrier State Park visitor, noting the lake beach available to campers.
Animal interactions: Some campgrounds feature farm animals for children to observe. "My kids were obsessed with the goats and the little mining table," mentions a visitor to Hagerstown/Antietam Battlefield KOA, highlighting attractions beyond the typical outdoor activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA requires careful site selection for larger rigs. "Heads up, big rig owners! Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site(#199) had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air," warns one RVer. Sites without patios often provide more level parking for longer vehicles.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have narrow access roads or low clearance entrances. "There is a low tunnel to get to the site. My promaster with 6" fan fit ok," notes a McCoys Ferry visitor. Most primitive campsites along the canal cannot accommodate RVs longer than 25 feet.
Limited hookups: Many canal-adjacent campsites offer no hookups. "No sewer. And one 50 amp site," explains a reviewer at Lazy A Campground. RVers should arrive with tanks empty and batteries charged when staying at historical park campgrounds.
