Maryland / Frederick County / Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Bald Eagle Island Hiker-biker Campsite

Open — Open year-round, first-come first-served with no reservations. Water is turned off from mid-November to mid-April. One-night maximum stay.

About

Bald Eagle Island Hiker-Biker Campsite sits at mile 50.3 along the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal towpath, providing free primitive camping for hikers and cyclists exploring the 184.5-mile trail. This walk-in or bike-in only site is one of approximately 30 hiker-biker campsites spaced every 5-7 miles along the canal. The campsite is located near the Potomac River and parallels active CSX railroad tracks, so campers should expect train noise throughout the night. The site includes basic amenities: a portable chemical toilet available year-round, a picnic table, and a grill. Non-potable water is available seasonally from a hand pump, but it is turned off from mid-November through mid-April and must be filtered, chemically treated, or boiled before use. Campers are limited to one consecutive night at any hiker-biker site and must carry in all gear and supplies. The site can be accessed from vehicle parking approximately 0.5 miles away at Lander (mile 50.8). The flat, level towpath makes this an excellent stop for bicycle tourists and backpackers, though the site's proximity to the river means it is subject to flooding after heavy rainfall. Firewood may be collected from dead material on the ground for use at the campsite only, and fires must be contained in the provided grill.

Directions

Located at mile 50.3 on the C&O Canal towpath near Lander, MD. Access via towpath only by foot or bicycle. Nearest vehicle parking is 0.5 miles away at Lander (mile 50.8).

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