Carderock Recreation Area Pavilion

About

The Carderock Recreation Area Pavilion is a large covered day-use picnic shelter located within the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park in Montgomery County, Maryland. This is not a campground; overnight camping is not permitted. The facility is designed for group gatherings and events during daylight hours only. The pavilion is open on three sides and can accommodate up to 200 people. Amenities include picnic tables, two large outdoor grills, an indoor fireplace, and four 110-volt electrical outlets. Portable restrooms are available, though permanent flush facilities are currently closed. The recreation area also features a softball field, volleyball and relay game areas, and horseshoe pits. The area provides access to popular hiking trails, including the challenging Billy Goat Trail sections A, B, and C. Fishing is permitted in both the C&O Canal and the Potomac River with a valid Maryland license (Virginia licenses accepted for Potomac River only).

Directions

From I-495 in Maryland: Take Exit 41 toward Carderock/Great Falls. Merge onto Clara Barton Parkway and continue 1 mile to the Carderock exit. At the stop sign, turn left to cross over Clara Barton Parkway. At the second stop sign, turn left for parking lot A or right for parking lot B and restrooms. The pavilion is located between the two parking lots.