Maryland / Montgomery County / Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park / Montgomery County Agricultural Reserve

Horsepen Branch Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite

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

About

Horsepen Branch Hiker-Biker Overnight Campsite sits at mile 26.1 along the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal towpath, part of the network of primitive campsites spaced approximately every 5-7 miles for through-hikers and bikers. This free, walk-in site operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations required and a one-night stay limit. The campsite provides basic amenities including a chemical toilet available year-round, a picnic table, and a grill for cooking. Located near the Potomac River in Poolesville, the site is subject to flooding after heavy rains. Water is available at the site but is non-potable and not treated, requiring filtration, chemical treatment, or boiling before use. Water is shut off from mid-November to mid-April each year. Fires are restricted to the grill provided or portable grills positioned off the ground. Firewood may be collected from dead material on the ground for use at the campsite only. The site is not ADA accessible and offers no cell phone reception during winter months.

Directions

Located at mile 26.1 on the C&O Canal towpath near Poolesville. Access via towpath only on foot or bicycle.

Nearby Campgrounds