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.
Special Weather Statement issued April 12 at 1:43PM EDT by NWS Baltimore MD/Washington DC
The combination of 10 hour fuel moistures around 8 to 10 percent relative humidities around 30 to 39 percent, and wind gusts around 20 to 25 mph will lead to an increased risk for the rapid spread of wildfires on Monday. Residents and visitors are urged to properly dispose of cigarette butts, matches, and any other flammable items in appropriate containers. Additionally, exercise caution if operating any equipment that could create sparks and keep vehicles off of dry grass. Most dry grasses, dead leaves, and other tree litter could easily ignite and spread fire quickly. Lastly, remember to obey local burn bans. For more information about wildfire danger, burn restrictions, and wildfire prevention and education, please visit your state forestry or environmental protection website. For West Virginia, visit www.wvforestry.com For Maryland, visit dnr.maryland.gov For Virginia, visit dof.virginia.gov
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
- Chisel Branch Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite 4.6mi
- Turtle Run Hiker-biker Campsite 7.9mi
- Marble Quarry Hiker-biker Campsite 9.1mi
- Swains Lock Hiker-biker Campsite 8.7mi
- Indian Flats Hiker-biker Campsite 12mi
- Marsden Tract Group Campsite 12mi
- Carderock Recreation Area Pavilion 13mi
- Calico Rocks Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite 16mi
- Bald Eagle Island Hiker-biker Campsite 18mi
Location
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| choh_information@nps.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (301) 739-4200 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Photos
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