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

Leopards Mill Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite

Open — Open year-round, first-come first-served. Water pump is turned off from mid-November through mid-April. Campers must bring their own water during winter months. Limited to one night per site per trip.

About

Leopards Mill Hiker-Biker Campsite is a primitive overnight site positioned at mile 129.9 of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal towpath in Washington County, Maryland. Part of a network of hiker-biker campsites spaced approximately every 5-7 miles along the historic canal, this location serves through-hikers and cyclists exploring the 184.5-mile towpath between Georgetown and Cumberland. The campsite operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations or fees required. Stays are limited to one night per site per trip, with capacity for up to 8 people and 2 tents. Basic amenities include a chemical toilet available year-round, a picnic table, and a grill. A hand pump provides non-potable water from mid-April through mid-November; campers must filter, chemically treat, or boil this water before use. During winter months, no water is available on-site. Located in close proximity to the Potomac River, the site is subject to flooding after heavy rains. There is no vehicle access to this campsite. Fires are restricted to the provided grill or portable grills positioned off the ground. Firewood may be collected from dead material on the ground for use at the campground only.

Directions

Located at mile 129.9 on the C&O Canal towpath near Hancock. Access is by foot or bicycle only via the towpath. No vehicle access available.

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