Marsden Tract Group Campsite

About

Marsden Tract Group Campground provides an accessible camping experience just 14 miles from downtown Washington, D.C., making it ideal for scout troops and other groups looking to explore the nation's capital while enjoying the outdoors. Located at Mile 11.5 on the historic C&O Canal Towpath between Carderock Recreation Area and Anglers Inn, the campground is walk-in only with no vehicle access on the towpath. The six group campsites are set in the woods between the Canal and the Potomac River. Each site accommodates up to 30 campers and includes a picnic table and fire ring. Portable toilets are located near Campsite 1, and seasonal potable water is available from a hand pump a short walk up the towpath and across the footbridge toward MacArthur Blvd. The most popular activity for campers is hiking the three sections of the Billy Goat Trail, one of the most challenging and scenic rock scrambles on the East Coast. The campground is also just south of the Great Falls of the Potomac and Mather Gorge, offering stunning views of the river's power. Fishing is permitted in both the Canal and the Potomac with appropriate licenses.

Directions

Park at Carderock Recreation Area or the gravel lots across from Anglers Inn Restaurant. From the Carderock parking lot, take the short walking path to the canal, turn upstream (toward Great Falls), and hike approximately half a mile on the towpath to the campground. No vehicle traffic is allowed on the towpath.