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

Potomac Forks Hiker-biker Campsite

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations. Water is turned off from mid-November through mid-April. Limited to one-night stays.

About

Potomac Forks Hiker-Biker Campsite is situated at mile 164.8 along the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal towpath in Allegany County, Maryland. This primitive camping area is designed for hikers, bikers, and equestrians traveling the towpath, offering free overnight camping on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations required. The site is limited to one-night stays to accommodate the transient nature of towpath travelers. The campsite provides basic amenities including a chemical toilet available year-round, a picnic table, and a grill for cooking. Non-potable water is available seasonally from mid-April through mid-November, but campers must filter, chemically treat, or boil the water before consumption. During winter months, water is turned off. Fires are restricted to the provided grills and fire rings, or portable grills positioned off the ground, with all coals requiring proper extinguishment and removal from the park. As part of the C&O Canal National Historical Park's network of hiker-biker campsites spaced approximately every 5 to 7 miles along the towpath, Potomac Forks serves as a convenient stopover for multi-day towpath journeys. The site is walk-in and tent-only, with no hookups, showers, or potable water. Campers should come prepared with their own water supply, especially during the winter months, and practice Leave No Trace principles.

Directions

The Potomac Forks Hiker-Biker Campsite is located at mile 164.8 along the C&O Canal towpath. Access is primarily via the towpath, suitable for hikers and bikers.

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