Purslane Run Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite

Open — Open year-round, first-come first-served with no reservations. Water is turned off mid-November through mid-April. One-night stay limit per trip.

About

Purslane Run Hiker-Biker Campsite is located at mile 156.9 along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal towpath, part of a network of approximately 31 primitive campsites spaced roughly every 5 to 7 miles along the 184.5-mile canal corridor. This free, walk-in site serves hikers, bikers, and equestrians traveling the historic towpath through western Maryland's scenic Potomac River valley. The campsite provides basic amenities including a portable chemical toilet, picnic table, and grill. Fires are restricted to the provided grill, and firewood may be collected on-site but cannot be brought in from outside the park. The site operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations required or accepted. Overnight stays are limited to one night per trip to accommodate the through-travel nature of the towpath. Water is available seasonally from mid-April through mid-November, but is non-potable and must be filtered, chemically treated, or boiled before use. The campsite is subject to periodic flooding after heavy rains due to its proximity to the Potomac River. This primitive site offers an authentic backcountry experience along one of America's most historic canal corridors.

Directions

Located at mile 156.9 along the C&O Canal Towpath near Oldtown, MD. Accessible via the towpath; no direct vehicle access.

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