Turtle Run Hiker-biker Campsite
Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations. Water is turned off from mid-November to mid-April. One night maximum 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
Turtle Run Hiker-Biker Campsite is part of a network of primitive campsites spaced approximately every 5-7 miles along the 184.5-mile Chesapeake and Ohio Canal towpath. Located at Mile 34.4 near Poolesville, Maryland, this remote site provides a no-frills overnight option for hikers, cyclists, and equestrians traveling the historic canal corridor. The campsite operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations required or accepted, and there is no fee for use. The site includes basic amenities: a chemical toilet available year-round, a picnic table, and a grill for cooking. From mid-April through mid-November, a water pump provides non-potable water that must be properly treated before consumption through filtering, chemical treatment, or boiling. Water service is shut off during winter months from mid-November to mid-April. Campers should be prepared with their own water supply during the off-season. Fires are restricted to the provided grill or portable grills positioned off the ground, and firewood may be collected from dead material on the ground for use at the campsite only. The campsite is situated in close proximity to the Potomac River and may be subject to flooding after heavy rains. Overnight stays are limited to one night to ensure availability for through-travelers. The site is not ADA accessible and can only be reached by non-motorized travel along the towpath. This primitive camping experience offers solitude and a connection to the natural and historical landscapes of the C&O Canal corridor.
Directions
Located at Mile 34.4 on the C&O Canal towpath near Poolesville, Maryland. Accessible only by foot, bicycle, or horseback along the towpath.
Nearby Campgrounds
- Marble Quarry Hiker-biker Campsite 3.0mi
- Chisel Branch Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite 3.4mi
- Indian Flats Hiker-biker Campsite 7.1mi
- Calico Rocks Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite 9.2mi
- Horsepen Branch Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite 7.9mi
- Bald Eagle Island Hiker-biker Campsite 11mi
- Hunts Campground 15mi
- Swains Lock Hiker-biker Campsite 16mi
- Huckleberry Hill Hiker-biker Campsite 19mi
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| 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 | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Photos
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