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

White Rock Hiker-biker Campsite

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations. Limited to one night stays. Non-potable water available but must be filtered or treated before use.

About

White Rock Hiker-biker Campsite is one of 31 primitive campsites positioned along the C&O Canal towpath, accessible only by foot, bicycle, or horseback. Located at mile 126.4 near Hancock, Maryland, this free campsite operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations required or accepted. The site accommodates up to 2 tents and 8 people maximum for overnight stays limited to one night. Basic amenities include a chemical toilet (available year-round), picnic table, and grill. Non-potable water is available on-site but must be filtered, chemically treated, or boiled before use for drinking or cooking. Fires are restricted to the provided grill or to portable grills positioned off the ground. Firewood may be collected from dead material on the ground for use in the campground only and cannot be removed from the site. The campsite is not ADA accessible. The location is in close proximity to the Potomac River and subject to flooding after heavy rains. Campers should be prepared for primitive conditions with no cell phone reception, showers, or potable water. This campsite serves as a convenient stopover for through-hikers and cyclists traveling the C&O Canal towpath.

Directions

Located at mile 126.4 on the C&O Canal towpath near Hancock, Maryland. From Hancock, follow MD 144 west and turn left at Locher Road. Access is by foot, bicycle, or horseback only from the towpath.

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