How much does camping cost at Antietam Creek Campsite?

Camping fees at Antietam Creek Campsite range from $10/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Antietam Creek Campsite first-come first-served or reservation?

Antietam Creek Campsite accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Antietam Creek Campsite before I book?

Yes! Antietam Creek Campsite has 8 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Antietam Creek Campsite?

Antietam Creek Campsite is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Antietam Creek Campsite?

Antietam Creek Campsite does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Antietam Creek Campsite have?

Antietam Creek Campsite has 20 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Antietam Creek Campsite?

Yes, pets are allowed at Antietam Creek Campsite. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Antietam Creek Campsite?

Antietam Creek Campsite offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Antietam Creek Campsite?

Popular activities at Antietam Creek Campsite include Hiking, Fishing, Biking. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Antietam Creek Campsite

Q: Can I have a campfire at Antietam Creek Campsite?

Fire policies at Antietam Creek Campsite: Fires are permitted only in established fire rings. Please ensure that your fire is extinguished completely each time you leave the area. The cutting or defacing of any live growth is strictly prohibited. Kiln fired or dried wood may be brought into the park. Fallen dead timber in the park may be used for on-site firewood. Bring handsaws to cut fallen wood. Chainsaws are prohibited. Park Rangers reserve the right to ban all fires during periods of drought.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.10

267 reviews

Fishing

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

308 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Open April 15 - Dece...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

308 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Open April 15 - Dece...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Antietam Creek Campsite

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $10.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Campground Map

Antietam Creek Campsite

39.4191, -77.7465

Nearby places

Shepherdstown, WV (4 miles)

Harpers Ferry, WV (9 miles)

Hagerstown, MD (12 miles)

Charlestown, WV (15 miles)

Driving directionsFrom Hagerstown MD: Take MD-65 to Sharpsburg. Make a right on Main St. then left on Harpers Ferry Road for a few miles. Before you cross the Antietam Creek bridge, make a right on Canal Rd. Campsites are across the canal and towpath from Canal Rd. From West Virginia: Take WV-480 through Shepherdstown across the Potomac River. Make the first right after the bridge on Canal Rd. Follow Canal Rd a few miles until you see the campsites on your right before Antietam Creek.

Weather at Antietam Creek Campsite

Current alerts(8)

Carry Out Trash. The park is a 'Trash Free Park' and trashcans are not provided. Trash must be picked up and the area left in a clean condition before the group departs.
Check-in and Check-out. Check-in time is 1:00 p.m. EST and check-out time is 12:00 noon ET.
Emergencies. If someone is "squatting" in your campsite OR for emergencies, please call the National Capital Region Communications Center at 1-866-677-6677.
No Alcohol or Drugs. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited. Marijuana is illegal on federal property.

Best Time to Camp at Antietam Creek Campsite

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of comfortable weather, vivid riverside foliage, and quieter trails — daytime highs typically range from the mid-40s to mid-60s°F with crisp, cool mornings ideal for paddling and photography. Leaf color peaks in late October along the Potomac and the C&O Canal towpath, making hiking and biking especially rewarding, while fishing and wildlife viewing remain productive as animals prepare for winter. Crowds are lower than summer (weekends near historic sites still:b Peak months: October, September, May, April Avoid: January, February, March

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall delivers best conditions with crisp days and peak leaf color along Potomac and towpath.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open April 15 - December 31.

About Antietam Creek Campsite

Antietam Creek Campsite sits along the C&O Canal towpath near Sharpsburg, Maryland, operated by the National Park Service as a primitive hike/bike-in stop for towpath travelers and paddlers. The small campground offers vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings in a wooded riverside setting where the Potomac flows past Civil War battlefields. Campers use it as a base for exploring the canal trail, fishing the river, and visiting nearby Antietam National Battlefield.

Antietam Creek Campground is designed for primitive tent camping only. It offers 20 single campsites suitable for individuals, families, or small groups. No RV or glamping options are available.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of comfortable weather, vivid riverside foliage, and quieter trails — daytime highs typically range from the mid-40s to mid-60s°F with crisp, cool mornings ideal for paddling and photography. Leaf color peaks in late October along the Potomac and the C&O Canal towpath, making hiking and biking especially rewarding, while fishing and wildlife viewing remain productive as animals prepare for winter. Crowds are lower than summer (weekends near historic sites still:b Peak months: October, September, May, April Avoid: January, February, March

Elevation308 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a wooded corridor between the C&O Canal and the Potomac River at 308 feet elevation. Sycamores and other riverine forest provide shade over the sites. Morning fog is common along the water. Antietam Creek joins the Potomac here, creating a confluence visible from some sites. The towpath runs directly through camp, offering flat terrain for walking or biking along the canal's historic route.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or built accommodations like cabins are available; the campground is strictly for tent camping.

Programs & ActivitiesNo scheduled programs are offered, but proximity to Antietam Battlefield and Harpers Ferry provides ample opportunities for self-guided historical exploration.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit and a maximum of 30 nights per year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each site accommodates up to eight campers.

Groups

There are no designated group camping areas
all sites are single and accommodate a maximum of 8 people.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, including online and through their app.

AccessibilityThe campground is not well-suited for individuals with mobility challenges. Parking is located on the road, and all campsites must be accessed by foot via a pedestrian bridge. Some paths to the sites and the river are steep, requiring careful navigation.

Site SizeSites are generally considered spacious, capable of accommodating up to two tents comfortably. Site #12, for instance, is noted as large and shaded.

PrivacyPrivacy is limited due to the open layout of the sites, which lack foliage or natural barriers. Users often report close proximity to neighboring sites, with sound and light easily traveling between them.

Total Campsites20 campsites

Recommended SitesSite #9 is close to the bridge for easier access; site #20 offers privacy and is the furthest from other sites; sites #7 and #8 provide good river views.

Best CampsitesSites #7, #8, and #19 are closest to amenities and offer river views. Site #12 is large and shaded, with room for two tents comfortably. Sites closer to the parking area along the road tend to have better cell reception.

Need help booking Antietam Creek Campsite?

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Recreation.gov Guide

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Amenities available

The Antietam Creek Campground offers a range of basic amenities designed for tent camping. Campers can expect facilities such as picnic tables, fire rings with grills, and protected pit toilets. A second set of chemical toilets is located down the towpath. Potable water is available seasonally, with manual pumps located along the towpath, though water availability during winter may be inconsistent. No vehicular access is permitted on the towpath, requiring campers to park along Canal Road and carry their gear to the sites. The campground does not provide electricity, showers, or trash cans, adhering to a 'Leave No Trace' policy. Frequent issues with water availability and toilet maintenance have been noted in user reviews, emphasizing the need for campers to bring their own supplies and prepare for potential inconveniences.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

The Antietam Creek Campground provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The nearby Potomac River and C&O Canal Towpath offer scenic views and activities for nature enthusiasts. Historical sites like Antietam Battlefield and Harpers Ferry are a short drive away, enriching the experience with cultural and educational value. Seasonal variations can influence activities, particularly water sports and hiking conditions.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are unavailable at the campground. Restroom facilities consist of pit toilets and chemical toilets, which are sometimes described as poorly maintained and lacking essential supplies like toilet paper.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFires are permitted only in established fire rings. Please ensure that your fire is extinguished completely each time you leave the area. The cutting or defacing of any live growth is strictly prohibited. Kiln fired or dried wood may be brought into the park. Fallen dead timber in the park may be used for on-site firewood. Bring handsaws to cut fallen wood. Chainsaws are prohibited. Park Rangers reserve the right to ban all fires during periods of drought.

Trash & RecyclingThe campground follows a 'Trash Free Park' policy, meaning trash cans or recycling bins are not provided. Campers are required to pack out all trash and leave the area clean.

Cell CoverageCell phone service at the campground is inconsistent. Specific reviews mention poor reception for AT&T users, while others noted better reception near the parking area along the road.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.1

267 reviews

Satisfactory

Antietam Creek Campsite is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

The Antietam Creek Campground receives a mixed overall sentiment. While many campers appreciate the scenic location along the Potomac River, the proximity to the C&O Towpath, and the historical significance of nearby areas, several issues are frequently noted. Common complaints include noise from neighboring sites due to lack of privacy, inconsistent water availability, and poorly maintained restroom facilities. Highlights include the friendly and helpful campsite host, access to outdoor activities, and the peaceful natural setting.

Review Summaries

Based on 267 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 267 reviews.

Site #20Loved
Site #20 is highly praised for its privacy and easy access to the Potomac.
Site #7Mentioned
Site #7 and #8 are noted for their proximity to the footbridge, simplifying gear transportation.
site #13Issues noted
Complaints about site #13 include insufficient shade and a steep path to the river.

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the natural beauty of the Potomac River, spacious campsites, and proximity to historical sites. Campers appreciate the peaceful setting, opportunities for hiking, biking, and...

Based on 267 reviews

Common Concerns

Campers frequently mention issues such as the lack of privacy, noisy neighbors, poorly maintained bathrooms, and insufficient water availability. Other concerns include steep access paths to the...

Based on 267 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing a wagon to transport gear due to the walk-in sites, packing extra water and toilet supplies, and preparing for bugs and steep terrain. Early reservations are suggested for...

Based on 267 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter camping is rated as quieter and more peaceful but comes with challenges like reduced water access. Summer tends to be crowded, with complaints about noisy neighbors and insects. Spring and...

Based on 267 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The serenity experienced along the Potomac River is phenomenal." "Be prepared to pack out all of your trash since there are no cans provided." "Our campsite was beautiful, but there was a lot of...

Based on 267 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground is not ideal for those with mobility challenges due to the need to walk over a bridge and carry gear. Steep paths to some sites and the river further limit accessibility.

Based on 267 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some campers report issues with unleashed pets causing disturbances.

Based on 267 reviews

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Go if

You're biking or hiking the C&O Canal towpath and want a simple overnight stop near Antietam battlefield.

Skip if

You need vehicle access to your site or want to avoid train noise from the nearby rail line.

Nearby Campgrounds

Less Visited

4.2

(50)

Rohrbach Group Campground

18316 Burnside Bridge Road, Sharpsburg, MD 21782

Rohrbach Group Campground sits on the grounds of Antietam National Battlefield near Sharpsburg, offering primitive walk-in sites for organized groups exploring one of the Civil War's most significant landscapes. Operated by the National Park Service, the campground provides a base for hiking battlefield trails and biking the surrounding countryside. Sites require hauling gear uphill from parking, and no potable water is available on-site.