Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite

4.88

11 reviews

Featured in:Mountain Camping Maryland Forest Camping Maryland

Quick Facts

400 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

Potable water is tur...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

400 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

Potable water is tur...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

No fee or reservation required for the Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (HBO) Campsite.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(301) 739-4200CHOH_information@nps.gov

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What Campers Say

4.88

Top-Rated

Based on 11 reviews

9 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanlocationwater

"User reviews generally praise the campsite for its simplicity and utility as a stopover along the C&O Canal Towpath. However, there are noted limitations such as poor cell phone service and the seasonality of potable water availability."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite

39.4929, -77.7926

Driving directionsBig Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (HBO) Campsite directions and information are available at https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/camping.htm.

The campsite is accessible from the C&O Canal towpath. No vehicles are permitted on the towpath, and access is by foot or bike only.

Best Time to Camp at Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite

Experience the full spectrum of Mid-Atlantic seasons at Big Woods, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Summer brings warm days perfect for evening campfires, while autumn transforms the canopy into a brilliant tapestry of golds and crimsons. Winter adventurers will find crisp air and peaceful solitude, though should note that potable water facilities hibernate from mid-November through mid-April. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and birdsong. Whatever the season, savvy campers come prepared with layers and weather-appropriate gear to fully embrace nature's changing moods.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer offers warm days and campfire opportunities; water usually available.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Autumn foliage and mild weather make the towpath especially appealing.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Spring is variable; potable water may be unavailable until mid-April.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Potable water is turned off mid-Nov to mid-April; site is less user-friendly in winter.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Potable water is turned off from mid-November to mid-April each year.
Current Alerts: Potable water is unavailable from mid-November to mid-April. Campers need to plan accordingly.

About Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite

Nestled at Mile 82.7 along the historic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal towpath, Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight Campsite serves as a welcome respite for adventurous souls traversing this storied waterway. This thoughtfully designed campground caters exclusively to hikers and cyclists exploring the canal's scenic route, offering essential amenities in a pristine natural setting. Best of all, this hidden gem comes with no price tag and no reservation hassles—simply arrive, set up camp, and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.

The Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight Campsite is a primitive, hike-in and bike-in camping area designed for transient use. It is part of a network of hiker-biker sites located along the C&O Canal Towpath, spaced approximately 5-7 miles apart for convenience.

Historical SignificanceYour tent sits on grounds steeped in American history, where mule-drawn boats once carried coal and goods along this vital 19th-century transportation artery. As part of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Big Woods connects modern adventurers to the dreams and determination of canal builders who transformed the region's economy and landscape. Every mile of towpath beneath your feet echoes with stories of lock keepers, boat captains, and the communities that flourished along these waters during America's canal era.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Mid-Atlantic seasons at Big Woods, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Summer brings warm days perfect for evening campfires, while autumn transforms the canopy into a brilliant tapestry of golds and crimsons. Winter adventurers will find crisp air and peaceful solitude, though should note that potable water facilities hibernate from mid-November through mid-April. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and birdsong. Whatever the season, savvy campers come prepared with layers and weather-appropriate gear to fully embrace nature's changing moods.

ElevationFollowing the gentle contours of the river valley, Big Woods occupies the characteristic low-lying terrain of the C&O Canal corridor. This modest elevation creates a microclimate where morning mists often drift across the water, and the surrounding ridges frame distant views. The level ground makes for comfortable camping and easy access to the towpath, perfect for cyclists maintaining their rhythm or hikers seeking a restful night between longer stretches.

Natural Features and SceneryWake to the soft light filtering through a mature forest canopy at Big Woods, where towering trees create a natural cathedral above your campsite. The parallel lines of the historic canal and towpath guide your eye through this green corridor, while the surrounding woodland harbors deer, foxes, and countless bird species that provide nature's soundtrack. This rustic sanctuary offers an authentic backcountry experience—no manicured lawns here, just the raw beauty of the Potomac River valley ecosystem embracing weary travelers with its timeless charm.

Geological RegionBig Woods rests within the embrace of the greater Appalachian region, where ancient mountains have weathered into rolling hills and fertile valleys. The campsite showcases the region's signature blend of deciduous forests and waterways, carved over millennia by the persistent flow of the Potomac River. This geological tapestry creates diverse habitats and scenic vistas, from rocky outcroppings to alluvial bottomlands, offering campers a front-row seat to millions of years of Earth's sculptural artistry.

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Stay is limited to one night.

Groups

No group camping facilities are available at this site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutSites include a chemical toilet, picnic table, grill, and drinking water. No vehicles are allowed, maintaining the site for hiker and biker use.

Reservation PlatformsNot applicable as reservations are not required.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations required.

Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as reservations are not required.

AccessibilityThe campground offers basic amenities with no detailed accessibility features described in the source material.

Site SizeSites are designed for hike-in and bike-in campers, suitable for single overnight stays.

PrivacySites are clustered along the towpath and may offer limited privacy due to proximity.

Recommended SitesCampers should choose sites based on proximity to amenities like chemical toilets and water pumps.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Activities at Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight Campsite are centered around its natural setting along the towpath, making it suitable for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The simplicity of the site aligns with its purpose as a stopover for those exploring the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal area.

HikingThe campsite is located along the C&O Canal Towpath, which offers hiking opportunities for a range of skill levels.

BikingThe campsite caters specifically to bikers using the C&O Canal Towpath, offering a convenient stopover point.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWater may not always be potable; water is treated with iodine and campers are advised to bring purification tablets. Wildlife may be present, and weather conditions can change quickly.

Active AlertsPotable water is unavailable from mid-November to mid-April. Campers need to plan accordingly.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted only in designated grills or fire rings. Fires should be completely extinguished after use.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned.

Trash & RecyclingThis campground operates as part of a 'Trash-Free Park,' requiring visitors to carry out all trash and waste.

Water FeaturesDrinking water is available at the campsite, but it is treated with iodine and requires purification tablets. The canal runs parallel to the campsite, providing a unique water feature.

Weather at Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite

Reviews

4.9

11 reviews

Top-Rated

Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews generally praise the campsite for its simplicity and utility as a stopover along the C&O Canal Towpath. However, there are noted limitations such as poor cell phone service and the seasonality of potable water availability.

Review Summaries

Based on 11 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers appreciate the campsite's convenient location along the C&O Canal Towpath. The chemical toilet and potable water (when available) are valued amenities, and the campsite's overall...

Based on 11 reviews

Common Concerns

The primary complaints include limited cell phone service, as noted by a user: "Cell phone service is poor at best." Additionally, the need for water purification tablets and the seasonal...

Based on 11 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to bring water purification tablets and a backup water supply, especially between mid-November and mid-April when potable water is unavailable. Planning for poor cell service is...

Based on 11 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campsite is less user-friendly in winter due to the seasonal shutdown of potable water. Warm weather seasons are more favorable for campers.

Based on 11 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Another great campsite on the C&O. It's one of my favorites. The water pump is about ¼ mile down from the campsite. Also note that cell phone service is poor at best." - Matt Stevenson 2. "Nice...

Based on 11 reviews