Fifteen Mile Creek Campsite

3.96

134 reviews

11710 MacArthur Blvd.

Fishing

Quick Facts

449 ft

Price

$10 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Open April 16 - Dece...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

449 ft

Price

$10 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Open April 16 - Dece...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Fifteen Mile Creek Campsite

$10.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees are $20 for standard non-electric sites during peak season (April 16 - November 15) and $10 during non-peak season (November 16 - December 31)....

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$40.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

3.96

Mixed Reviews

Based on 134 reviews

57 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsprivacycleanspacious

Some mention

noisetrain

"Reviews highlight the beautiful natural surroundings and convenient access to the Potomac River and C&O Canal Towpath. Common praises include the campground's peacefulness, scenic views, and suitability for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. However, frequent complaints involve the lack of privacy between campsites, noise from occasional late-night visitors, and limited amenities."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

11710 MacArthur Blvd.

Fifteen Mile Creek Campsite

11710 MacArthur Blvd.

Driving directionsFrom Hagerstown: Take I-70W to I-68 W. Take Exit 68 towards Little Orleans. Follow Orleans Rd for 4 miles. Make a left on High Germany Rd. and it will dead end at the campground. From Cumberland: Take I-68 east for 25 miles to exit 68 and then follow Orleans Road for 4 miles. Make a left on High Germany Rd and it will dead end in the park.

Access to the campground is via High Germany Road, which dead-ends at the campsite. RVs must specifically use High Germany Road due to a tunnel on Orleans Road that restricts larger vehicles. Seasonal conditions may affect accessibility, and winter camping advises bringing adequate supplies due to remote access.

Nearby places

Little Orleans (4 miles), Hancock (approx. 10 miles), Paw Paw, WV (approx. 15 miles)

Nearby supplies

Campground supplies may be available at Little Orleans Campground Campstore (approx. 1 mile)

additional supplies can be obtained in Hancock or Cumberland.

Best Time to Camp at Fifteen Mile Creek Campsite

Each season paints this riverside retreat in dramatically different hues. Spring arrives with wildflowers and mild temperatures perfect for hiking, while summer brings warm, humid days ideal for river activities and evening campfires. Autumn transforms the surrounding forest into a breathtaking canvas of gold, crimson, and amber - a photographer's paradise. Winter strips the landscape to its essence, offering crisp, quiet days for the hardy souls who appreciate solitude. Those venturing here in colder months should pack extra provisions, as snow and ice can temporarily cut off this peaceful haven from the outside world.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.5 / 5

Summer good for boating, fishing and biking but can be busy and noisy on peak weekends.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 22% in MD

Fall 'particularly recommended' for scenic beauty and foliage along the river and towpath.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring brings wildflowers and mild temps ideal for hiking and towpath rides.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed much of winter (open Apr 16–Dec 31); limited winter access.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 16 - November 15 (peak season).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open April 16 - December 31. Reservations are available on a 6-month rolling basis.

About Fifteen Mile Creek Campsite

Nestled at Mile 140 on the legendary C&O Canal Towpath, this intimate drive-in campground serves as a gateway to outdoor adventure along the Potomac River. Despite its modest size, this beloved spot draws adventurers year-round who come to cast lines into the river's flowing waters, paddle its gentle currents, and explore miles of scenic trails by foot or bike. The campground's strategic location makes it an ideal basecamp for those seeking to immerse themselves in the natural splendor of Western Maryland.

The campground offers primitive camping with limited facilities, catering primarily to tent campers, small RVs, and groups.

Historical SignificanceYour camping experience unfolds along one of America's most storied waterways - the C&O Canal Towpath, where mules once pulled cargo boats through 184.5 miles of American history. This transportation marvel, now preserved as a linear park, tells the tale of 19th-century commerce and engineering. Just beyond your tent flap lie the wild expanses of Green Ridge State Forest and Billmeyer Wildlife Management Area, where conservation efforts have protected thousands of acres for future generations to explore and cherish.

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints this riverside retreat in dramatically different hues. Spring arrives with wildflowers and mild temperatures perfect for hiking, while summer brings warm, humid days ideal for river activities and evening campfires. Autumn transforms the surrounding forest into a breathtaking canvas of gold, crimson, and amber - a photographer's paradise. Winter strips the landscape to its essence, offering crisp, quiet days for the hardy souls who appreciate solitude. Those venturing here in colder months should pack extra provisions, as snow and ice can temporarily cut off this peaceful haven from the outside world.

ElevationPerched gracefully above the Potomac River's flowing waters, the campground offers commanding vistas that reward early risers with misty morning panoramas and treat evening gatherers to spectacular sunsets. This elevated position not only provides stunning photo opportunities but also keeps campers comfortably above the river's occasional mood swings while maintaining easy access to waterside activities.

Natural Features and SceneryWhere Fifteen Mile Creek meets the mighty Potomac, nature has crafted a masterpiece of forest and water. Towering trees of the Appalachian hardwood forest create a living cathedral overhead, their canopy sheltering campers while framing glimpses of the river below. The surrounding Green Ridge State Forest extends the wilderness experience in every direction, offering 47,000 acres of ridge-and-valley terrain to explore. Morning mists rise from the water, afternoon light dances through the leaves, and autumn's grand finale transforms the entire landscape into nature's finest gallery exhibition.

Geological RegionDeep in the ancient folds of Western Maryland's Appalachian Mountains, this campground occupies a special place where mountain meets river. The confluence of Fifteen Mile Creek and the Potomac River has carved a diverse ecosystem through millennia, creating a rich tapestry of ridge-top forests, riverside meadows, and rocky outcrops. Green Ridge State Forest's dramatic terrain surrounds the area, showcasing the geological forces that shaped this region over millions of years. This unique position offers campers the rare opportunity to experience both mountain and river ecosystems from a single basecamp.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

1:00 PM ET

Check-out

12:00 PM ET

Stay Limit

Maximum 14 nights per visit
maximum 30 nights per year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 guests per single campsite
group site accommodates up to 30 people.

Groups

The group site accommodates up to 30 people and is separated from the main area by a short bridge. Vehicles must park in the adjacent lot, requiring campers to carry their gear to the site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutNine single campsites arranged in a loop; one large group site located across a bridge requiring a hike-in.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, via mobile app, or contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability; reservations are highly recommended as the campground often fills up on weekends.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations made up to 2 days before the reservation incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations for individual sites lose the first night's fee. Group site cancellations within 14 days also forfeit the first night's fee.

AccessibilityThe group site is separated from the main campground by a short walk across a bridge, and vehicles are not allowed directly at the group site. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities was not explicitly mentioned in the sources.

Site SizeSites are described as drive-in and large enough to park vehicles such as small fifth wheels or RVs with a 20 ft. maximum. The group site can accommodate up to 30 people, while single sites accommodate up to 8 people.

PrivacyPrivacy is limited at this campground as several reviews mention that campsites are close together. "Tiny, tiny loop with 9 sites very close together," one reviewer stated. Another noted, "Sites don’t have privacy, no trees between.

Total Campsites10 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites 6-9 for Potomac River views; site 5 for shade and river access. Avoid site 7 if shade is a priority.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Fifteen Mile Creek Campground provides a variety of outdoor recreational activities, focusing on its natural surroundings and proximity to the Potomac River and C&O Canal Towpath. Popular activities include boating, fishing, hiking, and biking. The boat ramp allows easy access to the river for kayakers and anglers. Some visitors also enjoy swimming informally at the river, although it's not an officially designated swimming area.

HikingNumerous trails are accessible from the campground, including the C&O Canal Towpath and hiking routes to nearby natural attractions like the Indigo Tunnel. "It’s by the river, and very peaceful and well kept," mentioned one user about the hiking experience.

FishingFishing is a highly popular activity here. "Great location for camping, kayaking, and biking," said one user. Maryland fishing licenses are required for those aged 16 and older.

SwimmingThere are no official swimming areas, but some users mentioned swimming informally in the Potomac River. "Make sure to take a swim in the river!" noted a reviewer.

BikingThe campground is adjacent to the C&O Canal Towpath, which is highly suitable for biking. "Great campground and bike trails nearby," one camper shared.

BoatingThe campground features a boat ramp for easy access to the Potomac River. "There is a boat ramp—the river is shallow at this location," said one review, recommending flat-bottomed boats or kayaks.

Wildlife viewingThe campground is surrounded by natural areas, making it ideal for wildlife observation. "We saw a bald eagle on the river while paddle boarding," shared a user.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include mosquitoes, steep trails, and occasional theft (as indicated in user reviews). Poor water quality and bathroom maintenance issues noted.

Fire PolicyCampfires permitted in designated fire rings only; no cutting live vegetation. Fallen wood may be used for firewood.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesNational Capital Region Communications Center: 1-866-677-6677 for emergencies. Closest hospital or emergency medical facilities are likely in Hancock or Cumberland, MD, approximately 10-25 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingNo trash or recycling bins are available since the park is 'Trash Free.' Campers must carry out all trash and ensure the area is left clean before departure.

Water FeaturesAdjacent to Fifteen Mile Creek and the Potomac River; boat ramp available for fishing and kayaking.

Camp HostNo on-site hosts; National Park Service Rangers manage the area, but campers report minimal enforcement.

Weather at Fifteen Mile Creek Campsite

Reviews

4.0

134 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Fifteen Mile Creek Campsite has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews highlight the beautiful natural surroundings and convenient access to the Potomac River and C&O Canal Towpath. Common praises include the campground's peacefulness, scenic views, and suitability for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. However, frequent complaints involve the lack of privacy between campsites, noise from occasional late-night visitors, and limited amenities.

Review Summaries

Based on 134 reviews

What Campers Love

Notable positive aspects include: scenic views ('Great view of the river and launching area'), excellent hiking and biking access, and clean facilities ('Vault toilets were clean, and the place as a...

Based on 134 reviews

Common Concerns

Concerns raised include: campsites being too close together ('Tiny, tiny loop with 9 sites very close together'), noise from late-night visitors ('Locals drove to the boat launch at all hours of the...

Based on 134 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing your own firewood, water, and hand soap. "RVrs fill your fresh water tank before you get there," noted one reviewer. Others suggest choosing specific sites for the best...

Based on 134 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busy during peak seasons like summer and holiday weekends, with increased activity from boaters and cyclists. Fall is particularly recommended for its scenic beauty. Winter visitors...

Based on 134 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Nice little campground right on the Potomac," "Very beautiful and well kept! Reservations are needed," and "Great site along the trail. I am coming back again."

Based on 134 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 5 is highly praised for its shade and proximity to the river. Site 6 offers excellent river views but less shade. The group site is noted for its spaciousness and separation from other sites.

Based on 134 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility concerns were not specifically mentioned, but the group site requires carrying gear from the parking area, which could be challenging for some users.

Based on 134 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed. One user noted, 'Beautiful area. Peaceful. Only downside was dog poop all around the area. I wish people would pick up after their pooch.'

Based on 134 reviews

0 review