Potomac Forks Hiker-Biker Campsite

Star4.23
13 reviews

Quick Facts

656 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

Water is turned off ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Potomac Forks Hiker-Biker Campsite
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fee is required for staying at hiker-biker sites along the towpath.
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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Provider
(301) 739-4200choh_information@nps.gov
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What Campers Say

4.23

Satisfactory

Based on 13 reviews

7 Google reviews

"The Potomac Forks Hiker-Biker Campsite has been positively received by users, with an average sentiment rating of 4.57 for general reviews and 4.25 for campground-specific reviews. Visitors appreciate its location and simplicity, although some noted issues with water and noise."

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Campground Map

Potomac Forks Hiker-Biker Campsite

39.5309, -78.5890

Driving directionsDirections to Potomac Forks Hiker-Biker Campsite are available via the National Park Service website at http://www.nps.gov/choh/.
The campsite is accessible via the towpath of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, which is primarily used by hikers and bikers. It appears to be remote and not accessible directly by vehicle.

Best Time to Camp at Potomac Forks Hiker-Biker Campsite

Experience the campsite's seasonal rhythm as nature transforms the landscape throughout the year. From mid-November through mid-April, water facilities hibernate for the winter months, reminding visitors to pack extra supplies during cooler seasons when frost kisses the canal banks and the towpath takes on a quieter, more contemplative character.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Water available and towpath activities are in peak use; popular season for hikers/bikers.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall foliage and active towpath use make it an attractive season; water generally available.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Towpath use resumes and water is on (after mid-Apr), making spring a good season for visits.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Less popular in winter; water turned off mid-Nov to mid-Apr, and colder weather reduces convenience.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: Water is turned off from mid-November to mid-April each year, making camping outside of these months less convenient.

About Potomac Forks Hiker-Biker Campsite

Discover a hidden gem along the historic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal at Potomac Forks Hiker-Biker Campsite, where Mile Marker 164.8 marks your gateway to adventure. This complimentary riverside retreat welcomes weary travelers exploring the legendary towpath, offering essential amenities and a peaceful respite after a day of pedaling or hiking through Maryland's scenic countryside.
The campsite is specifically designed for hikers and bikers and does not require a reservation. No fee is charged for usage.
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Stay Limit
Overnight stays are limited to one night.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

This campsite is part of a larger recreational area designed for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include hiking and biking along the towpath.
HikingThe towpath offers extensive hiking opportunities for all skill levels.
BikingBiking is a popular activity along the C&O Canal Towpath, which runs adjacent to the campsite.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWater at hiker-biker campsites is non-potable; it must be filtered, treated, or boiled before use. Water is unavailable from mid-November to mid-April.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Potomac Forks Hiker-Biker Campsite

Reviews

4.2
13 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Potomac Forks Hiker-Biker Campsite is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Potomac Forks Hiker-Biker Campsite has been positively received by users, with an average sentiment rating of 4.57 for general reviews and 4.25 for campground-specific reviews. Visitors appreciate its location and simplicity, although some noted issues with water and noise.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the campsite as a great stopping point along the C&O Canal Towpath, appreciating its accessibility for hikers and bikers. One camper labeled it as 'a great place to spend the night...
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Based on 13 reviews

Common Concerns

The most frequent complaint was related to the water pump, which was described as unreliable. Raymond Vogel mentioned, 'The water pump never works.' Additionally, some visitors were disturbed by...
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Based on 13 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to bring their own potable water, particularly during the off-season when the on-site water supply is turned off. Earplugs might be helpful for light sleepers due to nighttime...
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Based on 13 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campsite is less popular during the winter months due to the seasonal water supply being turned off (mid-November to mid-April) and colder weather along the towpath.
Based on 13 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'By far my favorite campsite along the C&O Canal.' - Raymond Vogel - 'A great place to spend the night after a long ride or backpacking trek.' - John Mathews - 'The only downfall would be the...
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Based on 13 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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