Swains Lock Hiker-Biker Campsite

Star4.46
109 reviews
Stargazing

Quick Facts

161 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Water is turned off ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website
Get Directions

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
Swains Lock Hiker-Biker Campsite
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees for reserving campsites.
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

4.46

Recommended

Based on 109 reviews

101 Google reviews

Most mentioned

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"The Swains Lock Hiker-Biker Campsite receives generally positive reviews for its scenic location along the Potomac River and Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath. Users appreciate its free access and proximity to hiking and biking trails, though some express concerns about cleanliness and overcrowding."

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Campground Map

Swains Lock Hiker-Biker Campsite

39.0310, -77.2446

Driving directionsMore information is available at http://www.nps.gov/choh/
Access from major roads is not explicitly detailed, but the campsite is located along the C&O Canal Towpath.
Nearby places
Potomac, MD - Null distance
Great Falls, VA - Null distance
Nearby supplies
Pizza delivery available near parking lot per user reviews
detailed supply locations are not provided.

Best Time to Camp at Swains Lock Hiker-Biker Campsite

Winter transforms this riverside retreat into a quiet sanctuary, with overcast skies casting silver light across the canal and temperatures that reward the prepared camper with solitude. From mid-November through mid-April, the water supply hibernates along with the crowds, making this the perfect season for self-sufficient adventurers seeking peaceful contemplation along the towpath.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Peak season is mid-April–Nov; summer weekends often crowded and sometimes dirty facilities.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall offers quieter visits and attractive riverside scenery; water is available through Nov.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Camping season resumes mid-April; spring offers good hiking/biking though early spring water may be off.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Water turned off mid-Nov–mid-Apr; winter is quiet but cold and lacks potable water/amenities.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Camping season is mid-April to mid-November when water is available.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Water is turned off mid-November to mid-April each year.
  • Current Alerts: Towpath closures and detours due to hazardous conditions or maintenance are in effect. Vehicles cannot reach certain parking lots during closures.

About Swains Lock Hiker-Biker Campsite

Where the historic C&O Canal meets the rushing Potomac at Mile 16.6, Swains Lock Hiker-Biker Campsite beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience just minutes from civilization. This cherished primitive campground draws outdoor enthusiasts with its chemical toilets, sturdy picnic tables, fire grills, and access to untreated water—though seasoned visitors recommend bringing a filter. Free and first-come, first-served, this popular spot fills quickly on weekends as cyclists, hikers, and paddlers converge, drawn by its proximity to the spectacular Great Falls and the limited parking that keeps crowds naturally in check.
This campsite is tailored for hiker and biker visitors, offering free, primitive camping without advanced reservations. It is a highly minimalist site with limited amenities.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Arrival at any time is permitted.
Check-out
Check out by 12:00 noon.
Stay Limit
Overnight stays limited to one night.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

The Swains Lock Hiker-Biker Campsite offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying the scenic views of the Potomac River and the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath.
HikingHiking is a popular activity along the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath, which spans 184.5 miles with sections accessible from the campsite. The towpath offers easy terrain suitable for families and casual walkers.
BikingBiking along the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath is a primary attraction. The towpath is a well-known route for long-distance bikers as well as day trip enthusiasts.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsNon-potable water requiring treatment, steep riverbanks, and occasional flooding in low spots after heavy rain.
Active AlertsTowpath closures and detours due to hazardous conditions or maintenance are in effect. Vehicles cannot reach certain parking lots during closures.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Swains Lock Hiker-Biker Campsite

Reviews

4.5
109 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Swains Lock Hiker-Biker Campsite is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Swains Lock Hiker-Biker Campsite receives generally positive reviews for its scenic location along the Potomac River and Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath. Users appreciate its free access and proximity to hiking and biking trails, though some express concerns about cleanliness and overcrowding.
Review Summaries
Based on 109 reviews

What Campers Love

Common praises include the site's picturesque setting, free availability, and convenience for hikers and bikers. Many users highlight its proximity to Great Falls and the serene river views as...
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Based on 109 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints pertain to the cleanliness of the chemical toilets, lack of potable water, and limited parking. Overcrowding, particularly on weekends, and occasional misuse of the free camping...
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Based on 109 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring potable water and trash bags. Arrive early to secure a campsite, especially on weekends. Visitors suggest using firewood from across the canal and emphasize practicing Leave No Trace principles.
Based on 109 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campsite is described as heavily trafficked during peak seasons like summer weekends, often leading to overcrowding. Cooler months offer quieter experiences but require preparedness for seasonal...
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Based on 109 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Nice place, free camping. Only downside is the bathroom doesn't get cleaned enough and is always out of toilet paper.' – BabyFUG 2. 'What a beautiful, quiet, and small campsite. It’s really...
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Based on 109 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific reviews highlight the campsite's proximity to the C&O Canal and Potomac River as advantages. However, some users note that the lack of potable water and overcrowding during weekends can...
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Based on 109 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are no specific reviews or mentions about accessibility accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 109 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative content or user reviews, so no specific information is available.
Based on 109 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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