Antietam Creek Campsite

4.11

267 reviews

Quick Facts

308 ft

Price

$10 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Open April 15 - Dece...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet 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

308 ft

Price

$10 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Open April 15 - Dece...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Antietam Creek Campsite

$10.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range from $20 per night during peak season (April 15 - November 15) to $10 per night 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$0.00

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See something outdated or incorrect?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

4.11

Satisfactory

Based on 267 reviews

145 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulcleanspacious

Some mention

noisetrain

"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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Antietam Creek Campsite

39.4191, -77.7465

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.

Access is by foot only as no vehicular traffic is allowed on the towpath. Parking is allowed on the shoulder of Canal Rd. The campground can be accessed via a bridge crossing the canal. A wagon is recommended for transporting camping equipment.

Nearby places

Shepherdstown, WV (4 miles)

Harpers Ferry, WV (9 miles)

Hagerstown, MD (12 miles)

Charlestown, WV (15 miles)

Nearby supplies

Supplies can be obtained in Shepherdstown, WV (4 miles away) or Hagerstown, MD (12 miles). Local grocery stores, fuel stations, and camping supplies are available.

Best Time to Camp at Antietam Creek Campsite

From mid-April through November, Antietam Creek comes alive with perfect camping weather. Spring brings wildflowers and migrating birds, summer offers warm days ideal for river activities, and fall paints the canopy in brilliant golds and crimsons. The peak season's mild temperatures create ideal conditions for both adventure and relaxation. Winter camping from mid-November through December rewards the prepared adventurer with crisp, star-filled nights and frost-kissed mornings, though proper cold-weather gear is essential for comfort.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Warm and ideal for river activities but crowded, noisy, and insect-prone in summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall offers pleasant weather and scenic foliage; hiking/biking are enjoyable then.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring brings wildflowers and migrating birds; campground comes alive April onward.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.5 / 5

Quieter winter camping noted but reduced water access and site is closed Jan–mid-April.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 15 - November 15.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open April 15 - December 31.
Current Alerts: Water may not be available during colder months; campers are advised to bring backup potable water.

About Antietam Creek Campsite

Discover your perfect riverside retreat at Antietam Creek Campsite, where the gentle waters of the C&O Canal meet the mighty Potomac River at Mile 69.4. This peaceful tent-only sanctuary invites you to unplug and immerse yourself in nature's embrace. Cast a line into the tranquil waters, launch your kayak for a morning paddle, or set off on foot to explore miles of scenic towpath trails. History buffs will find themselves perfectly positioned to step back in time, with the hallowed grounds of Antietam Battlefield just a short journey away.

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.

Historical SignificanceCamp where history echoes through the trees. Your tent sits within easy reach of America's most significant Civil War sites, including the solemn fields of Antietam Battlefield, where the bloodiest single day in American history unfolded. Venture to the dramatic ridges of South Mountain Recreation Area or make the pilgrimage to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, where John Brown's raid sparked a nation's conscience. Each destination offers a profound journey through the chapters that shaped our country.

Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-April through November, Antietam Creek comes alive with perfect camping weather. Spring brings wildflowers and migrating birds, summer offers warm days ideal for river activities, and fall paints the canopy in brilliant golds and crimsons. The peak season's mild temperatures create ideal conditions for both adventure and relaxation. Winter camping from mid-November through December rewards the prepared adventurer with crisp, star-filled nights and frost-kissed mornings, though proper cold-weather gear is essential for comfort.

Natural Features and SceneryWake to mist rising off the Potomac as ancient sycamores stretch their pale limbs toward the dawn sky. This woodland haven cradles you between two waterways – the historic C&O Canal with its still waters reflecting the forest canopy, and the ever-flowing Potomac River. The gentle Antietam Creek meanders nearby, its peaceful current creating perfect spots for quiet contemplation. Through the seasons, watch as spring's tender greens transform to summer's lush canopy, then burst into autumn's fiery display, while morning fog creates an ethereal atmosphere that photographers dream about.

Geological RegionNestled along Maryland's scenic Potomac shoreline, Antietam Creek Campsite occupies a special pocket where creek meets river in a timeless dance. The campground rests in the heart of the C&O Canal corridor, where centuries of flowing water have carved a gentle landscape perfect for exploration. Here, where Antietam Creek completes its journey by joining the Potomac, campers find themselves surrounded by a rich tapestry of riverine forest that has sheltered travelers for generations.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in is at 1:00 PM EST.

Check-out

Check-out is at 12:00 PM EST.

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

Site layoutCampground consists of 20 tent-only sites arranged in a linear layout along the canal towpath.

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

Walk-in AvailabilityThere are no walk-up sites available for this campground as all 20 sites require reservations.

Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for reservations canceled up to 2 days before the reservation start date. Late cancellations incur an additional charge of the first night's use fee. No refunds or modifications are possible for same-day cancellations.

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.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

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.

HikingHiking opportunities abound along the C&O Canal Towpath, offering flat and scenic routes. The towpath is ideal for casual strolls and cyclists, connecting to nearby historical landmarks like Harpers Ferry and Antietam Battlefield.

FishingFishing is a popular activity in the Potomac River and watered sections of the C&O Canal. Anglers need a Maryland Fishing License or a West Virginia license for the Potomac River.

BikingThe C&O Canal Towpath is frequently used by cyclists. The flat terrain makes it suitable for riders of all levels. Cyclists can explore the trail in either direction for scenic views and access to historical sites.

BoatingBoating, including kayaking, is a favored activity. The nearby Potomac River and Antietam Creek provide scenic paddling opportunities. Boat ramps at Dargan Bend and Snyders Landing support motorized and non-motorized boating.

Wildlife viewingThe area is home to diverse wildlife, including barred owls, woodpeckers, and bullfrogs. The Potomac River and surrounding woodlands offer excellent chances for birdwatching and observing local fauna.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRiver rise and floods can modify conditions quickly. Poison ivy is present around sites and paths. Steep paths to the Potomac may be difficult to navigate.

Active AlertsWater may not be available during colder months; campers are advised to bring backup potable water.

Fire PolicyFires are permitted only within established fire rings. Campers are encouraged to bring kiln-fired or dried wood as fallen dead timber can also be used as firewood. Chainsaws are prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are observed from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include hospitals and police stations in Hagerstown, MD and Shepherdstown, WV, approximately 9-12 miles away.

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.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to the Potomac River and Antietam Creek. Some sites have steep paths leading to the river.

Camp HostThe campground host Gary is frequently commended for being friendly and helpful, maintaining restrooms, checking on campers, and providing assistance as needed.

Weather at Antietam Creek Campsite

Reviews

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

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

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #20 is highly praised for its privacy and easy access to the Potomac. Site #7 and #8 are noted for their proximity to the footbridge, simplifying gear transportation. Complaints about site #13...

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