Marsden Tract Group Campsite

3.97

78 reviews

Quick Facts

164 ft

Price

$20 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Open April 15th thro...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens booking site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

164 ft

Price

$20 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Open April 15th thro...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens booking site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Marsden Tract Group Campsite

$20.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Seasonal pricing applies: $40 during peak season (April 15 - November 15) and $20 during non-peak season (November 16 - December 31). Additional...

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$40.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

3.97

Mixed Reviews

Based on 78 reviews

35 Google reviews

Most mentioned

sceneryhikingsites

Some mention

noise

"The Marsden Tract Group Campsite is appreciated for its spaciousness, proximity to D.C., and access to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. However, many reviews highlight serious issues with the cleanliness of portable toilets and logistical challenges related to parking and site access."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Marsden Tract Group Campsite

38.9787, -77.2161

Driving directionsFrom I-495 in Maryland: Take Exit 41 toward Carderock/Great Falls. Merge onto the Clara Barton Pkwy and continue 1 mile to the Carderock exit. Take the Carderock exit and at the stop sign, turn left to cross over the Clara Barton Pkwy. Follow the road until you reach a second stop sign. Turn right and continue to the last parking lot. Take the short walking path to the canal. Turn upstream and hike about 0.5 miles. Alternatively, parking at Angler's Inn is available with similar hiking distance.

Accessible via Clara Barton Parkway. No vehicle access to the campsite; a short hike is required from nearby parking areas.

Nearby places

Bethesda (approx. 5 miles), Washington D.C. (approx. 14 miles), Potomac (approx. 7 miles)

Nearby supplies

Supplies can be acquired at grocery stores and hardware stores approximately 8 minutes by driving. Angler's Inn provides restaurant options.

Best Time to Camp at Marsden Tract Group Campsite

Experience the full spectrum of Mid-Atlantic seasons at Marsden Tract, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Winter brings a crisp, quiet beauty to the woods, with occasional snow dustings transforming the trails into wonderlands. Spring and fall showcase nature's artistry with mild temperatures perfect for hiking, vibrant wildflowers, and spectacular autumn foliage reflecting in the canal waters. Summer invites long days of riverside relaxation and evening campfire stories under star-filled skies, with warm temperatures ideal for exploring every corner of this natural playground.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

High activity and proximity to D.C.; reviewers note heat and hike-in logistics as summer issues.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall offers scenic foliage, quieter trails and is frequently cited as a popular season.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Opens Apr 15; spring brings high activity and great trail access though can be busy early season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Campground closed Jan–Mar and water is off Nov–Apr; winter is quiet but services are limited.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 15th - November 15th.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open April 15th through December 31st. Water facilities turned off November through April.
Current Alerts: Section B of Billy Goat Trail temporarily closed. Potable water may be unavailable during winter months.

About Marsden Tract Group Campsite

Escape the bustle of the nation's capital at Marsden Tract Group Campsite, where six spacious woodland sites welcome groups of up to 30 adventurers each. Just minutes from Washington D.C., this riverside retreat serves as your basecamp for conquering the legendary Billy Goat Trail, casting lines into the historic Potomac, and discovering the dramatic geological wonders that define the Great Falls region. Here, ancient rock formations tell stories millions of years in the making, while the forest canopy provides a peaceful sanctuary for memorable group gatherings.

The Marsden Tract Group Campsite is designed as a group-only camping facility, featuring six nonelectric tent-only sites accessible by foot.

Historical SignificanceCamp where history flows as steadily as the Potomac River itself. Marsden Tract places you at the crossroads of American heritage, offering easy access to the treasures of Washington D.C., including the iconic National Mall and the world-renowned Smithsonian Institution. By day, explore the museums and monuments that shaped our nation; by evening, return to your peaceful woodland retreat where the same river that witnessed centuries of American history lulls you to sleep.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Mid-Atlantic seasons at Marsden Tract, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Winter brings a crisp, quiet beauty to the woods, with occasional snow dustings transforming the trails into wonderlands. Spring and fall showcase nature's artistry with mild temperatures perfect for hiking, vibrant wildflowers, and spectacular autumn foliage reflecting in the canal waters. Summer invites long days of riverside relaxation and evening campfire stories under star-filled skies, with warm temperatures ideal for exploring every corner of this natural playground.

ElevationNestled at near sea level along the mighty Potomac River's banks, Marsden Tract offers gentle terrain that welcomes campers of all ages and abilities. This riverside elevation creates a unique microclimate where river breezes cool summer evenings and morning mists create ethereal landscapes that photographers dream about.

Natural Features and SceneryDiscover your own slice of paradise tucked between two of Maryland's most beloved waterways—the historic C&O Canal and the majestic Potomac River. Towering trees create a natural cathedral overhead, while the interplay of water and woodland provides endless opportunities for exploration and photography. The campsite's strategic location offers front-row seats to nature's daily performances, from great blue herons fishing at dawn to deer emerging from the forest at dusk, all set against a backdrop of serene river views.

Geological RegionMarvel at Mother Nature's ancient artwork along the C&O Canal corridor, where the Potomac River has carved a geological masterpiece over millions of years. Your campsite sits at the gateway to some of the East Coast's most dramatic natural features, including the thundering Great Falls and the narrow, cliff-lined passage of Mather Gorge. These exposed billion-year-old rock formations offer a fascinating glimpse into Earth's violent past, creating a landscape that's as educational as it is breathtaking.

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

1:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit per visit is 14 consecutive days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 30 guests per group campsite.

Groups

Each group site accommodates up to 30 campers, making it suitable for youth groups, scouts, and other large gatherings.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSix spacious group sites, divided into two sections. Sites 1-3 are left of the footbridge, sites 4-6 are right and closer.

Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-in availability due to reservation requirements. Entry is strictly managed through advanced bookings.

Cancellation PolicyFor group facilities: cancellations less than 14 days before arrival incur a $10 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee.

AccessibilityAccessibility is limited due to the walk-in nature of the campsite, hilly terrain, and numerous steps. There are no specific features designed for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeEach of the six campsites can accommodate up to 30 campers, making them suitable for large groups.

PrivacyThe campsites are spacious and offer good separation from one another for privacy. However, some areas lack clear site markings.

Total Campsites6 campsites

Recommended SitesUse a wagon for transporting gear due to steep trails. Sites 1-3 are closer to the footbridge, while sites 4-6 offer better privacy.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The Marsden Tract Group Campsite provides access to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and biking. The proximity to the Billy Goat Trail and C&O Canal Towpath is a highlight for most visitors. However, there are restrictions on swimming and alcohol consumption.

HikingThe Billy Goat Trail, located nearby, is one of the most popular and challenging hikes in the region. While Section B is temporarily closed, Sections A and C remain accessible. There are also numerous woodland trails catering to hikers of varying skill levels.

ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.

FishingFishing is popular in both the C&O Canal and the Potomac River. A Maryland fishing license is required for those aged 16 or older, and Virginia licenses are accepted for fishing in the Potomac River.

BikingThe campsite provides direct access to the C&O Canal Towpath, which is popular for biking. The trail offers scenic views and is well-suited for cyclists of all skill levels.

BoatingPaddling opportunities are available on the Potomac River, but no specific facilities for boating are mentioned at the campsite.

Wildlife viewingCampers frequently report sightings of diverse wildlife, including blue herons, deer, and other native species.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsCopperhead snakes and rabid wildlife have been reported in the area. Airplane noise and proximity to roads may detract from the experience.

Active Alertstemporarily closed. | Section B of Billy Goat Trail temporarily closed. Potable water may be unavailable during winter months.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed in designated fire rings only. Fallen dead timber may be used for firewood, but chainsaws are prohibited.

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

Emergency ServicesPark emergencies can be reported at (866) 677-6677 or 911. Closest staffed facility is Carderock Recreation Area.

Trash & RecyclingThe park operates as a 'Trash Free Park,' meaning no trash or recycling bins are provided. Campers are expected to pack out all their waste.

Water FeaturesLocated between the Canal and Potomac River. Water access is through potable water stations (seasonal).

Camp HostNo on-site host. Issues can be reported to US Park Police at (202) 610-7500.

Weather at Marsden Tract Group Campsite

Reviews

4.0

78 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Marsden Tract Group Campsite has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

The Marsden Tract Group Campsite is appreciated for its spaciousness, proximity to D.C., and access to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. However, many reviews highlight serious issues with the cleanliness of portable toilets and logistical challenges related to parking and site access.

Review Summaries

Based on 78 reviews

What Campers Love

- 'Great access to trails, hiking, scrambling, etc.' (Brendan M.) - 'Beautiful scenery right on the river, plentiful firewood.' (Aaron H.) - 'Flat and level sites with plenty of room for group...

Based on 78 reviews

Common Concerns

- 'Toilets filthy, my campsite had a deer feeder that would turn on every so often in the middle of the night.' (Nathan C.) - 'No site markings on entrance but there are separate entrances for each...

Based on 78 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Use a fold-up wagon to simplify gear transportation (None Given). - Bring gloves for trash cleanup as no bins are available (Lisa T.). - Plan for a significant walk from parking to the site,...

Based on 78 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer: High activity due to proximity to D.C. attractions; complaints about heat and hike-in logistics. Fall: Scenic views and quieter trails make this a popular season. Winter: Limited water...

Based on 78 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'You can’t drive your car to the campground; it was a horrible experience.' (知行易) - 'The port-a-johns were about a 1/4 mile from the campsite, next to the drop-off area.' (Jason G.) - 'No shower...

Based on 78 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

- Campsite 1: 'One picnic table in this campsite needs a new tabletop board.' (Nolan M.) - Campsite 3: 'The site was level with plenty of space for everybody to set up their tents.' (Jason G.) -...

Based on 78 reviews