Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite

Star3.94
117 reviews
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Quick Facts

554 ft

Price

$10 - $20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Open April 16 - Dece...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Recreation.gov 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
Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season tent-only fee is $20. Non-peak season tent-only rate drops to $10.
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

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Provider
877-444-6777.
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What Campers Say

3.94

Mixed Reviews

Based on 117 reviews

66 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanhikingwell-maintained

Some mention

noisecrowdedtrain

"Reviews for Paw Paw Tunnel Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment score of 3.57 specifically for the campground experience. Positive comments highlight the natural beauty of the location, proximity to the Paw Paw Tunnel, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. Negative feedback often points to the lack of privacy, maintenance issues (e.g., non-functioning water pump), and noise from nearby roads and trains."

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Campground Map

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Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite

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Driving directionsFrom Cumberland, MD: Follow MD-51 S/E Industrial Road for approximately 24 miles. Campground will be directly off 51, on the left side of the road.
Accessible directly via MD-51. Roads are paved and accessibility is straightforward for all vehicles.
Nearby places
Cumberland, MD (25 miles west), Paw Paw, WV (across Potomac River, near campground)
Nearby supplies
Dollar General nearby
nearby town access for basic supplies and restaurants
Green Ridge State Forest for recreation.

Best Time to Camp at Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite

Experience the gentle rhythms of Western Maryland's climate, where sun-drenched days give way to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire stories. While the region enjoys predominantly dry conditions, occasional rain showers breathe life into the forest, releasing the earthy scent of pine and oak. During peak season, you'll discover why generations of outdoor enthusiasts return here—warm afternoons ideal for riverside exploration transition into crisp nights that demand a cozy sleeping bag and perhaps an extra layer.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Warm days good for activities but summer reviews note increased crowding and maintenance issues.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 25% in MD

Autumn highlighted as most beautiful season with vibrant foliage and scenic vistas.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring wildflowers and opening of the season (April 16) make it attractive for hiking and nature.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Campground closed Jan–Mar; December open but winter stays are less common and water limited.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: April 16 - November 15 (peak season dates for higher pricing).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open April 16 - December 31 annually. Water availability April 15 - November 1.
  • Current Alerts: Occasional construction at or near the Paw Paw Tunnel may restrict full access.

About Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite

Nestled at Mile 156 of the historic C&O Canal Towpath, Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This primitive campground serves as your gateway to the legendary Paw Paw Tunnel trail, where towering rock walls echo with centuries of history. With the mighty Potomac River flowing nearby, you'll fall asleep to nature's symphony and wake to misty mornings that promise new discoveries along the storied towpath.
The Paw Paw Tunnel Campground is a primitive camping site offering basic facilities for tent camping. RVs are not accommodated, and the campground is suitable for small group camping. No cabins or glamping options are available.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
1:00 PM ET
Check-out
12:00 PM ET
Stay Limit
  • 14 consecutive nights allowed per visit
  • annual maximum stay is 30 nights.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors to the Paw Paw Tunnel Campground can enjoy several outdoor activities. These include hiking on the Paw Paw Tunnel trails and the C&O Canal Towpath, biking along the towpath, kayaking on the Potomac River, and fishing (Maryland Fishing License required for those aged 16 and older). The campground's location near the Potomac River offers opportunities for nature observation. 'The tunnel trail is amazing, offering scenic views of the Potomac River and valley,' according to one review. Reviews also highlight bird-watching opportunities, including sightings of deer, turkeys, woodpeckers, and geese. Swimming in the Potomac River is accessible but not officially designated as an activity.
HikingHiking opportunities include the Paw Paw Tunnel trails and the C&O Canal Towpath. Trails offer a mix of moderate to strenuous difficulty levels and provide scenic views. 'The tunnel is a fun and easy hike,' said one reviewer, while another mentioned, 'The trail overtop has amazing views.'
FishingFishing is permitted along the nearby Potomac River. A Maryland Fishing License is required for participants aged 16 and older.
BikingThe C&O Canal Towpath offers biking opportunities. It is a well-traveled path, accessible directly from the campground.
BoatingBoating activities such as kayaking are popular, with a boat ramp located nearby in the town of Paw Paw, WV.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a highlight, with mentions of deer, turkeys, woodpeckers, rabbits, and geese in the area.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsProximity to road noise and train tracks may disturb sleep. Wildlife like small critters may pose minor nuisances. Porta-potties occasionally reported as unclean.
Active AlertsOccasional construction at or near the Paw Paw Tunnel may restrict full access.

Weather at Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite

Reviews

3.9
117 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Paw Paw Tunnel Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment score of 3.57 specifically for the campground experience. Positive comments highlight the natural beauty of the location, proximity to the Paw Paw Tunnel, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. Negative feedback often points to the lack of privacy, maintenance issues (e.g., non-functioning water pump), and noise from nearby roads and trains.
Review Summaries
Based on 117 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects frequently mentioned include: 'Clean and well-maintained,' 'Convenient access to hiking trails and the Potomac River,' and 'Great for family or group camping.' Several reviewers...
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Based on 117 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include: 'Non-functioning water pump,' 'Limited privacy between campsites,' 'Noise from the nearby road and train tracks,' 'Inadequate enforcement of camping permits,' and 'Trash...
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Based on 117 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing your own potable water and hand sanitizer. A flashlight is essential for exploring the Paw Paw Tunnel. Early arrival is advised to secure parking, as the lot fills quickly....
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Based on 117 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Autumn is highlighted as the most beautiful season due to vibrant foliage. However, summer reviews note increased crowding and maintenance issues. Winter stays are less common due to the seasonal...
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Based on 117 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The tunnel trail is amazing, offering scenic views of the Potomac River and valley.' 2. 'The campground is situated in an open grassy field with no significant tree cover or natural barriers.' 3....
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Based on 117 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite 2: 'Large enough to fit multiple tents, but was left in a dirty condition by previous campers.' Campsite 10: 'Chose it for privacy, but it was less than 15 feet from the next site.' Campsite...
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Based on 117 reviews

Accessibility Features

No detailed accessibility reviews are available, but the primitive nature of the campground and lack of paved paths may limit ease of access for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 117 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and users note the convenience of bringing dogs. However, owners must ensure pets are leashed and waste is packed out.
Based on 117 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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