Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park | DARGAN BEND BOAT RAMP

Dargan Bend Boat Ramp in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Dargan Bend Boat Ramp in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park


The Dargan Bend Boat Ramp is located just north of Harpers Ferry at Mile 64.9 on the C&O Canal towpath. See the Boat Ramps web page for an interactive location map.

NOTE: Sections of the towpath, locks and other historical structures, trails, campgrounds, picnic areas, boat ramps, and visitor centers are constantly being closed due to damage and/or repair. When planning an adventure within Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, make sure that areas you plan to visit are open by checking the National Park Service’s official Current Park Conditions web page.


The Dargan Bend Boat Ramp launches into a wide and calm stretch of the Potomac River. It is suitable for both trailer- and hand-launched watercraft. There is parking for vehicles with boat trailers. Like all boat ramps within Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, there is no usage fee.

The Dargan Bend Picnic Area and a chemical toilet—a fancy outhouse in a permanent building—are also available to park visitors.

Downriver view of the Potomac from the Dargan Bend Boat Ramp in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Downriver view of the Potomac from the Dargan Bend Boat Ramp in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Upriver view of the Potomac from the Dargan Bend Boat Ramp in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Upriver view of the Potomac from the Dargan Bend Boat Ramp in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

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Last updated on June 4, 2024
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