Picnic table along the Potomac River at the Four Locks Picnic Area in Chesapeake and Ohio National Historical Park

The Four Locks Picnic Area is located at Mile 108.8 on the C&O Canal towpath. See the Picnic Areas 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 the areas you plan to visit are open by checking the National Park Service’s official Current Park Conditions web page.

Situated below Lock and Lockhouse 49 in Clear Spring, Maryland, is the Four Locks Picnic Area. Seven tables and six grills are located along the Potomac River. The terrain is level, grassy, and there are plenty of shade trees. A indoor chemical toilet (i.e. a fancy outhouse) is located next to the parking area. There is also a boat ramp within the park.

Like nearly all picnic areas within Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, tables are taken on a first come, first served basis. If you have a large group and would like a place to picnic, the pavilion at Carderock near the Great Falls is the only spot in the park that can be reserved. Groups are welcome to picnic at Four Locks, but they run the risk of not getting picnic tables. Also, groups of more than 25 people need a Special Use Permit.