Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park | NOLANDS FERRY PICNIC AREA

Nolands Ferry Picnic Area at Mile 44.6 on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal towpath

Nolands Ferry Picnic Area at Mile 44.6 on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal towpath


Nolands Ferry Picnic Area is located at Mile 44.6 on the Chesapeake and Ohio 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 that areas you plan to visit are open by checking the National Park Service’s official Current Park Conditions web page.


There are three picnic tables at Nolands Ferry, each with its own grill. The tables are situated in a large field right next to the C&O Canal towpath. There is no shade. An indoor chemical toilet is also on the property, and the Nolands Ferry Boat Ramp is just a little farther down the road. The parking lot holds approximately a half dozen cars.

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 still welcome to picnic at Nolands Ferry, but they run the risk of not getting picnic tables. Also, groups of more than 25 people need a Special Use Permit.

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Last updated on June 26, 2024
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