Horseshoe Bend Hiker-Biker Campground in Chesapeake and Ohio National Historical Park

The Horseshoe Bend Campsite is located at Mile 79.2 on the C&O Canal towpath. See the Camping 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 Horseshoe Bend Campsite is a hiker-biker campsite situated on a level field that is partially covered with grass and surrounded by shade trees. Campers are welcome to pitch a tent anywhere they can find a space. A picnic table and grill are available, though these must be shared. There is also a hand-pumped water spigot that produces water treated with iodine so that it is drinkable, provided that you are not physically adverse to iodine. The water is turned off from November 15 through April 15.

Hike-Biker campsites are located at remote areas along the C&O Canal towpath and can only be reached by those hiking, biking, or horseback riding. There is no charge to camp, but the sites do not have any facilities other than a portable toilet. Stay is limited to one night, so it is assumed that you will be moving on in the morning.