Sorrel Ridge Campsite across from Lock 62 on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
The Sorrel Ridge Creek Hiker-Biker Campsite is located at Mile 154.1 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 Sorrel Ridge Hiker-Biker Campsite at Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is a fairly long and narrow campsite that runs along the Potomac River. From the towpath, it is a downhill walk to the clearing where the campsite is. Most of the terrain is sloped and not suited for tents, but things do level out at the bottom. There are no set camping spots, so just pitch your tent anywhere within the campsite boundary.
Level tent area at the Sorrel Ridge Campsite, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
There is a picnic table and stand-up grill at one end of the campsite and a ground-level grill / fire pit at the other end. A portable toilet sits next to the towpath. Amenities are shared by all campers.
Picnic table and grill at the Sorrel Ridge Campsite, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
There is also a hand-pumped water spigot next to the ruins of the former Lock 62 lockhouse (the campsite is across the towpath from the lock itself). However, the water is not suitable for drinking or cooking without treatment, filtration, or boiling. It is turned off from November 15th through April 15th.
Sorrel Ridge Campsite water spigot next to the Lock 62 lockhouse ruins, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Hike-Biker campsites are located at remote areas along the Chesapeake and Ohio 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 you will be moving on in the morning.
With a few exceptions, use of any photograph on the National Park Planner website requires a paid Royalty Free Editorial Use License or Commercial Use License. See the Photo Usage page for details.
Last updated on June 26, 2026
