Opequon Junction Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Hike-in and boat-in access defines this primitive camping spot along the Potomac River within Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. The National Park Service manages this walk-in site, which sits roughly 50 meters from the river and just off the towpath trail. Campers must carry gear to reach the location, as no vehicle access exists.

The site prohibits pets but allows alcohol, making it suitable for adult backpacking groups seeking riverside camping. One reviewer notes the proximity to both trail and water. For additional primitive options, campers can explore tent spots around Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. Pack all water and supplies, as no facilities operate on-site.

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Location

Public Campground

Opequon Junction Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is located in Maryland

Detail location of campground

Directions

More information is available at http://www.nps.gov/choh/.

Coordinates

39.609192 N
77.85283 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 4/3/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 4/3/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol

Drive Time


Reviews

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5.0

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1 Review

Reviewed Apr. 13, 2025

Trailside spot

Gorgeous spot just off the trail and 50 meters from the Potomac

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Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Opequon Junction Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park by Emerson K., April 13, 2025
  • Review photo of Opequon Junction Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park by Emerson K., April 13, 2025
  • Review photo of Opequon Junction Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park by Emerson K., April 13, 2025
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Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Opequon Junction Campground?

Opequon Junction Campground is a primitive hiker-biker site with minimal facilities. The campsite offers basic camping space in a beautiful natural setting adjacent to the trail and near the Potomac River. As with most hiker-biker campsites along the C&O Canal, you can expect a water pump (seasonal availability), a camping area, and possibly a portable toilet. The site does not offer electricity, showers, or trash service, so plan to pack out all waste. Prepare for a true backcountry experience and bring necessary supplies for primitive camping.

Where is Opequon Junction Campground located and how do I get there?

Opequon Junction Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite is located along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. The campsite sits just off the canal towpath, approximately 50 meters from the Potomac River. To reach this campground, follow the C&O Canal towpath to the junction marker at Opequon Junction. The site is specifically designed for hikers and bikers traveling along the historic canal route. As a hiker-biker campsite, it's accessible primarily via the towpath trail rather than by vehicle, making it ideal for through-hikers and cyclists exploring the C&O Canal.

How close is Opequon Junction Campground to McCoys Ferry?

McCoys Ferry is located approximately 7-8 miles east of Opequon Junction Campground along the C&O Canal towpath. For hikers, this represents about a 2-3 hour journey depending on pace, while cyclists can typically make the trip in under an hour. McCoys Ferry offers additional amenities not found at Opequon Junction, including drive-in access, a boat ramp, and more developed facilities. The towpath between these two locations follows the scenic Potomac River, providing beautiful views during the journey between the sites.