15 Mile Creek Campground

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### Discover Riverside Bliss at 15 Mile Creek Campground in Little Orleans, Maryland

For Marylanders seeking a beautiful and convenient basecamp for their outdoor adventures, 15 Mile Creek Campground in Little Orleans offers an exceptional experience. Nestled along the historic Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) Canal National Historical Park and adjacent to the tranquil Potomac River, this campground provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and essential amenities. It's a prime destination for those looking to explore Western Maryland's scenic waterways and extensive trail systems, or simply enjoy a peaceful riverside retreat.

As visitors frequently attest, 15 Mile Creek Campground is lauded for its appeal. One happy camper noted, "Nice campground with a nice boat ramp. Restroom is clean and well maintained. The views of the surroundings are absolutely gorgeous. The restaurant nearby is a plus." Another highlighted its suitability for C&O Canal adventurers, stating, "Reservations required, like $20/site for 6 people. I would recommend this for C&O campers that are looking for a 40 mile day out of Cumberland. Great spot." These testimonials underscore the campground's well-maintained facilities, stunning vistas, and strategic location for exploring the region.

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### Location and Accessibility

15 Mile Creek Campground is ideally situated at 11741 High Germany Rd, Little Orleans, MD 21766, USA. This address places it directly within the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, at Mile 140.9 on the C&O Canal Towpath. Its location makes it particularly accessible for those traveling by vehicle, unlike many of the Canal's more primitive hiker-biker sites. The campground is considered a "drive-in" campground, allowing campers to bring their vehicles and even small RVs directly to their sites.

The campground's proximity to the Potomac River is a significant draw, with a convenient boat ramp on-site for easy access to the waterway. It's also strategically positioned for those exploring the C&O Canal Towpath, whether by foot or bike, offering a great mid-point stop for longer journeys. The small town of Little Orleans, with its local amenities (including "Bill's Place," a popular spot for travelers), is just a short walk or drive away, providing opportunities for provisions or a meal out. Access is straightforward from major routes, making it a convenient destination for campers from across Maryland.

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### Services Offered

15 Mile Creek Campground, managed by the National Park Service, offers a range of essential amenities designed for comfortable camping while maintaining a rustic charm. Unlike the more primitive hiker-biker sites, it caters to campers who prefer drive-in access and some basic comforts.

• Drive-In Campsites: The campground features nine individual, drive-in campsites suitable for tents, trailers, and small RVs (up to 20 feet). Each site includes a gravel pad for parking.
• Group Campsite: There is one group site available that can accommodate up to 30 people. This site does not have direct vehicle access; group campers must walk approximately a tenth of a mile from the parking area, crossing the Fifteenmile Creek Aqueduct.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite (both individual and group) is equipped with a sturdy picnic table for outdoor dining and gear organization.
• Fire Rings and Grills: All sites come with a metal fire ring and grill, perfect for campfires and cooking. Campers are permitted to collect dead material from the ground for firewood use within the campground.
• Restroom Facilities: The campground boasts "protected pit toilets" (vault toilets) that are noted in reviews as being "clean and well maintained." These are typically available year-round.
• Potable Water (Seasonal): A hand-pumped well provides potable water from approximately mid-April to mid-November. It's important to note that this water is treated with iodine; campers with iodine allergies or thyroid medication should use caution or bring their own water. During the off-season, campers must bring all their water.
• Boat Ramp: A two-lane concrete boat ramp provides convenient access to the Potomac River for canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and small electric motorboats (gas-powered engines are generally not allowed).
• Reservations Required: Unlike free hiker-biker sites, reservations are required for 15 Mile Creek Campground and can be made through Recreation.gov.
• Trash Free Park Policy: Campers are required to pack out all their trash to maintain the cleanliness and natural integrity of the park.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed but must be on a leash or under physical control at all times.

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### Features / Highlights

15 Mile Creek Campground stands out with several key features and highlights that enhance the camping experience for visitors to Western Maryland:

• Direct River Access with Boat Ramp: A major draw, allowing campers to easily launch kayaks, canoes, and small boats directly onto the Potomac River for fishing, paddling, and scenic exploration.
• Location on the C&O Canal Towpath: Provides immediate access to the historic C&O Canal, offering endless opportunities for hiking and biking along its flat, scenic route. It's a convenient stop for multi-day bike trips.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Restrooms: A significant plus for campers, ensuring a more comfortable stay compared to more primitive sites.
• Gorgeous Views of the Surroundings: Reviewers consistently praise the "absolutely gorgeous" views of the Potomac River and the surrounding mountains, providing a beautiful backdrop for your camping experience.
• Drive-In Access for RVs/Trailers: Unlike many C&O Canal sites, this campground accommodates vehicles and small RVs (up to 20 feet), making it accessible to a wider range of campers.
• Proximity to Little Orleans Amenities: "The restaurant nearby is a plus" refers to local spots like "Bill's Place" in Little Orleans, offering a convenient option for a meal or resupply just a short distance away.
• Reservable Sites: The ability to reserve a site in advance (up to 6 months) provides peace of mind, especially during peak seasons, ensuring you have a spot when you arrive.
• Group Site Availability: The presence of a group site caters to larger parties, making it easier for families or friends to camp together.
• Access to Green Ridge State Forest: The campground is adjacent to Green Ridge State Forest, offering additional opportunities for hiking and exploring Maryland's largest continuous forest.

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### Promotions or Special Offers

As a campground within the National Park Service, 15 Mile Creek Campground typically operates on a fixed fee structure determined by the park system, rather than offering frequent commercial "promotions" or "special offers." The value lies in its accessible amenities and prime location at a competitive rate for what it offers.

However, campers can consider the following as benefits or potential ways to maximize value:

• Affordable Reservation Fees: At around $20 per site for up to 6 people, the cost per person is very reasonable, making it an economical option for families and small groups.
• Reservable Convenience: The ability to reserve a site up to six months in advance provides a significant convenience and peace of mind, especially for planning trips during popular seasons or holidays, effectively guaranteeing your spot.
• Seasonal Operating Periods: While not a promotion, understanding the peak season (April 15 - November 15) and non-peak season (November 16 - April 14) can help manage expectations regarding water availability and crowd levels. Fees may vary slightly between these seasons, so it's always good to check.
• National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Passes: For frequent visitors to federal lands, various passes (such as the America the Beautiful Pass) can offer value on entrance fees to other parks, though specific campsite fees are usually separate.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees and to make a reservation, always visit the official Recreation.gov website for Fifteen Mile Creek Campsite or the C&O Canal National Historical Park's website.

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### Contact Information

To plan your stay or get more information about 15 Mile Creek Campground, the primary contacts are through the National Park Service, which manages the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park.

Address: 11741 High Germany Rd, Little Orleans, MD 21766, USA

This address will guide you directly to the campground entrance.

For Reservations (Highly Recommended):

Website: Recreation.gov (search for "Fifteen Mile Creek Campsite")

Phone (Recreation.gov): 1-877-444-6777

For General Park Information (C&O Canal National Historical Park Headquarters):

Phone: (301) 739-4200

Contacting the park directly can provide valuable insights into current conditions, water availability, any temporary closures, or specific regulations for the campground.

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### Conclusion: Why 15 Mile Creek Campground is Suitable for Locals

For Maryland residents, 15 Mile Creek Campground offers a uniquely accessible and rewarding outdoor escape within their own state. Its location directly on the C&O Canal and adjacent to the Potomac River provides a rich array of recreational opportunities, making it perfect for active families, cycling enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful riverside retreat.

The availability of drive-in sites, reservable spots, and well-maintained restrooms elevates the camping experience, blending the charm of nature with essential comforts. Unlike more remote primitive sites, 15 Mile Creek allows for easier access with vehicles, including small RVs, making it suitable for a wider range of campers. The convenience of a boat ramp on-site is a huge plus for those eager to explore the Potomac, and the nearby amenities in Little Orleans add a touch of local flavor to your adventure.

Whether you're planning a challenging 40-mile bike ride on the C&O Canal starting from Cumberland, a weekend of fishing and paddling on the Potomac, or simply a tranquil family camping trip with beautiful views, 15 Mile Creek Campground is a prime destination. It represents an ideal blend of accessibility, amenities, and natural beauty, making it an excellent choice for Marylanders looking to connect with the great outdoors close to home.

15 Mile Creek Campground

11741 High Germany Rd, Little Orleans, MD 21766, USA