Evitts Creek Campsite

For those in Maryland seeking an authentic and unadulterated outdoor experience, Evitts Creek Campsite presents an ideal destination. Tucked away along the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath in Cumberland, this site offers a genuine primitive camping experience, perfect for hikers and bikers looking to connect with nature on their journey. It's a place where the simplicity of the outdoors takes center stage, inviting visitors to unwind and embrace the tranquility of Western Maryland's landscapes.

Evitts Creek Campsite is specifically designed to cater to those traversing the C&O Canal by foot or bicycle, providing essential amenities in a no-frills setting. This focus on self-sufficiency and minimalist camping ensures a peaceful environment that truly reflects the spirit of the C&O Canal National Historical Park. Whether you're embarking on a multi-day cycling tour or a challenging hike along the towpath, this campsite offers a welcoming and convenient stop to rest and recharge.

The charm of Evitts Creek Campsite lies in its rustic appeal. While you might hear the occasional distant train – a subtle reminder of nearby civilization – many visitors find that the overwhelming beauty of the natural surroundings easily overshadows any ambient noise. It's an opportunity to truly disconnect from the everyday grind and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Maryland wilderness. The well-maintained grounds offer ample space for setting up a tent or even stringing up a hammock for a peaceful night under the stars.

This campsite embodies the "leave no trace" philosophy, encouraging campers to be mindful of their impact on the environment and help preserve its pristine condition. For local Marylanders, Evitts Creek Campsite is a readily accessible natural escape. It’s a chance to spend a night or two experiencing the quiet solitude of the canal, enjoying a campfire, and waking up to the sounds of nature, all within a reasonable distance from many parts of the state. It’s a testament to the diverse outdoor recreational opportunities available right here in Maryland.

The experience at Evitts Creek is about embracing the elements and finding comfort in simplicity. It's not about luxury, but about the fundamental joy of outdoor living. This balance of providing basic necessities while maintaining a wild, untamed feel is what makes hiker-biker sites like Evitts Creek so appealing to outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the quiet moments and the natural beauty that only a primitive campsite can offer.

Evitts Creek Campsite is prominently located at Canal Milepost 180.1, making it one of the last hiker-biker campsites along the C&O Canal Towpath before reaching the terminus in Cumberland, Maryland. The official address for the vicinity is Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath, Cumberland, MD 21502, USA. However, it is crucial to understand that this is a remote campsite, and direct vehicular access to the campsite itself is not available.

Access to Evitts Creek Campsite is exclusively by foot or bicycle via the C&O Canal Towpath. This makes it an ideal and very common stopping point for those completing or beginning their journeys along the 184.5-mile historic pathway that runs between Washington, D.C., and Cumberland. The closest vehicular access point is approximately 0.7 miles upstream from the campsite, providing a convenient drop-off or pick-up point for those coordinating their trip.

For Maryland residents, particularly those in Western Maryland, Evitts Creek Campsite is a highly accessible option for a quick overnight adventure or as part of a longer exploration of the C&O Canal. Its proximity to Cumberland offers the convenience of nearby town services, though campers should still come prepared with all necessary supplies for their stay at the primitive site. The well-established nature of the C&O Canal Towpath ensures a relatively smooth journey to the campsite, making it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts planning their trips.

The fact that it’s a hiker-biker specific site means you won’t find the noise or congestion associated with drive-in campgrounds. This contributes significantly to the peaceful and secluded atmosphere that many seek in a natural setting. Before any trip, it’s always recommended to check the current conditions of the C&O Canal Towpath and any alerts from the National Park Service to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

• Chemical Toilet (Porta Potty): Each campsite includes a chemical toilet for basic sanitation needs.

• Water Pump: A water pump is typically available for campers. However, it's important to note that the water is generally considered non-potable at hiker-biker campsites. Visitors are strongly advised to filter, chemically treat, or boil the water before consumption for their safety. Water pumps are typically turned off seasonally, usually from mid-November to mid-April, due to freezing temperatures.

• Picnic Table: Each designated site is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, and other camp activities.

• Grill/Fire Ring: A grill or fire ring is provided at each site, allowing for cooking over an open flame and enjoying campfires, subject to local fire regulations and current burn bans.

• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Evitts Creek Campsite operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are required or accepted. This ensures equitable access for all towpath travelers.

• No Fee for Use: There is no charge for utilizing the hiker-biker campsites along the C&O Canal, making it a highly economical option for outdoor recreation.

• One-Night Stay Limit: Stays at hiker-biker campsites are generally limited to one night per site, per trip, to ensure that these valuable resources remain available for all travelers along the towpath.

• Historic C&O Canal Towpath Access: Directly located on the C&O Canal Towpath, offering immediate access to this historic recreational trail for hiking and biking.

• Primitive Camping: Provides a genuine, rustic camping experience, allowing visitors to disconnect and enjoy the simplicity of nature.

• Hiker-Biker Specific: Exclusively caters to those traveling by foot or bicycle, fostering a unique and shared outdoor community.

• Scenic Surroundings: Nestled within the beautiful natural landscapes of Western Maryland, offering picturesque views and a peaceful environment.

• Proximity to Cumberland: Located close to Cumberland, MD, providing convenient access to town amenities and services for resupply or emergencies.

• Wildlife Observation: The natural setting offers opportunities to observe local wildlife, enhancing the outdoor adventure.

• Aqueduct Nearby: Evitts Creek Aqueduct is a notable historical and engineering marvel located near the campsite, offering an interesting point of interest for visitors.

• Hammock-Friendly Spots: Reviewers note that the site offers good spots for setting up hammocks, adding to the versatile camping options.

As a primitive hiker-biker campsite within the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Evitts Creek Campsite is provided as a free resource to the public by the National Park Service. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and therefore, no specific promotions, discounts, or special offers are available. The primary "offer" is the opportunity to experience a cost-free overnight stay in a beautiful and historically significant natural setting.

Visitors should come prepared with all their own supplies, including any necessary water purification methods if they plan to use the non-potable well water. The absence of a fee makes these sites incredibly valuable for budget-conscious travelers and those undertaking long-distance treks along the C&O Canal.

For detailed information about Evitts Creek Campsite and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, it is best to contact the park directly.

Address: Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath, Cumberland, MD 21502, USA

General Park Information Phone: (301) 739-4200

While Evitts Creek Campsite does not have a direct phone line or dedicated staff on site, the National Park Service's main contact number for the C&O Canal can provide current conditions, water availability updates, and any other relevant alerts for campers. You can also visit the official C&O Canal National Historical Park website for comprehensive planning resources.

Evitts Creek Campsite is an exceptional outdoor resource for Maryland locals, offering a convenient and genuine escape into nature. Situated strategically on the C&O Canal Towpath near Cumberland, it’s easily accessible for a weekend adventure or as part of a longer journey along this historic route. For Marylanders, this campsite provides a readily available opportunity to disconnect from the daily grind and immerse themselves in a primitive camping experience, without the need for extensive travel or costly reservations.

The charm of Evitts Creek lies in its simplicity and raw natural beauty. It's not about luxury, but about embracing the elements – pitching a tent, gathering around a campfire (when permitted), and enjoying the tranquility of the canal. For those who love hiking and biking, this site is a perfect overnight stop, offering essential amenities like a chemical toilet, water pump (seasonal and non-potable), picnic table, and grill. This focus on fundamental provisions ensures a truly authentic outdoor experience that encourages self-reliance and a deeper appreciation for the environment.

Despite the occasional distant train, the overwhelming feedback highlights the beauty of the location, where the peaceful natural surroundings quickly make any minor distractions fade. It’s an ideal spot for individuals or small groups looking for solitude, a quiet night under the stars, or a strategic rest point during a multi-day towpath expedition. For Maryland families and outdoor enthusiasts, Evitts Creek Campsite offers a budget-friendly and enriching way to experience the state's rich history and diverse natural landscapes, fostering a deeper connection to the local environment and the unique recreational opportunities it provides.

Evitts Creek Campsite

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath, Cumberland, MD 21502, USA