Paw Paw Tunnel Campground

paw paw tunnel campground

For Maryland locals seeking a unique blend of history, outdoor adventure, and rustic charm, Paw Paw Tunnel Campground offers an unparalleled experience within the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park in Oldtown, MD. Unlike a sprawling commercial resort, this campground provides a primitive yet well-appointed setting, perfectly designed for those who appreciate the simpler side of camping and the rich tapestry of Maryland's past. Nestled directly on the historic C&O Canal Towpath, the campground serves as an ideal base for exploring one of the state's most iconic natural and historical treasures.

Paw Paw Tunnel Campground is a reservable tent-only campsite at Mile 156 of the C&O Canal Towpath, making it a crucial stop for hikers, bikers, and history enthusiasts embarking on multi-day journeys or even just a serene weekend getaway. While considered "primitive," it offers essential amenities that enhance comfort without detracting from the natural beauty of the surroundings. Reviews consistently praise its cleanliness and the provision of treated well water and clean outhouses, emphasizing its dedication to fundamental camper needs. The campground's proximity to the engineering marvel of the Paw Paw Tunnel itself is a major draw, inviting exploration and offering cool respite. For Marylanders looking to disconnect, immerse themselves in nature, and delve into the state's storied past, Paw Paw Tunnel Campground provides a truly authentic and memorable outdoor escape.

Paw Paw Tunnel Campground is uniquely situated at Mile 156 of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath in Oldtown, MD 21555, USA. This specific location places it directly on one of Maryland's most celebrated linear parks, offering a distinct advantage for outdoor enthusiasts. The campground is nestled in the scenic Western Maryland mountains, adjacent to the vast Green Ridge State Forest, providing a blend of historical context and natural beauty.

Accessibility to Paw Paw Tunnel Campground is a key aspect for Maryland locals. Unlike many C&O Canal hiker-biker sites, this campground offers drive-in access, which is a significant convenience. Visitors can reach the campground by car by following MD State Route 51 South from Cumberland, MD, for approximately 24 miles; the campground will be directly off MD-51 on the left side of the road. This direct vehicle access makes it much easier for campers to bring their gear and set up camp, making it suitable for a wider range of outdoor enthusiasts, not just those strictly traveling by foot or bike on the towpath. However, a local review mentions "lots of car noise from a highway," indicating that while convenient, this accessibility also means the sounds of traffic may be present.

Despite the road noise, the campground's strategic position offers unparalleled access to the main attractions of the area. It is just a short distance from the impressive Paw Paw Tunnel itself (at Mile 155.2), a nearly 6/10 of a mile long engineering marvel that offers a unique walk-through experience (be sure to bring a flashlight!). The campground also provides direct entry to the C&O Canal Towpath for miles of hiking and biking along the Potomac River. For Marylanders, this location is ideal for day trips or longer stays that combine exploring the historic canal, enjoying the Potomac River (with a boat ramp available across the river in Paw Paw, WV), and venturing into the nearby Green Ridge State Forest for additional outdoor adventures. The balance of drivable access and immediate immersion in nature makes Paw Paw Tunnel Campground a highly suitable choice for locals.

Paw Paw Tunnel Campground, while primitive in nature, provides essential services designed to offer a comfortable and convenient camping experience for its visitors, particularly those exploring the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park.

• Reservable Tent Campsites: Unlike many C&O Canal hiker-biker sites, Paw Paw Tunnel Campground offers reservable sites. This is a significant advantage for campers who prefer to plan ahead and secure their spot, ensuring availability, especially during peak seasons. There are 10 individual tent-only campsites available for reservation.

• Picnic Table at Each Site: Each of the 10 campsites is equipped with a sturdy picnic table, providing a convenient and clean surface for meal preparation, dining, and organizing gear.

• Fire Ring with Grill Grate: Every campsite includes a designated fire ring, complete with a grill grate. This allows campers to enjoy traditional campfires for warmth and ambiance, as well as providing a means for outdoor cooking. Firewood is not sold on-site, so campers should plan to bring their own or purchase it nearby.

• Portable Toilets (Outhouses): Clean, portable toilets (also known as "outhouses" or "jiffy johns") are available year-round at the campground. Reviews confirm these facilities are well-maintained, which is a key comfort in a primitive setting.

• Hand Pump Water (Seasonal Potable Water): A hand pump provides water for campers. This water is generally potable and treated with iodine, but the National Park Service advises boiling or treating it further as a general precaution, especially for those with iodine allergies or thyroid conditions. Crucially, the water is turned off seasonally, typically from November 1st to April 15th each year. Campers visiting during the non-peak season must bring all their own water.

• Vehicle Access (Drive-In): A notable service for a C&O Canal campground, Paw Paw Tunnel Campground offers drive-in access to the campsites. This allows campers to bring more gear than would be possible for strictly hiker-biker sites, making it accessible to a wider range of visitors. Parking is available near the campsites.

• Maximum Capacity per Site: Each single campsite can accommodate up to eight people, offering ample space for families or small groups. Larger groups may reserve adjacent sites.

While showers, electric hookups, and large commercial facilities are not available, the services provided at Paw Paw Tunnel Campground are thoughtfully chosen to support a comfortable and authentic primitive camping experience within a National Historical Park setting.

• Proximity to the Historic Paw Paw Tunnel: The campground's most prominent feature is its direct proximity to the famous Paw Paw Tunnel (Mile 155.2 on the C&O Canal Towpath). This incredible 3,118-foot long engineering marvel, carved through the mountain, is a must-see attraction. Visitors can walk through its dark, cool interior (a flashlight is essential!) and experience a unique piece of American history. The tunnel also allows travelers to bypass six miles of challenging "Paw Paw Bends" along the Potomac River.

• Direct C&O Canal Towpath Access: Situated at Mile 156 of the C&O Canal Towpath, the campground offers immediate and convenient access for hikers and bikers looking to explore this historic 184.5-mile linear park. Miles of flat, scenic trail are available for walking, cycling, and enjoying the riverside views. Although one review mentions a towpath closure further on, the immediate area around the tunnel and campground remains accessible and offers ample exploration.

• Reservable Campsites: Unlike many other hiker-biker sites on the C&O Canal that are first-come, first-served, Paw Paw Tunnel Campground allows for reservations through Recreation.gov. This feature is a significant highlight, as it provides peace of mind for campers who want to plan their trip in advance and ensure a guaranteed spot, especially during busier times.

• Drive-In Accessibility: Another key distinction is its drive-in access. This makes it a highly convenient option for families or groups with more gear, as vehicles can reach the campsites directly. This feature expands its appeal beyond just those undertaking long-distance treks on the towpath.

• Primitive Yet Equipped Sites: While "primitive," the campsites are well-equipped with essential amenities. Each of the 10 single sites includes a picnic table, a fire ring with a grill grate, and access to clean portable toilets and seasonal hand-pumped water. This balance provides a rustic experience without sacrificing basic comforts.

• Nature and Wildlife: The campground is nestled in the mountains of Western Maryland, adjacent to Green Ridge State Forest, offering a beautiful natural setting. Campers can enjoy the sounds of the Potomac River, observe local wildlife, and appreciate the tranquil forest environment, particularly beautiful during autumn.

These features collectively make Paw Paw Tunnel Campground a compelling choice for Marylanders looking for an accessible, historically rich, and genuinely outdoors-focused camping experience.

As Paw Paw Tunnel Campground is a public campground managed by the National Park Service (NPS) within the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, it generally does not offer traditional commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a private campground might (e.g., seasonal discounts, loyalty programs, or package deals).

However, the "offers" that make this campground appealing for Maryland locals are inherent in its operational structure and designation as a National Park Service facility:

• Affordable Fees: While not free like some of the hiker-biker sites, the fees for reservable campsites at Paw Paw Tunnel Campground are typically very modest compared to private campgrounds. This makes it an incredibly budget-friendly option for families and individuals looking for a quality camping experience within a national park setting.

• Reservation System via Recreation.gov: The ability to reserve a campsite in advance through Recreation.gov (the federal government's centralized booking platform) is a significant "offer." This provides certainty and peace of mind, especially during peak seasons when popular sites can fill up quickly. For locals planning a trip, this eliminates the risk of arriving to a full campground.

• Access to a National Park: The very fact that the campground is located within a National Historical Park means visitors gain access to a vast, protected natural and historical resource. This includes the Towpath, the Paw Paw Tunnel itself, and the surrounding natural beauty, all maintained and preserved by the NPS for public enjoyment.

• Inclusion of Basic Amenities: For the nominal fee, campers receive a designated site with a picnic table, fire ring with grill, access to potable hand-pump water (seasonally available), and portable toilets. These essential amenities are included, providing a baseline of comfort for a primitive camping experience without hidden costs for basic necessities.

It is important for Maryland locals to consult the Recreation.gov website directly for Paw Paw Tunnel Campground to see the exact current fees, availability, and to make reservations. Also, be mindful of any alerts regarding towpath closures or water availability, as conditions can change. While you won't find coupon codes, the inherent value of a well-maintained, reservable campsite in such a significant historical and natural setting is a substantial "offer" in itself.

As Paw Paw Tunnel Campground is part of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park and reservations are managed through a federal system, it does not have a direct, dedicated phone number for the campground itself. Instead, inquiries and reservations are handled through the National Park Service's main channels.

To make reservations for Paw Paw Tunnel Campground, or for detailed information, Maryland locals should use the following primary resource:

Online Reservations: Recreation.gov

You will need to search for "Paw Paw Tunnel Campground, Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park" on the Recreation.gov website. This is the official platform for booking campsites here.

For general inquiries about the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, including information about the campground, towpath conditions, or facilities, you can contact the park headquarters or visitor centers:

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park Headquarters / Main Information Line:

Phone: 301-739-4200 (This number typically connects to the Cumberland Visitor Center or the main park information line).

Address for general area: Oldtown, MD 21555, USA (The physical address provided is a general location for the area, with the campground specifically at Mile 156 on the towpath).

It is highly recommended to visit the official National Park Service website for the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park (NPS.gov/choh) for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information regarding the campground, including its operating season for water, any alerts or closures concerning the Paw Paw Tunnel or the Towpath, and detailed rules and regulations. Using these official channels will ensure you have the most accurate information for planning your trip.

For Maryland locals, Paw Paw Tunnel Campground offers a remarkably suitable and enriching outdoor experience, blending historical significance with natural beauty in a highly accessible format. Its prime location directly on the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath, specifically at Mile 156, makes it an ideal base for exploring one of our state's most iconic linear parks. This direct access means Virginians can easily embark on long bike rides or invigorating hikes along the canal, immersing themselves in the tranquil scenery and rich history without the need for extensive travel or complicated logistics.

The distinct advantage of Paw Paw Tunnel Campground for locals is its drive-in accessibility combined with the ability to reserve a site. Unlike many more remote hiker-biker sites on the C&O Canal, you can drive directly to Paw Paw Tunnel Campground, making it convenient for families or those with more gear. The ability to reserve a spot in advance through Recreation.gov removes the uncertainty of first-come, first-served camping, allowing Marylanders to confidently plan their trips, especially during peak seasons when spontaneous spots can be hard to find. This foresight and convenience are invaluable for a stress-free getaway.

Furthermore, the campground's proximity to the historic Paw Paw Tunnel itself is a major draw. This engineering marvel offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century innovation, providing a unique and memorable exploration opportunity right outside your tent. Beyond the tunnel, the surrounding Western Maryland mountains and the adjacent Green Ridge State Forest offer additional opportunities for outdoor recreation, from fishing in the Potomac to more extensive hiking. While one review notes "lots of car noise from a highway," the benefits of accessibility and being immersed in such a significant historical and natural setting often outweigh this minor drawback for those seeking true outdoor adventure.

In essence, Paw Paw Tunnel Campground provides a well-balanced, authentic, and historically rich camping experience that is both attainable and deeply rewarding for Maryland residents. It's a place where you can disconnect from daily routines, reconnect with nature and history, and create lasting memories, all within the beautiful confines of our own state.

Paw Paw Tunnel Campground

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath, Oldtown, MD 21555, USA