Unlike many of the hiker/biker campsites along the Canal, Big Woods campsite affords overnight visitors some measure of privacy. In fact, it’s not even visible from the towpath.  A sign marks a path to the site. The tradeoff to the privacy is a quarter mile hike downstream to your water source. Big Woods does provide other campsite amenities—portable toilet, picnic table, and a grill.

A half mile upstream from Big Woods Campsite is Bear Cave. You can’t miss it.  It’s right beside the Canal bed, often with a stream flowing from the entrance.

Please Note: Potable water may not be available at each campsite. Water is treated with iodine. Please plan to have water purification tablets with you. Water is turned off from November 15 to April 15 each year.

Please visit the C&O Canal National Historical Park’s website for detailed camping information, or you can call 301-739-4200 with any questions. Site reservations can be made via the Recreation.gov website.