Looking across the Potomac from this campground, you’ll see the mouth of its namesake creek. Historically, Opequon Creek played an important role in pre-1800 America. The creek was navigable upstream for about 25 miles, so boats could come to within a few miles of the country’s then second largest inland city of Winchester. Flour produced in the valley was shipped downstream.

One of the valley’s most prominent farmers was Adam Stephen, who was once a brigadier general in the Continental army and champion for American independence. Unfortunately, he was court-martialed and dismissed from service for drunkenness and “unofficerlike behavior.” He bought land and founded the town of Martinsburg (named after a friend). He produced flour on his farm and built another home in Martinsburg.

The campground is one of the primitive hiker/biker stops along the Canal. You can find a water source, picnic table, portable toilet and grill. It’s free for overnight stays.

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.