About Point of Rocks, Maryland
Point of Rocks has been a transportation crossroads for centuries, but a fierce legal battle between the B&O Railroad and the C&O Canal in the 1830s forced the two rivals to share the narrow passage west of town. The nineteenth century canal era brought hotels, mills, and even an ice cream shop to this small Maryland town, but after a devastating flood and the canal’s closure, Point of Rocks quieted considerably.
Today the town retains its small-country charm, with the Point of Rocks Train Station as the jewel of the townscape — one of the most photographed in America and still in active use. Visitors can immerse themselves in the canal era by spending a night at Lockhouse 28, waking up steps from the same waterway that once fueled this community’s golden age.
Getting There
Parking Access
Point of Rocks is located directly on the C&O Canal National Historical Park. From the Point of Rocks Train Station on Canal Road, the towpath is just steps away. A small parking lot at the station is available for day and overnight use.
River Access
The Point of Rocks Boat Ramp is located just off Canal Road near the historic train station. This is a well-equipped access point with ample parking, a large ramp suitable for trailered boats and hand-carry craft, and vault toilets on site. The area is a popular put-in for multi-day river trips and is well known for smallmouth bass fishing.
Where to Stay
Point of Rocks is home to Lockhouse 28, the most remote of all the Canal Quarters properties. Built in 1837 at mile marker 48.9, the Lockhouse offers guests a quieter, more secluded experience and the chance to explore the countryside of Frederick County. It sleeps up to eight guests and is available year-round. Hiker/biker campsites are also available nearby along the towpath on a first-come, first-served basis.
Town Highlights You Don't Want to Miss:
For History Lovers:
Point of Rocks Train Station
Completed in 1876 and designed by renowned B&O architect E. Francis Baldwin, the Gothic Revival Point of Rocks Train Station is one of the most photographed railroad stations in America and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Point of Rocks Train Tunnel and Lockhouse 28
The B&O Railroad blasted a tunnel through the cliff after losing a right-of-way battle to the C&O Canal Company. Today, you can see the Point of Rocks Train Tunnel from the towpath, still in active use. For an immersive overnight experience, Lockhouse 28 puts you directly in the story.
For Outdoor Enthusiasts:
Point of Rocks Boat Ramp
Located at Mile 48.2 along the C&O Canal, the Point of Rocks Boat Ramp is one of the best-equipped launch points on the Maryland side of the Potomac River. Kayakers, canoeists, and motorboaters use it as a put-in for multi-day Potomac River trips, and it’s a well-known destination for smallmouth bass fishing. Keep an eye on the cliffs above the nearby tunnel — Peregrine Falcons nest there and are frequently spotted from the ramp area.
Monocacy Aqueduct
Take a bike ride to the largest aqueduct on the entire C&O Canal. From the Point of Rocks parking area at mile 48.2, the Monocacy Aqueduct is a 6-mile pedal east along the crushed limestone towpath to reach this 516-foot, seven-arch stone bridge, completed in 1833 to carry canal boats across the Monocacy River. The out-and-back makes for a satisfying 12-mile ride with one of the most dramatic payoffs on this stretch of the canal.
Where to Eat & Drink:
Worked up an appetite on the towpath? Point of Rocks has a handful of local spots to refuel before you head back out.
Photos by Turner Photography, Rebecca White, Josh Bowers