You can now create your own itineraries to guide your C&O Canal exploration, or you can copy one of ours! Learn more about Itineraries.
Located near one of the most remote sections in the C&O Canal National Historical Park, Little Orleans is a haven for through cyclists, adventurous hikers and anyone who enjoys taking the scenic route to get to where they’re going. It is home to many hiker/biker campgrounds and Bill’s Place, a legendary local establishment and stopping point for anyone passing through. Learn more.
Located near one of the most remote sections in the C&O Canal National Historical Park, Little Orleans is a haven for through cyclists, adventurous hikers and anyone who enjoys taking the scenic route to get to where they’re going. It is home to many hiker/biker campgrounds and Bill’s Place, a legendary local establishment and stopping point for anyone passing through.
Nearing the end of the Canal’s construction in the 1830s, Little Orleans was the temporary home of German and Irish workers who toiled at their physically demanding jobs in difficult conditions. Rumors of future labor reductions by the C&O Canal Company as a result of severe financial problems, combined with workers’ anger at their working and living conditions, led to some of the most intense labor rioting during the entire construction of the Canal.
Today the area is quiet, peaceful, and a wonderfully remote place to get away from it all. Whether you’re traveling by river, towpath, or the winding paved road, take some time to stop and enjoy this unique section of the Park.
We know that to preserve something, you need to experience it, so we are proud to provide support to the C&O National Historical Park as their official philanthropic partner.
Please visit the National Park Service website for the following information:
For more information and nearby places to stay or grab a bite to eat, please visit our local tourism partners:
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There has been a lapse in appropriations, and a shutdown of the federal government is currently in effect. Much of the C&O Canal National Historical Park remains open to the public, however, the National Park Service is not able to operate as normal. Visitor services, including park visitor centers and other NPS-staffed facilities, will not be available. Inquiries to the National Park Service will not be received or responded to until the shutdown ends.
The C&O Canal Trust’s staff are currently working remotely. Scheduled Trust events and Canal Quarters reservations will continue as scheduled. While a federal government shutdown is in effect, visitors should not expect services typically provided by the National Park Service to be available. All visitors are urged to practice safety in the park and plan ahead. Be a good park steward by recreating responsibly and practicing Leave No Trace principles, respecting cultural and natural resources.
Information regarding the Department of Interior’s Operations in the Absence of Appropriations can be found here: https://www.doi.gov/shutdown.
When federal funding is restored, we look forward to continuing to work with our park partner to ensure the C&O Canal remains beautiful, safe, and welcoming for visitors today and for future generations. Love the Park? Help the Trust! Consider making a donation. Your support directly helps fund beautification, conservation, education, and preservation initiatives in the park.