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.
As Seneca Creek splashes its way toward the Potomac, the stream basin is home to a wide range of attractions and outdoor activities. Seneca Creek State Park is a 6,300-acre preserve straddling 14 miles of the stream in Montgomery County, MD. Learn more.
As Seneca Creek splashes its way toward the Potomac, the stream basin is home to a wide range of attractions and outdoor activities. Seneca Creek State Park is a 6,300-acre preserve straddling 14 miles of the stream in Montgomery County, MD.
Trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding are all very popular in the park, including the Schaeffer Farm Trail area and the 16.5-mile Seneca Creek Greenway Trail which is a foot trail that extends the entire course of the creek.
Other destinations include the 90-acre Clopper Lake with picnicking, boat rentals and a playground; a 27-hole disc golf course; and hunting opportunities (State hunting regulations apply). A number of historical buildings have also been restored for the enjoyment of visitors, including a 19th century cabin, the Black Rock Mill, and the Seneca Schoolhouse.
Seneca Creek State Park is open 8 a.m. to sunset March to October and 10 a.m. to sunset from November through February. For more information, visit the website or call 301-924-2127.
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:
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.