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.
Stickpile Hill is another ridge that forces the Potomac River in its looping pattern along the southern edge of Green Ridge Forest State Forest. It is said that the ridge got its curious name from a local hobo who was killed and was buried under a pile of sticks. Learn more.
Stickpile Hill is another ridge that forces the Potomac River in its looping pattern along the southern edge of Green Ridge Forest State Forest. It is said that the ridge got its curious name from a local hobo who was killed and was buried under a pile of sticks. An unfortunate namesake!
When the Western Maryland Railroad expanded west from Hagerstown toward Cumberland, a tunnel through Stickpile Hill provided a much shorter alternative to following the river bend. The tunnel still exists, but its entrances can sometimes be a challenge to find.
The free overnight campsite provides a portable toilet, picnic table, grill/fire ring and water source.
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.
Camping Reservations
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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C&O Canal Explorer!
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 accessible to the public, however, the National Park Service is not able to operate as normal. Scheduled C&O Canal Trust events and Canal Quarters reservations will continue as scheduled.
Learn more about what the shutdown means for the C&O Canal National Historical Park.