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.
Centrally located along the C&O Canal, Williamsport, Maryland is a thriving small town and bustling area for locals and tourists alike. It also has a rich history. Learn more.
Centrally located along the C&O Canal, Williamsport, Maryland is a thriving small town and bustling area for locals and tourists alike. It also has a rich history. The town’s location first gained importance as the intersection of the Potomac River and an early Native American trade route. Thomas Cresap, an early American pioneer, built a spring house in the area in 1692, and this structure is thought to be the oldest existing building in Washington County. Following the American Revolution, General Otho Holland Williams settled in the area and established Williams Port. Soon afterward, General George Washington considered the town as a possible location for our nation’s capital. The C&O Canal came to Williamsport in 1834, and the town became a busy port and commercial center.
As a border town, Williamsport saw much action during the American Civil War. Flooding of both river and canal was a major hindrance to General Robert E. Lee’s army as it retreated from Gettysburg. Later, Union Colonel Abner Doubleday built a breastwork in the town on what is now known as Doubleday’s Hill.
Today, Williamsport’s rich history combines with popular shops and restaurants, friendly residents, and the C&O Canal towpath to make the town a pleasant stop for many.
Download brochure: C&O Canal Trail to History: Shepherdstown, Sharpsburg, Williamsport
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 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.