Little Pool Campground

For Maryland’s intrepid hikers, long-distance cyclists, and outdoor adventurers who embrace the simplicity of primitive camping, Little Pool Campground in Hancock, MD, offers a unique and essential stop along the historic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath. This isn't your typical amenity-rich campground; instead, it provides a crucial, no-frills haven for those traversing one of Maryland's most iconic linear parks.

Little Pool Campground is a testament to the spirit of adventure that defines the C&O Canal. It's designed to support self-sufficient travelers who appreciate a free, open space to rest after a day of cycling or hiking. While it might require a bit more effort to set up a comfortable camp than other sites, its charm lies in its direct access to nature and its role as a vital link in the extensive C&O Canal National Historical Park camping network.

For Marylanders looking to truly disconnect and experience the raw beauty of the canal and the Potomac River, Little Pool offers an authentic primitive camping experience. It’s a site that rewards those who are prepared for basic amenities and who value a large, open area to pitch a tent and enjoy the sounds of the natural world, even with the occasional train passing by.

Little Pool Campground is located in Hancock, MD 21750, USA, specifically situated directly on the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath. Its exact position on the towpath makes it primarily accessible to "hiker-bikers," meaning those traveling by foot or bicycle along the C&O Canal. This is a crucial distinction for Marylanders considering this campsite, as vehicular access is typically not direct to the camping area.

For those planning a long-distance bike trip or multi-day hike along the C&O Canal, Little Pool Campground serves as a strategic overnight stop. It is positioned at Mile Marker 122.3 on the towpath, placing it approximately 20 miles east of the Sideling Hill Creek Aqueduct and around 15 miles west of the Big Pool Campground. Its location near Hancock, a small town in Western Maryland, means that while the campsite itself is primitive, basic services like food, water, and perhaps even lodging or bike repair shops can be found within reasonable proximity in the town.

Access to Hancock itself from other parts of Maryland is generally via Interstate 68 or US Route 40, leading to connections with local roads. However, once in Hancock, travelers bound for Little Pool Campground will need to transition to the towpath. This makes it an ideal spot for adventurers seeking an immersive experience along the canal, providing a genuine sense of being "on the trail." The campground's direct access to the Potomac River also offers pretty views, enhancing the natural appeal of its location.

Little Pool Campground, as part of the C&O Canal's free hiker-biker campsites, offers a very basic and primitive set of services designed for self-sufficient travelers. It's essential for campers to understand these limitations to ensure a comfortable and prepared stay.

• Free Camping: This is one of the key services – Little Pool Campground is a free campsite, requiring no reservations or fees. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Tent Camping: The site is designed for tent camping. While hammock users may need to "search around a bit" for suitable trees, there is "plenty of room for a lot of campers."
• Non-Potable Water Pump: A hand pump is available for water, but it's important to note that the water is explicitly "non-potable." This means it requires treatment (filtering, boiling, or chemical purification) before consumption. One review mentioned the pump worked well and could be "converted simply to potable water without much effort" (implying treatment).
• Vault Toilets: Basic vault toilets (outhouses) are provided for sanitation. These are rustic and do not have flushing water.
• Picnic Tables: Each site typically includes a picnic table for meal preparation and dining.
• Fire Rings: Designated fire rings are available for campfires. However, a review noted there isn't "plenty of firewood to forage," suggesting campers may need to bring their own or purchase it nearby in Hancock.
• Direct Towpath Access: The campground is located directly on the C&O Canal Towpath, providing immediate access for hikers and bikers to continue their journey.
• River Access and Views: There is "good access to the river at the site and the views are pretty nice," allowing campers to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Potomac River.

Campers are expected to practice "Leave No Trace" principles, packing out all trash and minimizing their impact on the environment. There are no showers, electricity, or trash cans provided at these primitive sites.

Despite its primitive nature, Little Pool Campground offers several distinct features that make it a notable stop for C&O Canal adventurers:

• Free Access and No Reservations: As a free, first-come, first-served hiker-biker campsite, it provides an invaluable resource for long-distance travelers on a budget or those who prefer spontaneity in their itinerary. This accessibility is a major highlight for the towpath community.
• Direct C&O Canal Towpath Location: Its placement directly on the towpath is paramount. This means immediate access to continuous miles of scenic trail for cycling and hiking, making it a perfectly situated overnight stop for multi-day excursions.
• Large, Open Camping Space: Unlike some cramped sites, Little Pool is described as a "large open space with a couple of large trees in the center" and having "plenty of room for a lot of campers." This ample space provides flexibility for setting up tents and a less crowded feel, even when other campers are present.
• Potomac River Access and Views: The campground offers "good access to the river at the site and the views are pretty nice." This provides opportunities to enjoy the river's beauty, possibly for fishing (with a valid license), or simply for serene contemplation.
• Essential Basic Amenities (Water Pump & Toilet): While primitive, the provision of a non-potable water pump and vault toilets fulfills the most fundamental needs for overnight camping, making it a viable resting point for self-sufficient adventurers. The working water pump is a critical feature.
• Strategic Stop on Long Bike Trips: For those embarking on ambitious cycling journeys along the C&O Canal, Little Pool Campground's location often falls at a convenient distance after a long day's ride (e.g., "after a 65-mile day"), providing a necessary place to rest and refuel.

It is important to note the specific characteristics mentioned by users, such as the potential for unlevel ground ("flat campsite... keep looking") and the presence of train noise ("silent train less evening... keep looking"), which are part of its authentic, primitive charm for some, and considerations for others.

As a free, primitive hiker/biker campsite maintained by the National Park Service along the C&O Canal National Historical Park, Little Pool Campground does not offer "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional commercial sense. Its primary "offer" is its accessibility as a no-cost overnight stop for those traveling the towpath.

However, the value it provides for Marylanders and other adventurers comes from:

• Cost-Free Accommodation: The most significant "special offer" is that there is no fee to camp at Little Pool Campground. This is a major benefit for budget-conscious travelers undertaking long-distance treks.
• "Leave No Trace" Philosophy: While not a monetary promotion, the expectation that campers adhere to "Leave No Trace" principles (packing out all trash, minimizing impact) ensures the site remains free and accessible for future generations. This is a form of shared benefit and sustainability.

For those seeking additional amenities or a different camping experience, other paid campgrounds (both private and state park-operated) exist near the C&O Canal, some of which may offer seasonal promotions or discounts. However, Little Pool's distinct appeal is its simplicity and its free access, making it a unique and invaluable resource for the self-sufficient outdoor enthusiast. It's truly a minimalist's dream when it comes to cost-effective overnight stays.

For general inquiries about the C&O Canal National Historical Park, which includes Little Pool Campground, or for more detailed information about park regulations and conditions, you can contact the park headquarters. Please remember that Little Pool Campground itself does not have on-site staff or direct reservation services due to its primitive, free nature.

Address: Hancock, MD 21750, USA (general location)

For park information, you can typically reach the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park headquarters at:

Phone: (301) 739-4200

Mobile Phone: +1 301-739-4200 (This number connects to the main park information line)

It is always advisable to check the official National Park Service website for the C&O Canal National Historical Park before your trip for the most up-to-date information on towpath conditions, water pump status, and any alerts that might affect your stay at primitive campsites like Little Pool.

For Maryland locals, especially those who are avid hikers, cyclists, or anyone embracing the challenge and simplicity of multi-day trips along the C&O Canal Towpath, Little Pool Campground is perfectly suitable and, indeed, an essential resource. Its unique characteristics align well with the adventurous spirit of self-reliant outdoor enthusiasts in the state.

Firstly, its location directly on the C&O Canal Towpath makes it an indispensable overnight stop. For Marylanders tackling sections or the entirety of this iconic trail, Little Pool offers a convenient and free place to rest after a long day's journey. This direct accessibility, primarily by foot or bike, underscores its purpose as a dedicated hiker/biker site.

Secondly, the "free" aspect is a significant draw. In a world where outdoor recreation can quickly become expensive, Little Pool provides a cost-effective solution for overnight accommodation, allowing more Marylanders to experience the canal without financial burden. This makes longer treks more feasible and accessible.

While primitive, the presence of a non-potable water pump and vault toilets fulfills crucial basic needs, demonstrating that the site is thoughtfully designed for its intended users. The large, open space provides ample room for tents, and the river access offers pleasant views and a refreshing connection to nature. For Marylanders who understand and appreciate "no-frills" camping, who are prepared to treat their water, and who can embrace the sounds of a nearby train as part of the authentic experience, Little Pool Campground offers a genuine, unadulterated outdoor adventure right in Western Maryland. It's a true gem for those seeking to challenge themselves and connect deeply with the state's natural and historical landscape.