McCoys Ferry Campground

For Maryland locals seeking a peaceful and accessible outdoor escape, McCoys Ferry Campground offers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rich history of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. Situated directly on the Potomac River, this drive-in campground provides a convenient base for exploring one of the state's most iconic recreational corridors.

McCoys Ferry Campground is a charming and well-regarded camping area nestled within the vast expanse of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park in Maryland. Unlike some of the more primitive hiker-biker sites along the C&O Canal Towpath, McCoys Ferry is a "drive-in" campground, making it accessible to a wider range of campers, including those with small RVs, travel trailers, and pop-ups, as well as tent campers. It's a place where the tranquility of nature meets the echoes of history, offering a blend of relaxation and exploration.

Located at Mile 110.4 of the C&O Canal Towpath, between the towns of Big Pool and Big Spring, McCoys Ferry Campground is designed to provide a comfortable yet rustic camping experience. It typically features individual campsites, each equipped with essential amenities for a pleasant stay. The campground is open year-round, allowing Marylanders to enjoy its beauty across all four seasons, from the vibrant greens of spring and summer to the stunning foliage of autumn and the quiet serenity of winter.

Reviews from past campers highlight the campground's picturesque location right on the Potomac River, offering scenic views and easy access to water-based activities. While it's noted for being a "basic campground" with no hookups for utilities, its well-maintained pit toilets and available hand-pumped water are appreciated. Campers often praise the spacious, flat sites and the convenient access to the C&O Canal Towpath for biking and hiking. Although train sounds from across the river are a consistent element of the experience, many find it adds to the unique ambiance rather than detracting from their stay, contributing to the campground's reputation as a cherished spot for those who appreciate natural beauty and a simple, direct connection with the outdoors.

McCoys Ferry Campground is ideally situated at Mile 110.4 on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath, near Clear Spring, MD 21722, USA. This location places it directly adjacent to the Potomac River, offering campers immediate access to the river's recreational opportunities and beautiful waterfront scenery. Its setting within the historic C&O Canal National Historical Park provides a unique backdrop of natural beauty intertwined with rich American history.

A significant advantage of McCoys Ferry Campground is its status as a "drive-in" campground, which distinguishes it from the more primitive hiker-biker sites along the towpath. This means campers can drive their vehicles, including very small fifth wheels, travel trailers, RVs, or pop-ups (up to a 20-foot maximum length), directly to their campsites. However, it's crucial for campers to be aware of the tunnel access, which limits vehicle height to 10 feet 3 inches. This accessibility makes it a convenient option for many Maryland locals who prefer the comfort of having their vehicle nearby.

The campground's location near Clear Spring and between Big Pool and Big Spring ensures reasonable proximity to local services and attractions. While the immediate area is natural and peaceful, larger towns are within a manageable driving distance for supplies or additional amenities. Furthermore, its position along the C&O Canal Towpath provides excellent accessibility for walking and biking, linking campers directly to miles of scenic trail for exploration. The campground is also notably close to Fort Frederick State Park, a significant historical site, adding another layer of recreational and educational opportunity. Despite the presence of train tracks across the river and occasional train noise, the overall accessibility and natural setting make McCoys Ferry Campground a well-placed and convenient destination for a diverse range of Maryland campers.

McCoys Ferry Campground, managed by the National Park Service within the C&O Canal National Historical Park, provides a foundational set of services designed to offer a comfortable and functional camping experience. While it maintains a rustic charm, it includes key amenities for both tent and small RV campers.

• Drive-In Campsites: The campground features 12 single drive-in campsites and one group site, allowing campers to park their vehicles directly at their designated spot.
• Picnic Tables: Each individual campsite is equipped with a picnic table for dining and food preparation.
• Fire Rings with Grills: Designated fire rings with attached grills are provided at each site, allowing for campfires and outdoor cooking.
• Protected Pit Toilets: Vault toilets (often referred to as protected pit toilets) are available within the campground for sanitation needs.
• Accessible Portable Toilets: In addition to the pit toilets, accessible portable toilets may also be available.
• Potable Hand Pump Water (Seasonal): A hand-pumped water source is available, typically from April 15 to November 1. This water is potable, meaning it is safe for drinking, though it's always wise to be prepared with additional water or purification methods.
• Boat Ramp: The campground offers a boat ramp, providing easy access to the Potomac River for kayakers, canoers, and fishermen.
• Adjacent Parking Lot: For vehicles with trailers or for overflow, an adjacent parking lot is available.
• Reservations Available: Unlike the hiker-biker sites, McCoys Ferry Campground allows for reservations via Recreation.gov, offering a more secure booking process, though it can also operate on a first-come, first-served basis if not reserved.
• Year-Round Operation: The campground is open every day, 24 hours, allowing for camping throughout the year, though water is seasonal.

It is important to note that the campground has no electric hookups, running water at individual sites, or dump stations, emphasizing its semi-primitive nature. Campers should plan accordingly for their power and sanitation needs beyond the basic provided services.

McCoys Ferry Campground stands out as a desirable camping destination for Maryland locals due to several key features and highlights that enhance the outdoor experience.

• Riverside Location on the Potomac: Its direct adjacency to the Potomac River is a major draw, offering beautiful views, opportunities for fishing (with a Maryland Fishing License for those 16 or older), and direct access for boating via the on-site boat ramp.
• Drive-In Accessibility: Unlike more primitive sites, the ability to drive directly to campsites (with vehicle height limits) makes it convenient for campers with more gear or small RVs/trailers, blending accessibility with a natural setting.
• Proximity to C&O Canal Towpath: Located directly on the C&O Canal Towpath at Mile 110.4, it offers immediate access for hiking and biking along this historic and scenic trail.
• Family and Group Friendly: With 12 single drive-in campsites accommodating up to eight people each, and a group site for up to 30 people, it's suitable for various sizes of gatherings.
• Nearby Historic Attractions: The campground is close to Fort Frederick State Park, a rare pre-Revolutionary stone fort from the French & Indian War, offering living history programming during summer weekends.
• Potable Water (Seasonal): The availability of a hand-pumped potable water source (seasonal) is a significant convenience for campers, as not all C&O Canal campsites offer this.
• Basic but Well-Maintained Facilities: Campers appreciate the clean pit toilets/porta-potties, picnic tables, and fire rings with grills that are typically well-maintained.
• Year-Round Access: The campground is open year-round, allowing campers to enjoy the distinct beauty of each season in Western Maryland.
• Scenic Beauty: Tucked in the mountains of Western Maryland, the natural beauty is abundant throughout the year, particularly during autumn when the fall foliage is spectacular.

While the presence of trains across the river can lead to some noise, many campers find the overall serene and convenient features of McCoys Ferry Campground to be highly enjoyable, making it a recurring favorite for a diverse group of outdoor enthusiasts.

As a campground managed by the National Park Service within the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, McCoys Ferry Campground operates under a fee structure rather than offering traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. However, the pricing and reservation system provide clear value and accessibility.

• Affordable Nightly Rates: The fees for individual campsites are quite reasonable:
  • Peak Season (April 15 - November 15): $20 per night.
  • Non-Peak Season (November 16 - April 14): $10 per night.
• Affordable Group Site Rates: For larger gatherings, the group site also offers economical pricing:
  • Peak Season: $40 per night.
  • Non-Peak Season: $20 per night.
• Online Reservation Convenience: The ability to reserve sites in advance via Recreation.gov (up to 6 months ahead) is a significant "perk" for those who prefer planned trips and guaranteed spots, especially during popular seasons or holidays. This reduces the uncertainty of first-come, first-served sites.
• Year-Round Access: The campground's year-round operation is a continuous "offer," allowing campers to enjoy the park in all seasons, each with its unique charm and potentially lower prices in the non-peak months.

There are typically no discounts for military, seniors, or other affiliations directly from the campground, as it is part of a federal park system with a set fee schedule. Any federal pass benefits would apply to park entrance fees, not necessarily to campground fees.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, reservation policies, and any potential changes, campers should always refer to the official National Park Service website for the C&O Canal National Historical Park or check Recreation.gov directly when planning their visit to McCoys Ferry Campground.

For Maryland locals planning a camping trip to McCoys Ferry Campground, it's important to direct inquiries to the appropriate channels within the National Park Service, which manages the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. There isn't a direct phone number specifically for McCoys Ferry Campground itself, but rather for the park's general information.

Address: The physical location of the campground is at Mile 110.4 on the C&O Canal Towpath, near Clear Spring, MD 21722, USA. While this is the site's geographical address, it is not a mailing address for direct correspondence.

For general information about McCoys Ferry Campground, including current conditions, reservation details, water availability, and park regulations, you should contact the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park:

General Park Information Phone: (301) 739-4200

Booking Reservations: Reservations for campsites at McCoys Ferry Campground are made exclusively through Recreation.gov. You can visit their website directly and search for "McCoys Ferry Campground" to check availability and book your site.

It's always recommended to check the official National Park Service website for the C&O Canal National Historical Park (nps.gov/choh) for the most comprehensive and up-to-date information, including any alerts or changes in operating conditions, before your visit.

For Maryland locals, McCoys Ferry Campground presents an exceptionally suitable and appealing option for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Its blend of accessible drive-in sites, direct river frontage, and integration into the historic C&O Canal National Historical Park makes it a versatile destination for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're a family looking for a weekend getaway, an avid kayaker seeking easy river access, or a history buff eager to explore the C&O Canal, McCoys Ferry offers a unique and enriching experience close to home.

The convenience of being a drive-in campground means that campers can easily bring their gear, making it less physically demanding than the primitive hiker-biker sites, yet it still provides that authentic connection with nature. The affordable nightly rates, especially during the non-peak season, offer a budget-friendly escape, making outdoor adventures more accessible to more Marylanders. Being able to reserve sites in advance via Recreation.gov also takes the guesswork out of finding a spot, ensuring a smoother planning process for local families and groups.

Beyond the practicalities, McCoys Ferry Campground immerses visitors in Maryland's natural and historical heritage. The direct access to the Potomac River provides endless opportunities for water activities, while the adjacent C&O Canal Towpath invites miles of scenic hiking and biking. The proximity to Fort Frederick State Park adds an educational dimension, allowing campers to step back in time and learn about colonial history. While the sounds of trains are a part of the landscape, they contribute to the rustic charm for many. Ultimately, McCoys Ferry Campground is an ideal spot for Maryland locals seeking an accessible, scenic, and historically rich camping experience that truly embodies the spirit of outdoor adventure in the Old Line State.