Purslane Run Campsite

For Maryland locals who cherish outdoor adventure and seek a quieter, more personal connection with nature, the C&O Canal National Historical Park offers numerous primitive campsites. Among these, Purslane Run Campsite in Oldtown, MD, stands out as a particularly appealing option. If you're planning a multi-day journey along the historic C&O Canal Towpath or simply looking for a peaceful riverside retreat, this site promises a memorable and distinctly Maryland outdoor experience.

Purslane Run Campsite is a designated primitive "hiker-biker" campsite located at Mile Marker 157.4 along the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath in Oldtown, Maryland. Operated by the National Park Service as part of the C&O Canal National Historical Park, it is designed for those traveling along the towpath by foot or bicycle, offering a fundamental overnight stopping point. Reviews highlight its unique appeal, describing it as "Very nice campsite" and noting it's "a little more private than others because there is a short entry way from the trail to the campsite." This slight seclusion offers a valuable sense of tranquility for campers. A significant draw is the presence of "a trail to a private beach on the Potomac," providing exclusive access to the river's edge – a feature not common to all C&O Canal campsites. While rustic, it provides essential amenities. Campers should be aware of the natural elements; one review amusingly noted waking up to "many daddy longlegs on the outside of our tents," and another mentioned "giant spiders took over the bathroom," which are common occurrences in natural, unmanaged environments and are harmless, adding to the authentic outdoor experience. These insights paint a picture of a beautiful, quiet, and slightly more secluded primitive campsite ideal for those who appreciate nature's raw charm, even with its occasional eight-legged inhabitants.

Purslane Run Campsite is strategically located in Oldtown, MD 21555, USA, directly on the C&O Canal Towpath at mile marker 157.4. This positioning makes it highly accessible for the primary users it serves: hikers and bikers traversing the 184.5-mile historic canal trail. Oldtown, nestled in Allegany County, provides a quintessential Western Maryland setting, characterized by its natural beauty and rich historical context. While the campsite itself is a primitive, hike-in/bike-in only site, the broader Oldtown area is connected by Maryland Route 51, offering vehicular access to the general vicinity for provisions or emergency support. The campsite is situated half a mile upstream from where the Western Maryland Railroad crosses back over the Potomac into Maryland, and is named for a stream another half mile up the Canal. For resupply needs, the larger city of Cumberland, Maryland, which offers a full range of services including grocery stores, restaurants, and medical facilities, is approximately 10-15 miles away. This relatively short distance means that while campers can enjoy the solitude of the wilderness, essential conveniences are within reasonable reach for planning multi-day trips. The site's direct access to both the C&O Canal Towpath and the Potomac River, especially with its reported private beach, greatly enhances its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts in the Maryland region.

As a primitive hiker-biker campsite along the C&O Canal, Purslane Run Campsite offers essential, no-frills services aimed at providing a basic and comfortable overnight stay for those on the trail. These typically include:

• Tent Sites: Dedicated, flat areas for pitching tents, suitable for individuals or small groups.
• Picnic Tables: Each site usually comes equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for eating and preparing food.
• Fire Rings/Grills: A metal fire ring or grill is typically available at each site for campfires and cooking over an open flame. Campers should bring their own firewood or collect dead wood solely for use in campsite fires, not to be removed from the park.
• Chemical Toilets: Primitive restroom facilities, often in the form of portable or pit toilets, are provided for sanitation. One review noted "giant spiders" in the bathroom, a natural occurrence in outdoor settings.
• Water Source: A hand pump or well is generally available for water. However, it is crucial to note that this water is often non-potable and may be treated with iodine, or simply untreated. Campers are advised to bring water purification tablets, filters, or their own potable water. Water sources are typically turned off during colder months, usually from mid-November to mid-April.
• Private Beach Access: A unique feature mentioned in reviews is a trail leading to a private beach on the Potomac, offering exclusive river access.

Campers should arrive self-sufficient and prepared for a rustic experience, as there are no trash services (pack it in, pack it out) or electrical hookups.

Purslane Run Campsite's highlights are deeply rooted in its natural setting and its integration with the C&O Canal experience:

• Secluded Entryway: A key feature noted by campers is a "short entry way from the trail to the campsite," which provides a greater sense of privacy compared to some other canal campsites.
• Private Potomac River Beach Access: This is a standout highlight, offering campers a unique and direct pathway to the river, ideal for relaxation, contemplation, or perhaps even a refreshing dip on a hot day.
• Direct C&O Canal Towpath Access: For avid hikers and bikers, the immediate proximity to the historic towpath is paramount, allowing for seamless continuation of their journey.
• Natural Immersion: The campsite is nestled amidst the natural beauty of Western Maryland, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and enjoying the serene sounds of the forest and river.
• Rustic Charm: For those who appreciate primitive camping, the site offers a back-to-basics experience, free from the distractions of modern amenities, fostering a deeper connection with nature.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Generally quieter and less crowded than larger, more developed campgrounds, it's perfect for those seeking tranquility and a break from urban noise.
• Historical Context: Being part of the C&O Canal National Historical Park, campers are immersed in a landscape rich with American history.

These features combine to offer a truly enriching outdoor experience for the prepared Maryland adventurer.

As a primitive campsite within a National Historical Park, Purslane Run Campsite generally operates under National Park Service regulations and does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" like private campgrounds. These hiker-biker campsites along the C&O Canal are often available on a first-come, first-served basis and are free of charge for overnight use, though stays are usually limited to one night per site per trip to ensure availability for all trail users. Any costs would relate to the broader park entrance fees for certain areas of the C&O Canal National Historical Park, such as the Great Falls Tavern area, but not specifically for these primitive sites. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding any nominal fees (if applicable, though typically free), operating seasons, and specific regulations for Purslane Run Campsite, it is always best to consult the official Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park website or contact the park directly. They can provide details on water availability, any seasonal closures, and current park policies relevant to primitive camping.

For inquiries about Purslane Run Campsite, its amenities, or any regulations, it is best to contact the main office of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, as individual campsites do not have direct phone lines. The address for the general location is:

Address: Oldtown, MD 21555, USA

For detailed information, including current conditions, water status, and any alerts, you should contact the C&O Canal National Historical Park directly:

National Park Service Phone: (301) 739-4200 (This number typically serves as the primary contact for park information, including campsites like Purslane Run).

It's always recommended to check the official National Park Service website for the C&O Canal National Historical Park before your trip for the most current information and to ensure a smooth and prepared camping experience.

For Maryland locals, Purslane Run Campsite offers an ideal, accessible retreat into nature, perfectly blending outdoor recreation with the rich history of the C&O Canal. Its location in Oldtown means a relatively short drive for many residents across the state, minimizing travel time and maximizing valuable outdoor hours. What makes Purslane Run particularly suitable is its slightly more private setting, providing a valuable sense of solitude that can be hard to find in more popular camping areas. The added bonus of a trail leading to a private beach on the Potomac River is a unique highlight, offering exclusive access to a serene riverside experience for relaxation, fishing, or simply enjoying the views. For hikers, bikers, and anyone looking to truly disconnect, this primitive campsite provides all the essentials for a comfortable overnight stay without the distractions of modern amenities. It encourages a deeper appreciation for the natural environment, even with its charmingly rustic elements like harmless insects. By choosing Purslane Run, Marylanders can embrace an authentic, peaceful camping adventure, perfectly positioned to explore the C&O Canal's extensive trail system and the beautiful landscapes of Western Maryland, creating lasting memories right in their own state.