Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite
03 reviewsBig Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fee or reservation required for the Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (HBO) Campsite.
About this campground
Nestled at Mile 82.7 along the historic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal towpath, Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight Campsite serves as a welcome respite for adventurous souls traversing this storied waterway. This thoughtfully designed campground caters exclusively to hikers and cyclists exploring the canal's scenic route, offering essential amenities in a pristine natural setting. Best of all, this hidden gem comes with no price tag and no reservation hassles—simply arrive, set up camp, and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.
The Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight Campsite is a primitive, hike-in and bike-in camping area designed for transient use. It is part of a network of hiker-biker sites located along the C&O Canal Towpath, spaced approximately 5-7 miles apart for convenience.
Historical SignificanceYour tent sits on grounds steeped in American history, where mule-drawn boats once carried coal and goods along this vital 19th-century transportation artery. As part of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Big Woods connects modern adventurers to the dreams and determination of canal builders who transformed the region's economy and landscape. Every mile of towpath beneath your feet echoes with stories of lock keepers, boat captains, and the communities that flourished along these waters during America's canal era.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Mid-Atlantic seasons at Big Woods, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Summer brings warm days perfect for evening campfires, while autumn transforms the canopy into a brilliant tapestry of golds and crimsons. Winter adventurers will find crisp air and peaceful solitude, though should note that potable water facilities hibernate from mid-November through mid-April. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and birdsong. Whatever the season, savvy campers come prepared with layers and weather-appropriate gear to fully embrace nature's changing moods.
ElevationFollowing the gentle contours of the river valley, Big Woods occupies the characteristic low-lying terrain of the C&O Canal corridor. This modest elevation creates a microclimate where morning mists often drift across the water, and the surrounding ridges frame distant views. The level ground makes for comfortable camping and easy access to the towpath, perfect for cyclists maintaining their rhythm or hikers seeking a restful night between longer stretches.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the soft light filtering through a mature forest canopy at Big Woods, where towering trees create a natural cathedral above your campsite. The parallel lines of the historic canal and towpath guide your eye through this green corridor, while the surrounding woodland harbors deer, foxes, and countless bird species that provide nature's soundtrack. This rustic sanctuary offers an authentic backcountry experience—no manicured lawns here, just the raw beauty of the Potomac River valley ecosystem embracing weary travelers with its timeless charm.
Geological RegionBig Woods rests within the embrace of the greater Appalachian region, where ancient mountains have weathered into rolling hills and fertile valleys. The campsite showcases the region's signature blend of deciduous forests and waterways, carved over millennia by the persistent flow of the Potomac River. This geological tapestry creates diverse habitats and scenic vistas, from rocky outcroppings to alluvial bottomlands, offering campers a front-row seat to millions of years of Earth's sculptural artistry.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers basic amenities with no detailed accessibility features described in the source material.
Sites SizeSites are designed for hike-in and bike-in campers, suitable for single overnight stays.
Sites PrivacySites are clustered along the towpath and may offer limited privacy due to proximity.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers should choose sites based on proximity to amenities like chemical toilets and water pumps.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Stay is limited to one night.
Groups
No group camping facilities are available at this site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites include a chemical toilet, picnic table, grill, and drinking water. No vehicles are allowed, maintaining the site for hiker and biker use.
Open and Closed SeasonPotable water is turned off from mid-November to mid-April each year.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable as reservations are not required.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as reservations are not required.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight Campsite are centered around its natural setting along the towpath, making it suitable for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The simplicity of the site aligns with its purpose as a stopover for those exploring the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal area.
Hiking
The campsite is located along the C&O Canal Towpath, which offers hiking opportunities for a range of skill levels.Biking
The campsite caters specifically to bikers using the C&O Canal Towpath, offering a convenient stopover point.Winter Activities
Winter camping may be less accessible due to the seasonal shutdown of potable water from mid-November to mid-April. No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
No water sports are available at the site.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in designated grills or fire rings. Fires should be completely extinguished after use.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsWater may not always be potable; water is treated with iodine and campers are advised to bring purification tablets. Wildlife may be present, and weather conditions can change quickly.
Active alertsPotable water is unavailable from mid-November to mid-April. Campers need to plan accordingly.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThis campground operates as part of a 'Trash-Free Park,' requiring visitors to carry out all trash and waste.
Proximity to water featuresDrinking water is available at the campsite, but it is treated with iodine and requires purification tablets. The canal runs parallel to the campsite, providing a unique water feature.
Campground Map
Driving directionsBig Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (HBO) Campsite directions and information are available at https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/camping.htm.
The campsite is accessible from the C&O Canal towpath. No vehicles are permitted on the towpath, and access is by foot or bike only.Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise the campsite for its simplicity and utility as a stopover along the C&O Canal Towpath. However, there are noted limitations such as poor cell phone service and the seasonality of potable water availability.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciate the campsite's convenient location along the C&O Canal Towpath. The chemical toilet and potable water (when available) are valued amenities, and the campsite's overall...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The primary complaints include limited cell phone service, as noted by a user: "Cell phone service is poor at best." Additionally, the need for water purification tablets and the seasonal...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring water purification tablets and a backup water supply, especially between mid-November and mid-April when potable water is unavailable. Planning for poor cell service is...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campsite is less user-friendly in winter due to the seasonal shutdown of potable water. Warm weather seasons are more favorable for campers.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Another great campsite on the C&O. It's one of my favorites. The water pump is about ¼ mile down from the campsite. Also note that cell phone service is poor at best." - Matt Stevenson 2. "Nice...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site reviews or recommendations for particular spots within this campground are available.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically addressing accessibility features or experiences for campers with disabilities are available.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews or comments specifically related to pet policies or experiences were provided.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025