Fifteen Mile Creek Campsite
4.0766 reviews11710 MacArthur Blvd.
Fifteen Mile Creek Campsite
$10.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$40.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees are $20 for standard non-electric sites during peak season (April 16 - November 15) and $10 during non-peak season (November 16 - December 31). Group site fees are $40 during peak season and $20 during non-peak season. Reservation fees ($8-$9 online/contact center) and cancellation fees ($10) apply.
Share this campground
Recreation.govProvider
About this campground
Nestled at Mile 140 on the legendary C&O Canal Towpath, this intimate drive-in campground serves as a gateway to outdoor adventure along the Potomac River. Despite its modest size, this beloved spot draws adventurers year-round who come to cast lines into the river's flowing waters, paddle its gentle currents, and explore miles of scenic trails by foot or bike. The campground's strategic location makes it an ideal basecamp for those seeking to immerse themselves in the natural splendor of Western Maryland.
The campground offers primitive camping with limited facilities, catering primarily to tent campers, small RVs, and groups.
Historical SignificanceYour camping experience unfolds along one of America's most storied waterways - the C&O Canal Towpath, where mules once pulled cargo boats through 184.5 miles of American history. This transportation marvel, now preserved as a linear park, tells the tale of 19th-century commerce and engineering. Just beyond your tent flap lie the wild expanses of Green Ridge State Forest and Billmeyer Wildlife Management Area, where conservation efforts have protected thousands of acres for future generations to explore and cherish.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints this riverside retreat in dramatically different hues. Spring arrives with wildflowers and mild temperatures perfect for hiking, while summer brings warm, humid days ideal for river activities and evening campfires. Autumn transforms the surrounding forest into a breathtaking canvas of gold, crimson, and amber - a photographer's paradise. Winter strips the landscape to its essence, offering crisp, quiet days for the hardy souls who appreciate solitude. Those venturing here in colder months should pack extra provisions, as snow and ice can temporarily cut off this peaceful haven from the outside world.
ElevationPerched gracefully above the Potomac River's flowing waters, the campground offers commanding vistas that reward early risers with misty morning panoramas and treat evening gatherers to spectacular sunsets. This elevated position not only provides stunning photo opportunities but also keeps campers comfortably above the river's occasional mood swings while maintaining easy access to waterside activities.
Natural Features and SceneryWhere Fifteen Mile Creek meets the mighty Potomac, nature has crafted a masterpiece of forest and water. Towering trees of the Appalachian hardwood forest create a living cathedral overhead, their canopy sheltering campers while framing glimpses of the river below. The surrounding Green Ridge State Forest extends the wilderness experience in every direction, offering 47,000 acres of ridge-and-valley terrain to explore. Morning mists rise from the water, afternoon light dances through the leaves, and autumn's grand finale transforms the entire landscape into nature's finest gallery exhibition.
Geological RegionDeep in the ancient folds of Western Maryland's Appalachian Mountains, this campground occupies a special place where mountain meets river. The confluence of Fifteen Mile Creek and the Potomac River has carved a diverse ecosystem through millennia, creating a rich tapestry of ridge-top forests, riverside meadows, and rocky outcrops. Green Ridge State Forest's dramatic terrain surrounds the area, showcasing the geological forces that shaped this region over millions of years. This unique position offers campers the rare opportunity to experience both mountain and river ecosystems from a single basecamp.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe group site is separated from the main campground by a short walk across a bridge, and vehicles are not allowed directly at the group site. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities was not explicitly mentioned in the sources.
Sites SizeSites are described as drive-in and large enough to park vehicles such as small fifth wheels or RVs with a 20 ft. maximum. The group site can accommodate up to 30 people, while single sites accommodate up to 8 people.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited at this campground as several reviews mention that campsites are close together. "Tiny, tiny loop with 9 sites very close together," one reviewer stated. Another noted, "Sites don’t have privacy, no trees between."
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites 6-9 for Potomac River views; site 5 for shade and river access. Avoid site 7 if shade is a priority.
Best CampsitesSite 5 is highly praised for shade and proximity to the river; site 6 offers excellent river views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM ET
Check-out
12:00 PM ET
Stay Limit
- Maximum 14 nights per visit
- maximum 30 nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Maximum of 8 guests per single campsite
- group site accommodates up to 30 people.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 30 people and is separated from the main area by a short bridge. Vehicles must park in the adjacent lot, requiring campers to carry their gear to the site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutNine single campsites arranged in a loop; one large group site located across a bridge requiring a hike-in.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 16 - December 31. Reservations are available on a 6-month rolling basis.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, via mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability; reservations are highly recommended as the campground often fills up on weekends.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made up to 2 days before the reservation incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations for individual sites lose the first night's fee. Group site cancellations within 14 days also forfeit the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Fifteen Mile Creek Campground provides a variety of outdoor recreational activities, focusing on its natural surroundings and proximity to the Potomac River and C&O Canal Towpath. Popular activities include boating, fishing, hiking, and biking. The boat ramp allows easy access to the river for kayakers and anglers. Some visitors also enjoy swimming informally at the river, although it's not an officially designated swimming area.
Hiking
Numerous trails are accessible from the campground, including the C&O Canal Towpath and hiking routes to nearby natural attractions like the Indigo Tunnel. "It’s by the river, and very peaceful and well kept," mentioned one user about the hiking experience.Fishing
Fishing is a highly popular activity here. "Great location for camping, kayaking, and biking," said one user. Maryland fishing licenses are required for those aged 16 and older.Swimming
There are no official swimming areas, but some users mentioned swimming informally in the Potomac River. "Make sure to take a swim in the river!" noted a reviewer.Biking
The campground is adjacent to the C&O Canal Towpath, which is highly suitable for biking. "Great campground and bike trails nearby," one camper shared.Boating
The campground features a boat ramp for easy access to the Potomac River. "There is a boat ramp—the river is shallow at this location," said one review, recommending flat-bottomed boats or kayaks.Wildlife viewing
The campground is surrounded by natural areas, making it ideal for wildlife observation. "We saw a bald eagle on the river while paddle boarding," shared a user.Winter Activities
The campground is open in winter, but visitors are advised to bring ample water and food as local supplies may be limited.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are common water-based activities due to the campground's proximity to the Potomac River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated fire rings only; no cutting live vegetation. Fallen wood may be used for firewood.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include mosquitoes, steep trails, and occasional theft (as indicated in user reviews). Poor water quality and bathroom maintenance issues noted.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 0.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Emergency Services
National Capital Region Communications Center: 1-866-677-6677 for emergencies. Closest hospital or emergency medical facilities are likely in Hancock or Cumberland, MD, approximately 10-25 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 16 - November 15 (peak season).
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling bins are available since the park is 'Trash Free.' Campers must carry out all trash and ensure the area is left clean before departure.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Fifteen Mile Creek and the Potomac River; boat ramp available for fishing and kayaking.
Common complaintsReviews mention close proximity of campsites, frequent noise from trains and boaters, occasional lack of privacy, and cleanliness issues with vault toilets.
HostNo on-site hosts; National Park Service Rangers manage the area, but campers report minimal enforcement.
Campground Map
11710 MacArthur Blvd.
Driving directionsFrom Hagerstown: Take I-70W to I-68 W. Take Exit 68 towards Little Orleans. Follow Orleans Rd for 4 miles. Make a left on High Germany Rd. and it will dead end at the campground. From Cumberland: Take I-68 east for 25 miles to exit 68 and then follow Orleans Road for 4 miles. Make a left on High Germany Rd and it will dead end in the park.
Access to the campground is via High Germany Road, which dead-ends at the campsite. RVs must specifically use High Germany Road due to a tunnel on Orleans Road that restricts larger vehicles. Seasonal conditions may affect accessibility, and winter camping advises bringing adequate supplies due to remote access.Nearby places
Little Orleans (4 miles), Hancock (approx. 10 miles), Paw Paw, WV (approx. 15 miles)
Nearby supplies
Campground supplies may be available at Little Orleans Campground Campstore (approx. 1 mile)
additional supplies can be obtained in Hancock or Cumberland.
Camper Reviews
4.1
66 reviews
Fifteen Mile Creek Campsite is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the beautiful natural surroundings and convenient access to the Potomac River and C&O Canal Towpath. Common praises include the campground's peacefulness, scenic views, and suitability for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. However, frequent complaints involve the lack of privacy between campsites, noise from occasional late-night visitors, and limited amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 66 reviews
What Campers Love
Notable positive aspects include: scenic views ('Great view of the river and launching area'), excellent hiking and biking access, and clean facilities ('Vault toilets were clean, and the place as a...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Concerns raised include: campsites being too close together ('Tiny, tiny loop with 9 sites very close together'), noise from late-night visitors ('Locals drove to the boat launch at all hours of the...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing your own firewood, water, and hand soap. "RVrs fill your fresh water tank before you get there," noted one reviewer. Others suggest choosing specific sites for the best...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busy during peak seasons like summer and holiday weekends, with increased activity from boaters and cyclists. Fall is particularly recommended for its scenic beauty. Winter visitors...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Nice little campground right on the Potomac," "Very beautiful and well kept! Reservations are needed," and "Great site along the trail. I am coming back again."
Based on 66 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 5 is highly praised for its shade and proximity to the river. Site 6 offers excellent river views but less shade. The group site is noted for its spaciousness and separation from other sites.
Based on 66 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility concerns were not specifically mentioned, but the group site requires carrying gear from the parking area, which could be challenging for some users.
Based on 66 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. One user noted, 'Beautiful area. Peaceful. Only downside was dog poop all around the area. I wish people would pick up after their pooch.'
Based on 66 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025