Horseshoe Bend Hiker-Biker Campsite
4.176 reviews, Mercersville, MD, 21782, USA
Horseshoe Bend Hiker-Biker 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 fees
About this campground
Horseshoe C welcomes adventurous spirits and cycling enthusiasts to a peaceful riverside retreat where the historic C&O Canal towpath meets the mighty Potomac River. This biker-friendly campground offers the perfect basecamp for two-wheeled explorers seeking both natural beauty and a touch of American history.
The Horseshoe Bend Hiker-Biker Campsite is a primitive camping facility specifically designed for transient hikers and bikers.
Historical SignificanceWhile modest in its historical footprint, this site whispers tales of America's canal era, when mule-drawn barges transported goods along this very waterway. Today's campers sleep where yesterday's canal workers once toiled, adding a subtle layer of heritage to your outdoor experience.
Weather and SeasonsAutumn transforms this riverside haven into a spectacular display of golden yellows and burnt oranges, with crisp air and gentle breezes creating ideal camping conditions. Fall visitors are treated to nature's grand finale as deciduous trees paint the canal corridor in warm, vibrant hues.
ElevationNestled in the gentle lowlands along the Potomac River valley, this campground offers easy, level terrain that's perfect for setting up camp without the challenges of steep grades. The low elevation ensures comfortable temperatures and accessibility for campers of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryExperience the tranquil convergence of waterways where a mild creek meets the historic canal and the flowing Potomac River. This unique riverside setting at Mile 79.2 of the C&O Canal National Historical Park creates an intimate camping experience with water views in multiple directions. The gentle terrain and proximity to the riverbank offer campers front-row seats to nature's daily performances, from morning mist rising off the water to evening wildlife visits along the shore.
Geological RegionPositioned at Mile 79.2 along the legendary C&O Canal National Historical Park towpath, this campground occupies a special ecological niche where human history and natural systems intertwine. The site's dual adjacency to both the historic canal and the Potomac River creates a unique camping environment where geological forces have shaped both the landscape and the human stories written upon it. This riverbank location offers campers an authentic Potomac Valley experience with direct access to one of America's most storied waterways.
Campsite details
AccessibilityA staircase with a handrail is available to access the tent area, which may assist those with limited mobility, but accessibility for wheelchairs is unclear.
Sites SizeThe site is described as having plenty of flat areas suitable for tents.
Sites PrivacySites lack significant privacy, primarily catering to transient hikers and bikers along the towpath.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFlat
Best CampsitesSherpherdstown Area
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00
Check-out
12 a.m
Stay Limit
Overnight stays limited single check-in
Guests Allowed Per Site
,8.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSteep
Open and Closed SeasonYear round , exceptions in cold seasonal
Reservation PlatformsGovernment
Walk-in AvailabilityPriority
Cancellation PolicyRestrooms hygiene may be turned off during season emergencies,
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The Horseshoe Bend Hiker-Biker Campsite offers a serene environment for resting during extended hikes or bike rides along the C&O Canal Towpath. There are no organized activities, but the natural setting provides opportunities for basic recreation.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Completely
- Quiet hours are 10
Hazards
General hazards.
Active alertsClosures muddy
Weather forecast
77
°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
Emergency Services
911
Good to know
Peak season datesNovember-
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are not provided, as this is part of a 'Trash Free Park' initiative. Campers must pack out all their waste.
Proximity to water featuresRiver Potomac
Common complaintsFamily
Host.
Campground Map
, Mercersville, MD, 21782, USA
Driving directionsDirections are available at http://www.nps.gov/choh/
Steep pathways and stairs lead down to the tent areas. Access requires hiking or biking and is not suitable for vehicles.Nearby places
, Mercersville (nearest city)
Nearby supplies
911
Camper Reviews
4.2
6 reviews
Horseshoe Bend Hiker-Biker Campsite is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews highlight the scenic beauty of the campsite but also mention some drawbacks, such as muddy conditions and poor bathroom quality. The site is noted for its rustic charm and its suitability for hikers and bikers.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the picturesque setting along the Potomac River and the flat areas for pitching tents. "Nice river view," noted one reviewer. Another mentioned, "One of the better ones. It has...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include muddy conditions after rain, the steep hike to the campsite, and poor quality of the chemical toilets. One reviewer described the porta-john as "old enough that maybe it saw use in...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Be prepared for muddy conditions if it rains and bring a water filtration system or means to treat water. Considering the steep access, pack gear efficiently.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The water supply is turned off from mid-November to mid-April. Rainy weather often leads to muddy conditions, making some areas less desirable for tent pitching.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Water was not muddy. Very picturesque site." - Richard K.
2. "Steep bank and/or staircase to get back on the trail." - Richard K.
3. "The hike down to the tent area is a little steep but there...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites are mostly flat with grass. Some reviews mention noise from across the river during holiday weekends.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Stairs with a handrail are available to access the tent area, but no further details about accessibility features are provided in the reviews.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025