Indian Flats Hiker-Biker Campsite
4.3911 reviewsIndian Flats 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 fee is required to camp at the Indian Flats Hiker-Biker Campsite as it operates on a first-come-first-served basis.
About this campground
Tucked away at mile marker 42.5 along the historic C&O Canal Towpath, Indian Flats Hiker-Biker Campsite offers weary travelers a welcome respite without the price tag. This intimate, free-access haven caters specifically to adventurers exploring the towpath by foot or pedal, providing essential amenities including a chemical toilet, sturdy picnic table, and grill for evening meals. Multiple groups can share this peaceful space, creating opportunities for trail stories and camaraderie under the stars. While the water source is non-potable, it's a valuable resource for filtering or boiling during your journey.
Indian Flats Hiker-Biker Campsite caters primarily to hikers and bikers seeking a back-to-nature, primitive camping experience. It does not accommodate RVs or large vehicles as access is limited to the towpath.
Historical SignificanceNull
Weather and SeasonsThe rhythm of the seasons shapes your experience at Indian Flats. From mid-November through mid-April, the campsite enters its quiet winter phase when water spigots are turned off to prevent freezing—plan accordingly with extra water supplies during these months. Summer transforms the site into a verdant retreat, though September visitors have discovered that late summer heat can still pack a punch, making the riverside location especially appealing for cooling off after a long day on the trail.
ElevationNull
Natural Features and SceneryPerched at a spectacular bend in the Potomac River, Indian Flats rewards evening visitors with breathtaking sunset displays that paint the water in shades of gold and crimson. The campground's level terrain welcomes tents of all sizes, while the surrounding woodland creates a natural amphitheater of tranquility. Campers consistently praise the site's serene atmosphere, where the gentle sounds of the flowing river blend with rustling leaves to create nature's perfect lullaby.
Geological RegionNestled within Maryland's lush riverine ecosystem, Indian Flats occupies a prime position where the wooded landscape meets the mighty Potomac River. This convergence creates a diverse habitat along the C&O Canal Towpath, where dense forest canopy provides shade and shelter while the nearby river supports a rich tapestry of wildlife. The rural character of the region offers campers an authentic escape into nature, far from the bustle of urban life yet easily accessible via the well-maintained towpath.
Campsite details
Sites PrivacySites are described as relatively secluded and large enough for multiple groups, providing a sense of privacy away from the main trail.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Bring earplugs if you are a light sleeper." The site is better suited for smaller groups due to space limitations. Users recommend visiting during the summer months when water is available.
Best CampsitesNull
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Overnight stays are limited to one night.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutNull
Open and Closed SeasonWater at the campsite is turned off from mid-November to mid-April each year, indicating that the campsite is primarily used during the warmer months when water is available.
Reservation PlatformsAs no reservations are required, platforms are not applicable.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campsite operates on a first-come-first-served basis, with no fees or reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyAs no reservations are required, there is no cancellation policy applicable.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities available at Indian Flats Hiker-Biker Campsite are centered around the natural environment of the Potomac River and C&O Canal. Popular activities include hiking and enjoying the scenic views.
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in grills provided at the site. Users are advised to ensure fires are completely extinguished before leaving.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsWater is non-potable and must be treated before use. Wildlife such as bucks can be common overnight, as noted by one user, who humorously remarked, “A buck snorted for a while in the middle of the night as if to scold me for being there.” Flooding is possible due to proximity to the river.
Active alertsThere is an alert for closures and detours along the towpath due to hazardous conditions or maintenance. Specific closures from June 27 to July 1, 2025, will affect accessibility to parking lots and boat ramps near Point of Rocks and Lander.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.1 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
Emergency services can be reached by calling 911 or the Park Emergencies number at (866) 677-6677.
Good to know
Peak season datesThe campsite is likely more accessible between mid-April and mid-November when water pumps are functional.
Trash and recyclingThis campground follows a 'Leave No Trace' policy, and campers are responsible for removing all trash. No trash or recycling bins are provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Potomac River, the campsite offers easy access for hikers and bikers.
Common complaintsSome users have noted trains running through the night and the occasional airplane noise, which may disturb light sleepers. The water pump is frequently non-functional, and the campground is small for larger groups.
HostThere is no campsite host or staff.
Campground Map
Driving directionsMore information is available at http://www.nps.gov/choh/
Access is by foot only, as vehicular traffic is prohibited on the towpath. The campsite is located along the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal towpath at mile marker 42.5.Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are not explicitly stated
visitors should bring potable water and sufficient camping supplies, as the provided water pump is non-potable and seasonal.
Camper Reviews
4.4
11 reviews
Indian Flats Hiker-Biker Campsite is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Indian Flats Hiker-Biker Campsite is highly regarded for its peaceful setting and convenient location along the C&O Canal Towpath. User reviews highlight its simplicity and the natural beauty surrounding it.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciated the campsite’s seclusion, proximity to the river, and ample space. A review stated, 'Lovely and large campsite. Secluded from the trail and with access to the river. Room for...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Criticism in reviews pointed to the water pump being unreliable and the water being non-potable. One review commented, 'Water pump is now working, but water is not potable and needs to be treated.'...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing a water filter and earplugs. Additionally, some users advised confirming water pump functionality ahead of time, especially in warmer months.
Based on 11 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter camping reviews noted the quietness and peacefulness of the area but emphasized the need to bring potable water as the pump is shut off during this time.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Great free campsite. Plenty of space to share with other campers.'
- 'Fairly small hiker biker camp area beside the river. Portaloo, Pump well water not potable.'
- 'Favorite place to camp on the...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews generally highlighted the spaciousness of the campground, suitable for multiple groups, and its scenic proximity to the river. One review remarked, 'Room for multiple groups to set up.'
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025