Indigo Neck Hiker Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite
03 reviewsIndigo Neck 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
There is no fee charged for utilizing this campsite.
About this campground
Tucked away at mile marker 139.2 along the historic C&O Canal Towpath, Indigo Neck Hiker Biker Overnight Campsite offers weary travelers a peaceful respite from their journey. This free, first-come, first-served haven welcomes hikers and bikers with essential amenities including a chemical toilet, picnic table, and grill. A water spigot provides iodine-treated water during the warmer months, though savvy adventurers always pack purification tablets as backup. From mid-November through mid-April, the water supply hibernates with the cold, making self-sufficiency essential for winter explorers.
This campsite caters specifically to hiker/biker overnight visitors. It operates entirely on a first-come, first-served basis and does not require reservations.
Historical SignificanceAs part of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Indigo Neck sits along a waterway that once served as America's commercial lifeline. Where mules once pulled cargo boats laden with coal and lumber, modern adventurers now pedal and hike, following the same routes that helped build a nation. The towpath beneath your feet echoes with nearly two centuries of American history, from the canal's ambitious beginnings in 1828 to its transformation into one of the country's most beloved recreational corridors.
Weather and SeasonsThe campsite transforms with the seasons, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Spring through fall brings the convenience of running water and lush greenery, while winter months (November 15 to April 15) challenge visitors with turned-off water systems but reward them with stark beauty and solitude. The shoulder seasons offer perhaps the best camping weather, with mild temperatures perfect for cycling the towpath or hiking the surrounding trails.
ElevationThe campsite rests at the gentle grade characteristic of the C&O Canal towpath, providing an accessible retreat for cyclists and hikers of all skill levels. The minimal elevation change makes it an ideal stopping point for those covering long distances along the canal.
Natural Features and ScenerySecluded between Little Orleans and Pearre Station, this hidden gem offers campers a front-row seat to the Potomac River's timeless performance. Summer visitors are treated to glimpses of the river through the leafy canopy, while the soothing soundtrack of flowing water provides nature's own white noise machine. The campsite's easy river access invites morning coffee contemplation or evening stargazing by the water's edge. The surrounding forest creates a natural privacy screen, making this spot feel like your own secret discovery despite its location along the popular towpath.
Geological RegionNestled in the Potomac River Valley, Indigo Neck showcases the diverse Mid-Atlantic landscape where ancient ridges meet meandering waterways. The campsite sits within a rich tapestry of deciduous forest and riparian habitat, where the geological story of the Appalachian region unfolds along the riverbank. This convergence of forest, river, and historic canal creates a unique ecosystem that supports diverse wildlife and offers campers an immersive natural experience just steps from the towpath.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site is accessible by foot or bike, primarily catering to hiker/biker overnight visitors.
Sites SizeNo specific details about site dimensions are provided.
Sites PrivacyDescribed as open and less private, with mentions of proximity to the river and openness in user reviews.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviews suggest bringing earplugs due to train noise across the river and ensuring water purification tablets are carried.
Best CampsitesSpecific information about individual campsites within Indigo Neck HBO Campsite is not provided.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not applicable as the site is first-come, first-served.
Check-out
Visitors are limited to one-night stays.
Stay Limit
Stay is limited to one night per site, per trip.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Specific guest limits per site are not indicated.
Groups
No group sites are available at this location.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campsite is described as wide open with two fire pits and only one picnic table. It is designed for hiker/biker usage.
Open and Closed SeasonWater is turned off from November 15 to April 15 each year, indicating seasonal considerations for visitors.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not required or available; the campsite operates on a first-come-first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a first-come-first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as the campsite operates on a first-come-first-served basis.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at this campsite are focused on the natural surroundings. Notable mentions include hiking and enjoying the river's presence (audibly and visually).
Hiking
The campsite sits along the C&O Canal Towpath, providing easy access to hiking trails.Biking
Biking is a common activity along the C&O Canal Towpath. The campsite caters specifically to hiker/biker visitors.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not feasible due to the seasonal water shutdown.Water Sports
No water sports are indicated for this location.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- A grill is available at the campsite, but specific fire policies are not outlined.
Hazards
General hazards"Potable water may not be available at each campsite. Water is treated with iodine." Visitors are cautioned about water scarcity and advised to carry purification means.
Active alertsNo specific alerts were mentioned for this particular campsite.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.7 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 contacted at (866) 677-6677 or 911. Specific locations of hospitals or ranger stations are not mentioned.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThe site follows a 'Pack-in, Pack-out' policy. No trash cans or recycling facilities are provided.
Proximity to water features"Easy river access" is mentioned in reviews, and the campsite provides views and sounds of the Potomac River during summer.
Common complaints"Major downside was the train tracks are right across the river" and "the trains would blow their horns until 1-2am" leading to disturbances during the night (User review by Engine Ear).
HostNo campsite host is mentioned.
Campground Map
Driving directionsDirections provided in the authoritative content mention the recreation area's website (http://www.nps.gov/choh/) for more information, but detailed directions specific to the campsite are not listed.
The campsite is accessible via the C&O Canal Towpath, suitable primarily for hikers and bikers; vehicle access details are not provided.Nearby places
Little Orleans is the closest city, but specific distances or travel times from other population centers are not provided.
Nearby supplies
The campsite warns visitors to bring water purification tablets and does not specify nearby grocery or camping supply stores.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Indigo Neck Hiker Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally appreciate the site's location along the towpath and its suitability for hiker/biker guests. However, train noise at night is a recurring complaint.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Users have highlighted the campsite's secluded nature, ease of river access, and its placement directly along the towpath as positive attributes. One reviewer noted, 'It's pretty secluded and has...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The proximity of train tracks and associated noise, especially late at night, is frequently mentioned as a negative factor. One user stated, 'Trains would blow their horns until 1-2am, I woke up each...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors should bring water purification tablets due to treated iodine water. Prepare for potential train noise with earplugs.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Water availability is seasonal and is turned off from November 15 to April 15, making the site less suitable for winter camping.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'This is a nice hiker/biker campsite on the towpath between Little Orleans and Pearre Station. It's pretty secluded and has easy river access.' - Thomas Aitken
2. 'This is a good hiker/biker...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are mentioned for individual reviews.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews are available.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No explicit feedback on pet policies or experiences.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025