Jordan Junction Hiker-Biker Campsite

Star0
4 reviews
Jordan Junction 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 stay at Jordan Junction Hiker-Biker Campsite.
Share this campground
(301) 739-4200CHOH_information@nps.gov

About this campground

Discover your perfect trailside retreat at Jordan Junction Hiker-Biker Campsite, a welcoming waypoint at mile 101.2 along the historic C&O Canal Towpath. This thoughtfully designed campsite caters exclusively to adventurous souls traveling by foot or bicycle, offering a peaceful respite without the hassle of fees or reservations. Your home for the night includes essential comforts: chemical toilets, a sturdy picnic table for evening meals, a grill for cooking up trail favorites, and access to non-potable water. True to its hiker-biker spirit, stays are limited to one night, encouraging you to continue your journey along this legendary pathway.
Jordan Junction Hiker-Biker Campsite is a primitive, first-come, first-served campground designed specifically for hikers and bikers traveling along the C&O Canal Towpath. It offers simple amenities and does not require reservations.
Historical SignificanceCamp where history flows alongside the Potomac at this site within the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park. Here, you're sleeping on grounds that once echoed with the clip-clop of mule teams and the calls of canal boat captains during the 19th century's bustling era of water-based commerce. The towpath beneath your feet served as a vital transportation artery, connecting communities and carrying coal, lumber, and agricultural goods between the Allegheny Mountains and the nation's capital. Today, this preserved corridor offers modern adventurers a chance to pedal or hike through living history.
Weather and SeasonsTime your adventure wisely to make the most of Jordan Junction's seasonal rhythms. From mid-April through mid-November, the campsite's water pump springs to life, making these months ideal for your towpath expedition. Spring brings wildflowers and mild temperatures, while summer offers long days perfect for extended rides. Fall transforms the surrounding forest into a tapestry of gold and crimson. Winter adventurers should note that water sources become inaccessible during colder months, requiring extra preparation. The region's variable humidity and precipitation patterns create an ever-changing backdrop for your outdoor experience.
ElevationThe campsite rests at a gentle elevation along the canal's historic water level, providing easy access for weary travelers while maintaining the towpath's characteristic flat profile that makes it beloved by long-distance cyclists and hikers.
Natural Features and SceneryEmbrace the tranquility of your woodland sanctuary, where towering trees create a natural cathedral above your campsite. The nearby Potomac River whispers ancient stories as it flows past, while the surrounding Appalachian ecosystem comes alive with the rustle of wildlife at dawn and dusk. Watch for deer emerging from the forest edge, listen for the distinctive call of barred owls at night, and wake to a chorus of songbirds greeting the morning sun. The interplay of river, forest, and historic canal creates a uniquely peaceful atmosphere that rejuvenates trail-weary spirits.
Geological RegionSet within the dramatic landscape where the Potomac River carves through the ancient Appalachian Mountains, Jordan Junction occupies a fascinating geological crossroads. The campground sits along the C&O Canal Towpath in a region shaped by millions of years of river erosion, creating the water gap that made the canal route possible. This Appalachian setting showcases exposed rock formations, river terraces, and the enduring power of water to shape landscapes, offering observant campers a glimpse into the Earth's dynamic history.

Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground does not provide detailed accessibility features. The primitive setup may present challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.
Sites SizeThe sites are designed for hiker-biker use, which implies limited space appropriate for small tents and gear.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not detailed, but the description suggests proximity to a towpath, likely reducing seclusion.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesInformation not provided.
Best CampsitesInformation not provided.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Not applicable
Check-out
Not applicable
Stay Limit
Overnight stays are limited to one night.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Information not explicitly provided beyond general group tent site descriptions.
Groups
Group camping is not available at this campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutStandard layout includes a chemical toilet, picnic table, grill, and non-potable water.
Open and Closed SeasonWater is turned off from mid-November to mid-April each year. No water is available during these months.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations required; walk-in availability only.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. No reservations or fees are required.
Cancellation PolicyNot Applicable; reservations are not accepted.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Typical activities at Jordan Junction Hiker-Biker Campsite include hiking and biking along the C&O Canal Towpath. Opportunities for wildlife observation are likely due to the park's natural setting, though specific wildlife or activity details aren't given.
Hiking
Hiking is a key activity as the campsite is located along the C&O Canal Towpath. The towpath offers scenic views and various terrains suitable for walkers of all levels.
Biking
The campsite is part of the C&O Canal Towpath, making it a popular spot for biking enthusiasts traveling through the park.
Winter Activities
The campsite is closed for water access from mid-November to mid-April, suggesting limited winter use.
Water Sports
Water sports are not mentioned as activities at this campground.

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Grills and fire rings are provided. Fires are permitted only in established fire rings.
  • Quiet hours are Not specified in official resources.

Hazards

General hazardsNon-potable water requires treatment before use. Seasonal water availability may pose challenges for visitors.
Active alertsUser reviews mention missing water pump handles, leading to limited water availability.

Weather forecast

75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Humidity: 34%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 7.8 mph

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Clear sky
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Temperature Trends

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Precipitation Trends

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Weather Summaries

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Emergency Services

Contact for Park Emergencies: (866) 677-6677 or 911. Emergency services available in Williamsport, MD.

Good to know

Peak season datesMid-April to mid-November when water is turned on.
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'Trash Free Park,' so campers must pack out all trash and leave the area clean.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Potomac River and along the C&O Canal Towpath.
Common complaints"Be aware that the National Park Service has posted that there is no water available at this campsite." "Good campsite just outside of Williamsport BUT future campers and NPS be aware that as of 8/29 the water pump is missing its handle, THERE IS NO WATER." "As of October 4th it has water."
HostThere is no campsite host or staff at this location.

Campground Map

Driving directionsMore information is available at the official site: http://www.nps.gov/choh/
Jordan Junction Hiker-Biker Campsite is accessible off the C&O Canal Towpath. No motor vehicle traffic is allowed on the towpath, and access is by foot or bike only.
Nearby places
Williamsport, MD (closest city, distance null)
Nearby supplies
Nearby supplies may be available in Williamsport, MD, but specific distances or locations are not mentioned.

Camper Reviews

0.0
4 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Jordan Junction Hiker-Biker Campsite has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews suggest that Jordan Junction Hiker-Biker Campsite is a convenient spot for bikers and hikers, particularly for short overnight stays. Opinions on the water availability are mixed, and some highlight the absence of a pump handle or functional water source at times.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews

What Campers Love

Many reviewers appreciate the convenience of the campsite’s location, especially for those traveling along the towpath. The presence of picnic tables and grills is noted as an added benefit.
Based on 4 reviews

Common Concerns

A recurring issue mentioned in reviews is the lack of potable water, with several users reporting the pump handle being missing or water unavailable. Some also mention limited facilities and space...
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Based on 4 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to bring their own potable water due to the non-potable status of the water source. It’s also recommended to arrive early to secure a spot, as the campsite operates on a...
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Based on 4 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campsite’s water supply is seasonal, turned off from mid-November to mid-April, which may affect usability during colder months. Summer reviews highlight convenience, while winter reviews point...
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Based on 4 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'This is an awesome campsite. So convenient to Williamsport.' – Mark Perschel 2. 'Good campsite just outside of Williamsport BUT future campers and NPS be aware that as of 8/29 the water pump is...
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Based on 4 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific site numbers or areas within the campground are detailed in the reviews.
Based on 4 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility.
Based on 4 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 4 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

Campgrounds
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Jordan Junction Hiker-Biker Campsite