Killiansburg Cave Hiker-Biker Campsite
4.169 reviews.
Killiansburg Cave 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 are required for Killiansburg Cave Hiker-Biker Campsite.
About this campground
Nestled at Mile 75.2 along the historic C&O Canal Towpath, Killiansburg Cave Hiker-Biker Campsite offers weary travelers a peaceful respite on their towpath journey. As part of a thoughtfully spaced network of primitive campsites positioned every 5-7 miles, this riverside haven provides essential amenities for adventurers exploring the 184.5-mile corridor between Cumberland and Georgetown.
The Killiansburg Cave Hiker-Biker Campsite is specifically designed for hiker-bikers traveling along the C&O Canal Towpath. It does not require reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Overnight stays are limited to one night.
Historical SignificanceThis stretch of the C&O Canal tells the story of America's early transportation ambitions, where mule-drawn boats once carried coal and goods along this vital waterway. Today's campsite sits quietly along the same towpath where generations of canal workers, lock keepers, and boat captains once made their living, offering modern adventurers a chance to sleep under the same stars that guided 19th-century travelers.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the campsite's changing character through the seasons, from vibrant spring wildflowers to autumn's golden canopy. Plan accordingly as water access follows a seasonal rhythm—available from mid-April through mid-November before winter's freeze necessitates the annual shut-off. Each season paints the Potomac Valley in different hues, offering cyclists and hikers unique perspectives throughout the year.
ElevationPositioned at river level along the gentle curves of the Potomac, the campsite rests in the natural floodplain where the ancient river has carved its course through the Maryland countryside. This low-lying location provides easy towpath access while keeping campers close to the soothing sounds of flowing water.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to mist rising off the Potomac River and fall asleep to the gentle murmur of moving water at this tranquil riverside retreat. The campsite's namesake caves, carved by centuries of natural forces into the hillside above, add an element of geological intrigue to your stay. Surrounded by mature forest and blessed with expansive river views, this quiet sanctuary offers front-row seats to blue herons fishing at dawn and deer coming to drink at dusk.
Geological RegionSet within the Potomac River Valley where ancient geological forces have sculpted a dramatic landscape of limestone cliffs, river terraces, and water-carved caves. This section of the C&O Canal Towpath follows the river's meandering course through a region where millions of years of erosion have exposed fascinating rock formations and created the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the authoritative content.
Sites SizeThe size of the campsites is not specified in the authoritative content.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy of sites is not explicitly discussed. However, user reviews indicate two levels of camping, with the lower level offering more privacy as it is away from the trail and closer to the river.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose elevated sites to avoid water run-off during heavy rains.
Best CampsitesOne reviewer mentioned a good camping site on a berm along the river bank with grassy and soft dirt, capable of draining well in rainy conditions.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
N/A
Check-out
N/A
Stay Limit
Overnight stays are limited to one night.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Each site allows several guests
- no specific limit is set.
Groups
Group sites are 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 layoutThe site consists of basic camping areas distributed along the towpath.
Open and Closed SeasonWater is turned off from mid-November to mid-April each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not applicable.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable year-round as a first-come-first-served site; no reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not required; thus, there are no cancellation policies.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Camping activities at the Killiansburg Cave Hiker-Biker Campsite include exploring the nearby caves, hiking, and enjoying the scenic views of the Potomac River.
Hiking
The campsite is located along the C&O Canal Towpath, which offers excellent hiking opportunities. Visitors can explore nearby caves and scenic landscapes.Biking
The campsite is tailored for hiker-bikers, being situated directly along the C&O Canal Towpath, a popular biking route.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned; water is turned off during the winter months, limiting some utilities.Water Sports
No details about water sports are provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are permitted only in established fire rings within the campsite.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazards"Water in the campground is non-potable. River rise and floods can modify conditions quickly here."
Active alertsScheduled Closure: CSX Transportation will close the railroad crossings at Point of Rocks (mile 48.2) and Lander (mile 50.8) from 6/27-7/1 for repairs.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4 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
Park Emergencies: (866) 677-6677 or call 911.
Good to know
Peak season dates.
Trash and recyclingThe park adheres to a 'Trash Free Park' policy. Campers must carry out all trash, as trash cans are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Potomac River and adjacent caves.
Common complaintsSome reviews note that tables and amenities may be missing; heavy rain causes dirt ground to become muddy.
HostNo onsite host is available.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsMore information is available at http://www.nps.gov/choh/.
The campground is accessible along the towpath; no motor vehicle traffic is allowed along the path.Nearby places
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Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.2
9 reviews
Killiansburg Cave Hiker-Biker Campsite is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campsite is described as suitable for an overnight stop, with specific praise for its scenic location along the Potomac River. However, some users noted limitations such as dirt and mud during rains and the presence of only basic amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciated the scenic views of the river, the proximity to caves, and the peaceful atmosphere. One user mentioned, 'As hiker-biker overnight campsites on the Towpath go, this one offers a...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints included muddy ground during rains, limited flat spots for tents, and the non-potable water supply. One reviewer shared, 'Most of the ground is dirt which would turn to mud with a little...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest bringing water due to non-potable supply and exploring the nearby caves for a unique experience. 'Up river from the campsite about half a mile on the right you will see caves in the...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campsite appears most suitable for visits outside of the rainy season, as the dirt ground becomes muddy. Winter camping is less convenient due to the water being turned off from mid-November to...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Fun place to set up tents or hammocks. Right on the water with a beautiful view.' - Rebecca Daniels. 2. 'The privy is also in somewhat better shape than many sites on the Towpath.' - David Davis....
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
One user highlighted, 'There is one good spot on a berm right at the edge of the riverbank. It has grass, very soft dirt, and slopes away on all sides which will drain runoff well.'
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no detailed reviews focused on accessibility.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No information on pet policies or pet-related experiences is provided.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025