North Mountain Hiker-Biker Campsite
02 reviewsNorth Mountain 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 charged for using this campsite.
About this campground
Nestled at mile marker 110.0 along the historic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath, North Mountain Hiker-Biker Campsite offers a true back-to-basics camping experience for adventurous souls traversing this legendary trail. This free primitive campsite provides essential amenities for weary travelers, including a chemical toilet, picnic table, and grill for evening meals under the stars. Fresh water flows here during the warmer months (treated with iodine for safety), though wise campers pack purification tablets as backup. It's the perfect respite for those seeking an authentic connection with the towpath's storied past.
The North Mountain Hiker-Biker Campsite caters specifically to hikers and bikers traveling along the C&O Canal Towpath. It offers basic facilities for a one-night stay without fees or reservations.
Historical SignificanceYour tent sits on ground steeped in American history, where mule-drawn boats once carried coal and goods along this vital 19th-century transportation artery. As part of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, the campsite connects modern adventurers to the legacy of canal workers, lock keepers, and travelers who helped build the nation's economy. The towpath beneath your feet has witnessed nearly two centuries of American stories, from industrial revolution to recreational revolution.
Weather and SeasonsThe campsite transforms with the seasons, offering different experiences throughout the year. From mid-November through mid-April, the water spigots rest silent as winter's grip takes hold, making this a destination best suited for self-sufficient cold-weather campers during these months. Spring's arrival on April 15th brings the welcome sound of flowing water back to the site, signaling the start of prime camping season along the canal.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to dappled sunlight filtering through a canopy of mature trees that have watched over the canal for generations. The campsite's woodland setting creates a natural amphitheater of green, where the historic canal waters reflect the surrounding forest like a mirror to the past. Birds announce the dawn while the towpath stretches endlessly in both directions, inviting exploration. This pocket of wilderness offers an intimate encounter with the Mid-Atlantic's diverse ecosystem, where history and nature intertwine.
Geological RegionThe campground rests within a remarkable tapestry of natural and engineered landscapes that define the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park. Here, ancient geological forces shaped the terrain that 19th-century engineers would later transform with locks, aqueducts, and the canal itself. Woodlands dominate the immediate surroundings, punctuated by the ribbon of water that serves as both historical monument and wildlife corridor. This unique blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity creates a camping environment found nowhere else in the National Park system.
Campsite details
Sites SizeStandard-sized sites for basic tent setups.
Sites PrivacyModerate privacy with a natural, wooded environment.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Stay is limited to one night per site, per trip.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonWater is turned off from November 15 to April 15 each year, limiting some facilities during this time.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available for this site.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are provided on a first-come, first-served basis due to the non-reservable system.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not permitted at this site, so cancellation policies are not applicable.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is primarily designed for hikers and bikers along the C&O Canal Towpath. It provides easy access to trails and scenic canal views.
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed with available grills.
Hazards
General hazardsCampers should be aware of limited potable water and ensure they use purification tablets if necessary.
Active alertsNo active alerts are specified for this location.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.2 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
Nearest emergency services are not explicitly detailed in the source material.
Good to know
Peak season datesWater availability and other resources are seasonal, with services available from April 15 to November 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash service is not provided; campers must pack out all trash to maintain cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, providing easy access to this water feature.
Common complaintsNo significant complaints are detailed in the source materials.
Campground Map
Driving directionsDirect information about driving routes to the North Mountain Hiker-Biker Campsite is not provided in the source materials. However, more details about navigating to the campsite can be found at the official park website: http://www.nps.gov/choh/.
The information provided does not detail specific road types or terrain challenges for reaching this site, so accessibility details are unavailable.Nearby places
Nearby cities are not explicitly listed with distances in the information provided.
Nearby supplies
No information is available about the distance to or presence of nearby supplies such as groceries, fuel, or camping equipment.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
North Mountain Hiker-Biker Campsite has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campsite's basic amenities and its suitability for hikers and bikers. A few reviews particularly appreciate the site's location along the C&O Canal Towpath but note the limited hammock spots and the treated water source.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the campsite for being a convenient and cost-effective option for hikers and bikers. The availability of essential amenities, such as grills and picnic tables, is appreciated.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users noted the limited spots for hammocks and the lack of potable water, emphasizing the need for water purification tablets.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest carrying water purification tablets and being prepared for a basic camping experience.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campsite's usability greatly depends on the season. Water is only available from April 15 to November 15, and alternative preparations are necessary during the off-season.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'A bit of a hill to climb out of, but basic primitive site, limited hammock spots (3 ok spots) but could fit several tents. Typical table with fire ring. Porta John top of hill next to path, water...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025