Purslane Run Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite
02 reviewsPurslane Run 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
No fees are charged for this campsite.
About this campground
Nestled at Mile 156.9 along the historic C&O Canal Towpath, Purslane Run Campsite offers weary hikers and cyclists a peaceful overnight retreat in the heart of Western Maryland. This rustic hiker-biker site embraces the simplicity of outdoor living, featuring essential amenities including a sturdy picnic table for evening meals under the stars, a grill for campfire cooking, and a chemical toilet for convenience. Fresh drinking water is available on-site, treated with iodine to ensure safety for all adventurers passing through.
This is a primitive campsite designed for hikers and bikers requiring minimal facilities. It is not reservable and is intended for short stays only.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at this campsite within the storied C&O Canal National Historical Park, where the echoes of mule-drawn canal boats and the dreams of 19th-century commerce still linger. This preserved transportation corridor once connected the bustling port of Georgetown to the coal fields of Cumberland, serving as a vital lifeline for growing America. Today, the towpath tells tales of canal lock keepers, boat captains, and the mules that pulled cargo-laden vessels through 184.5 miles of American history.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the changing face of the Potomac Valley as seasons transform this woodland sanctuary. From mid-November through mid-April, water systems are winterized to protect against freezing temperatures, reminding visitors to pack extra water during these months. Spring brings wildflowers and migrating birds, while summer offers lush green canopies and warm evenings perfect for stargazing. Autumn paints the surrounding forest in brilliant golds and crimsons, creating a photographer's paradise. Smart campers come prepared with seasonal gear to fully embrace whatever Mother Nature offers.
ElevationThe campsite rests at a gentle elevation along the Potomac River corridor, where the landscape begins its gradual rise toward the Appalachian ridges. This prime positioning offers comfortable camping conditions while providing easy access to the level towpath that has welcomed travelers for generations.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by a cathedral of mature hardwoods, Purslane Run Campsite immerses visitors in the pristine beauty of the Potomac River valley. The historic canal parallels the mighty Potomac, creating a dual waterway that attracts diverse wildlife including great blue herons, white-tailed deer, and countless songbirds. Morning mists often rise from the water, creating ethereal scenes that reward early risers. The dense forest canopy provides natural shade and a sense of seclusion, while breaks in the trees reveal stunning river vistas that change with every season.
Geological RegionPositioned within the remarkable Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, the campsite occupies a fascinating geological transition zone where the Potomac River has carved its path between ancient mountain ridges. This Western Maryland location showcases the dramatic topography where the Atlantic Coastal Plain meets the Appalachian Mountains, creating a landscape of river terraces, exposed rock formations, and forested slopes. The interplay between the engineered canal and natural river systems offers visitors a unique perspective on both human ingenuity and geological forces that have shaped this region over millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no information regarding specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe site size is not explicitly documented, but it is designed to accommodate hikers and bikers.
Sites PrivacyNo specific mention of privacy, though the campsite is noted to have basic facilities.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers are advised to bring water purification tablets and plan for a singular overnight stay.
Best CampsitesOnly one campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Stay limited to 1 night per site, per trip.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified, but the campsite is optimized for small groups.
Groups
There are no group-specific camping options provided for Purslane Run.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle site layout optimized for hikers and bikers.
Open and Closed SeasonWater fixtures are turned off from November 15 to April 15 annually. Campers should bring water purification systems.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations required.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served basis, as reservations are not required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations cannot be made, hence no cancellation policy is applicable.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a rustic outdoor experience with emphasis on hiking and cycling along the canal towpath. Recreational opportunities are limited to self-guided activities given the lack of organized programs or events.
Hiking
The campsite is along the C&O Canal Towpath, which is one of the most famous trails in the region, offering scenic views and access to surrounding natural sites.Biking
The campsite is situated along the C&O Canal Towpath, which is a popular biking trail.Winter Activities
Not applicable since the campsite is not accessible during winter due to water being off from November 15 to April 15.Water Sports
No information is provided about water sports activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are permitted only in provided grills. Campers should extinguish fires before leaving.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsWater risks near the Potomac River and potential wildlife encounters. Campers should exercise caution.
Active alertsNo specific alerts, though water fixtures are unavailable during colder months.
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 contact numbers are provided for general emergencies: (866) 677-6677 or 911. More localized options not specified.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season not mentioned.
Trash and recyclingThe campsite does not include trash cans as part of a 'Trash Free Park' policy, and visitors are required to carry out their garbage.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Potomac River.
Common complaintsUser reviews have noted the lack of privacy and potential water availability issues.
HostNo campsite host is available.
Campground Map
Driving directionsDriving directions are available on the official site: http://www.nps.gov/choh/. The campsite is situated at Mile 156.9 along the C&O Canal Towpath.
Access to the campground is along the towpath trail. No vehicle access is directly available.Nearby places
The nearest city is Hagerstown, MD. Additional nearby towns are not specified.
Nearby supplies
Closest supply locations are not mentioned. Campers are advised to bring water purification tablets as water is treated with iodine at site.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Purslane Run Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Purslane Run is considered a basic, less-visited campsite with mixed user sentiments. The average sentiment for campgrounds is 3.5 stars.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Some users appreciated the campsite's privacy and its location close to the Potomac River, with one user highlighting the 'trail to a private beach on the Potomac.'
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Users mentioned issues such as daddy longlegs spiders outside tents and the lack of comprehensive facilities as common drawbacks.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Recommended for those needing a quick one-night stop while biking or hiking along the towpath. Carry purification tablets for water.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campsite is not available for use during winter (November 15 to April 15) due to the water being turned off.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Very nice campsite. A little more private than others because there is a short entry way from the trail to the campsite.' - Andrew Baker 2. 'We did awake to many daddy longlegs on the outside of...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site reviews or numbers are provided.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific user feedback on accessibility features is available.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific data on pet-related experiences has been provided.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025