Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite
4.1745 reviews.
Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
Peak season tent-only fee is $20. Non-peak season tent-only rate drops to $10.
About this campground
Nestled at Mile 156 of the historic C&O Canal Towpath, Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This primitive campground serves as your gateway to the legendary Paw Paw Tunnel trail, where towering rock walls echo with centuries of history. With the mighty Potomac River flowing nearby, you'll fall asleep to nature's symphony and wake to misty mornings that promise new discoveries along the storied towpath.
The Paw Paw Tunnel Campground is a primitive camping site offering basic facilities for tent camping. RVs are not accommodated, and the campground is suitable for small group camping. No cabins or glamping options are available.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the remarkable Paw Paw Tunnel, an awe-inspiring feat of 19th-century engineering that stands as one of the C&O Canal's crown jewels. This 3,118-foot marvel, carved through solid rock by determined workers over 14 years, tells the story of America's ambitious canal era. As you walk through its darkened passage with only your flashlight piercing the shadows, you're literally passing through the same corridor that once guided mule-drawn boats carrying coal and goods to growing cities.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythms of Western Maryland's climate, where sun-drenched days give way to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire stories. While the region enjoys predominantly dry conditions, occasional rain showers breathe life into the forest, releasing the earthy scent of pine and oak. During peak season, you'll discover why generations of outdoor enthusiasts return here—warm afternoons ideal for riverside exploration transition into crisp nights that demand a cozy sleeping bag and perhaps an extra layer.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await your personal discovery, the campsite's position along the canal towpath ensures relatively level terrain perfect for cyclists and hikers of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Western Maryland's mountain country, where your campsite sits cradled between the sprawling wilderness of Green Ridge State Forest and the serpentine curves of the Potomac River. This natural amphitheater transforms with the seasons—spring brings wildflower carpets, summer offers lush green canopies, and autumn stages a spectacular show as hardwood forests burst into flames of gold, crimson, and amber. Wake early to catch mist rising from the river, or spend twilight hours watching eagles soar above the ridge lines that have stood sentinel here for millennia.
Geological RegionYour camping adventure unfolds in the heart of Western Maryland's mountain country, where ancient geological forces sculpted a landscape of ridges and valleys. Bordered by the vast Green Ridge State Forest—70,000 acres of public land riddled with hidden hollows and scenic overlooks—and traced by the timeless Potomac River, this region showcases the raw beauty of Appalachian geology. The surrounding mountains tell a story written in stone, from prehistoric seabeds to the patient work of water carving passages through solid rock.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited. The campground is described as primitive with no paved paths. Portable toilets and hand-pump water access may pose challenges to individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are generally considered small to medium-sized, and each accommodates up to eight people.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited as campsites are located in an open grassy field with no significant tree cover or natural barriers.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 10 offers proximity to the trailhead and the river but lacks privacy. Site 2 is spacious with room for multiple tents.
Best CampsitesReviews mention site 2 as spacious, allowing multiple tents.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM ET
Check-out
12:00 PM ET
Stay Limit
- 14 consecutive nights allowed per visit
- annual maximum stay is 30 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each single site accommodates up to 8 people.
Groups
- No designated group sites
- larger groups may book multiple adjacent individual sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in an open grassy field with posts marking different spots. Limited privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 16 - December 31 annually. Water availability April 15 - November 1.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation on first-come-first-served availability is null.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before arrival incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee and incur an additional $10 service fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to the Paw Paw Tunnel Campground can enjoy several outdoor activities. These include hiking on the Paw Paw Tunnel trails and the C&O Canal Towpath, biking along the towpath, kayaking on the Potomac River, and fishing (Maryland Fishing License required for those aged 16 and older). The campground's location near the Potomac River offers opportunities for nature observation. 'The tunnel trail is amazing, offering scenic views of the Potomac River and valley,' according to one review. Reviews also highlight bird-watching opportunities, including sightings of deer, turkeys, woodpeckers, and geese. Swimming in the Potomac River is accessible but not officially designated as an activity.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include the Paw Paw Tunnel trails and the C&O Canal Towpath. Trails offer a mix of moderate to strenuous difficulty levels and provide scenic views. 'The tunnel is a fun and easy hike,' said one reviewer, while another mentioned, 'The trail overtop has amazing views.'Fishing
Fishing is permitted along the nearby Potomac River. A Maryland Fishing License is required for participants aged 16 and older.Biking
The C&O Canal Towpath offers biking opportunities. It is a well-traveled path, accessible directly from the campground.Boating
Boating activities such as kayaking are popular, with a boat ramp located nearby in the town of Paw Paw, WV.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with mentions of deer, turkeys, woodpeckers, rabbits, and geese in the area.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited due to the campground's primitive nature and the seasonal closure of water facilities.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking and fishing are common activities at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires permitted in designated fire rings only. Fallen timber may be used for firewood; chainsaws prohibited.
- Quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsProximity to road noise and train tracks may disturb sleep. Wildlife like small critters may pose minor nuisances. Porta-potties occasionally reported as unclean.
Active alertsOccasional construction at or near the Paw Paw Tunnel may restrict full access.
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
Closest emergency services details are null.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 16 - November 15 (peak season dates for higher pricing).
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available. The campground follows a 'Leave No Trace' policy, and campers are required to pack out all trash and waste.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the Potomac River for kayaking and fishing.
Common complaintsNoise from road and train tracks; porta-potties cleanliness issues; crowded sites during peak times.
HostDetails about campground hosts are null.
Campground Map
.
Driving directionsFrom Cumberland, MD: Follow MD-51 S/E Industrial Road for approximately 24 miles. Campground will be directly off 51, on the left side of the road.
Accessible directly via MD-51. Roads are paved and accessibility is straightforward for all vehicles.Nearby places
Cumberland, MD (25 miles west), Paw Paw, WV (across Potomac River, near campground)
Nearby supplies
Dollar General nearby
nearby town access for basic supplies and restaurants
Green Ridge State Forest for recreation.
Camper Reviews
4.2
45 reviews
Paw Paw Tunnel Campsite is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Paw Paw Tunnel Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment score of 3.57 specifically for the campground experience. Positive comments highlight the natural beauty of the location, proximity to the Paw Paw Tunnel, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. Negative feedback often points to the lack of privacy, maintenance issues (e.g., non-functioning water pump), and noise from nearby roads and trains.
Review Summaries
Based on 45 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include: 'Clean and well-maintained,' 'Convenient access to hiking trails and the Potomac River,' and 'Great for family or group camping.' Several reviewers...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include: 'Non-functioning water pump,' 'Limited privacy between campsites,' 'Noise from the nearby road and train tracks,' 'Inadequate enforcement of camping permits,' and 'Trash...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing your own potable water and hand sanitizer. A flashlight is essential for exploring the Paw Paw Tunnel. Early arrival is advised to secure parking, as the lot fills quickly....
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Autumn is highlighted as the most beautiful season due to vibrant foliage. However, summer reviews note increased crowding and maintenance issues. Winter stays are less common due to the seasonal...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The tunnel trail is amazing, offering scenic views of the Potomac River and valley.' 2. 'The campground is situated in an open grassy field with no significant tree cover or natural barriers.' 3....
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 2: 'Large enough to fit multiple tents, but was left in a dirty condition by previous campers.' Campsite 10: 'Chose it for privacy, but it was less than 15 feet from the next site.' Campsite...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No detailed accessibility reviews are available, but the primitive nature of the campground and lack of paved paths may limit ease of access for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 45 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and users note the convenience of bringing dogs. However, owners must ensure pets are leashed and waste is packed out.
Based on 45 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025