Horseshoe Bend Hiker-Biker Campsite

For outdoor enthusiasts traveling through the historic heart of Washington County, Horseshoe Bend Hiker-Biker Campsite offers a peaceful and primitive retreat along the banks of the Potomac River. As part of the extensive Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal National Historical Park, this campsite is a dedicated haven for those exploring the 184.5-mile towpath by foot or by bicycle. For Marylanders and visitors alike, Horseshoe Bend represents a unique opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Potomac Valley while following in the footsteps of the nineteenth-century canal workers who once traversed these very same paths.

The campsite derives its name from the dramatic U-shaped curve in the Potomac River, known as Horseshoe Bend, located near mile marker 79 of the towpath. This specific stretch of the canal is cherished for its lush greenery and the gentle sound of the river flowing nearby. Unlike developed commercial campgrounds, Horseshoe Bend provides a "back-to-basics" experience that emphasizes self-sufficiency and deep immersion in nature. Whether you are attempting a multi-day journey from Cumberland to Georgetown or simply looking for a quiet overnight stay during a local Sharpsburg weekend, this site provides the essential infrastructure needed for a restorative night under the Maryland stars.

Location and accessibility are primary considerations for anyone visiting Horseshoe Bend. The campsite is situated at mile 79.2 on the C&O Canal towpath, nestled near the town of Sharpsburg, Maryland. It is important to note that this site is strictly a "hiker-biker" facility, meaning it is not accessible by car. This exclusivity ensures a quiet, vehicle-free environment that preserves the historical integrity of the park. Travelers typically reach the site via the towpath, with the closest vehicle access points located about a mile away at Snyders Landing or Taylors Landing. These access points provide parking for those who wish to hike or bike into the campsite for their stay.

For those approaching from the river, the site is accessible to kayakers and canoeists, though the climb from the riverbank to the level camping area can be steep and requires caution. The terrain around the campsite is generally flat and wooded, providing ample shade and wind protection. While the site is welcoming to all, it is primitive in nature; the lack of paved surfaces and the distance from parking lots mean that users with mobility equipment should plan for a rugged, off-road experience. For most Maryland residents, the journey to Horseshoe Bend is half the fun, involving a scenic trek through the wooded corridors that define this region of the state.

Horseshoe Bend Hiker-Biker Campsite provides essential services intended to support travelers on the move. As a free, first-come, first-served facility managed by the National Park Service, the focus is on maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety in a remote setting. The services offered include:

• Dedicated, level tent sites featuring well-maintained "comfy green grass" for a comfortable night's rest.
• Access to a chemical toilet (portable toilet) that is regularly serviced by park maintenance staff.
• A hand-operated water pump providing water that is treated with iodine to ensure it is safe for consumption (seasonal availability).
• Regular maintenance of the campsite grounds to clear brush and ensure a safe environment for tents.
• On-site trash guidelines following "Leave No Trace" principles, helping to keep Maryland's parks pristine.
• First-come, first-served availability with no reservations required, offering flexibility for long-distance travelers.
• Occasional monitoring by National Park Service rangers to ensure the safety of all campers.

The features and highlights of Horseshoe Bend reflect the best of Maryland’s wilderness. This site is frequently cited by travelers as one of the better-maintained primitive stops along the canal. Key highlights include:

• Sturdy picnic tables that provide a central gathering spot for meals and gear organization.
• Established fire rings and grills, allowing for safe campfires (dependent on seasonal fire restrictions).
• Excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography, with frequent sightings of eagles, herons, and deer.
• Kid-friendly environment that allows younger adventurers to learn about canal history and ecology firsthand.
• Proximity to the Potomac River, offering soothing views and access for fishing or resting by the water.
• Plentiful supply of dead and downed wood nearby for those inclined to have a small evening fire.
• Secluded atmosphere that provides a sense of isolation while being only a few miles from the services in Sharpsburg.

For those planning a stay, it is helpful to keep the contact information for the National Park Service handy, as they can provide updates on water availability and park conditions. The campsite is located in the Sharpsburg area, and general inquiries can be directed to the C&O Canal headquarters:

• Address: Sharpsburg, MD 21782, USA (Located at Mile 79.2 of the C&O Towpath)
• Phone: (301) 739-4200 (National Park Service Information)
• Official Website: National Park Service - C&O Canal National Historical Park

What is worth choosing about Horseshoe Bend Hiker-Biker Campsite is the pure, unadulterated access to Maryland’s history and nature. In a world of crowded resorts and high-priced campgrounds, Horseshoe Bend offers a rare opportunity for a free, high-quality outdoor experience. It is worth choosing for the traveler who values the sound of the river over the hum of an air conditioner and who finds joy in the simplicity of a well-placed picnic table and a clear night sky. The site’s location at mile 79.2 makes it a perfect midpoint for those exploring the section between Williamsport and Harpers Ferry.

Furthermore, the sense of camaraderie found at hiker-biker sites is unique. It is a place where you are likely to meet fellow Marylanders and travelers from across the country, sharing stories of the trail and tips for the road ahead. The "too good for a free site" quality—as noted by many visitors—is a testament to the dedication of the National Park Service and the respect shown by the community of hikers and bikers. Choosing Horseshoe Bend means choosing to participate in a long-standing Maryland tradition of outdoor stewardship and adventure. Whether you are resting your legs after a long day in the saddle or teaching your children the basics of tent camping, this site in Sharpsburg provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable Maryland journey.