Licking Creek Hiker Biker Campsite

For outdoor enthusiasts traveling through Western Maryland, the Licking Creek Hiker Biker Campsite serves as a vital sanctuary along one of the nation’s most historic corridors. Situated within the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park near Big Pool, Maryland, this campsite is specifically designed to meet the needs of those navigating the 184.5-mile towpath by foot or bicycle. As a primitive camping area, it offers a simple, no-cost refuge that allows travelers to rest and recharge while immersed in the natural beauty of the Potomac River Valley. For local Marylanders and through-travelers alike, Licking Creek provides a quiet spot to experience the heritage of the canal era firsthand.

The campsite is widely recognized for its spacious layout, featuring a large grassy area bordered by mature trees that offer a sense of privacy from the main trail. While many primitive sites along the C&O Canal can feel tucked away, Licking Creek is noted for its open feel, making it a popular choice for larger groups of cyclists or families looking for a bit more room to spread out their gear. Despite its proximity to modern infrastructure, the site maintains a peaceful character, where the sounds of the nearby creek and the rustle of the forest canopy dominate the environment. It is an ideal representation of the "hiker-biker" lifestyle, prioritizing utility and natural scenery over commercial amenities.

Location and accessibility are the defining features of Licking Creek Hiker Biker Campsite. Located at Mile 116.0 of the C&O Canal Towpath in Big Pool, MD, the site is perfectly positioned for those moving between the major hubs of Williamsport and Hancock. Access to the site is exclusively via the towpath, ensuring a car-free environment that is safe for pedestrians and cyclists. Travelers should note that reaching the campsite from the trail involves navigating a notably steep hill, which can be a challenging but manageable task for those with fully loaded bicycles. Its location near the intersection of the Licking Creek Aqueduct and the towpath adds a layer of historical interest, as visitors can easily explore the masonry work of the 19th-century canal infrastructure just steps from their tents.

As a primitive National Park Service facility, the services offered at Licking Creek are focused on the essentials of self-supported travel. There are no reservations required, as the site operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with a strict one-night maximum stay policy to ensure that through-travelers always have a place to rest. The following services and logistical details apply to the site:

• Free overnight camping for hikers and bikers traveling along the C&O Canal.
• First-come, first-served site selection with no reservation fees or permits needed.
• Running water provided via a traditional hand pump, available seasonally from mid-April to mid-November.
• Chemical toilet (porta-potty) facilities available for public use year-round.
• Designated tent sites located on a well-maintained grassy lawn.
• A strict "Pack In, Pack Out" policy for all trash and recyclables to preserve the park's environment.

The features and highlights of Licking Creek highlight its role as a functional and scenic stopover. It is particularly well-suited for families due to the level ground and the abundance of space for children to play safely away from the water's edge. The site combines the utility of a trail-side camp with the charm of a forest retreat. Key features include:

• Sturdy picnic tables provided for communal dining and gear organization.
• Designated grills or fire rings at the site for evening cookouts (seasonal fire restrictions may apply).
• High-quality hand pump water, frequently cited by travelers as one of the more reliable pumps on this section of the trail.
• Kid-friendly atmosphere with plenty of space for activities and easy access to kid-friendly hikes along the towpath.
• Exceptional privacy from the main trail due to the natural tree line and site elevation.
• Proximity to the Licking Creek Aqueduct, offering a unique look at Maryland’s civil engineering history.
• Direct access to miles of hiking and biking trails that showcase the diverse wildlife of the Potomac River basin.

For those planning their itinerary along the canal, the campsite is located in Big Pool, MD 21711. While there is no direct phone line to the primitive campsite itself, visitors can contact the National Park Service for trail conditions and alerts:

• Location: Big Pool, MD 21711, USA (Mile 116.0 on the C&O Canal Towpath)
• National Historical Park Information: (301) 739-4200

Licking Creek Hiker Biker Campsite is worth choosing for several practical reasons. For long-distance cyclists, the reliability of the water pump is a major factor; having a functional source of water (though non-potable and requiring treatment) can be a lifesaver on hot Maryland summer days. Additionally, the site's layout provides a better sense of community than smaller, more cramped sites along the trail. It is common to meet fellow travelers from across the country, creating a shared sense of adventure at the evening campfire. The site’s elevation and tree cover also provide a natural buffer, making it feel like a true wilderness escape despite being within hearing distance of the regional travel corridors.

Ultimately, the appeal of Licking Creek lies in its simplicity and its location. For a Marylander looking to introduce their children to the joys of bike-packing or hiking, this site offers a manageable and rewarding destination. The combination of open space, historical context near the aqueduct, and the fundamental amenities needed for a safe night under the stars makes it a standout choice among the 31 hiker-biker sites along the canal. Whether you are stopping for a quick rest or setting up camp for the night, Licking Creek Hiker Biker Campsite offers a quintessential Western Maryland outdoor experience that is both accessible and authentic.