Little Pool Campground

For Maryland residents and visitors looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Western Maryland, Little Pool Campground serves as a vital link to the state’s rich historical and outdoor landscape. Located within the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, this campground offers a primitive, "back-to-basics" experience that is increasingly rare in today’s modern world. Situated near the charming town of Hancock, Little Pool is specifically designed for those who appreciate the quiet rustle of the forest and the steady flow of the Potomac River. Whether you are a local resident of Washington County seeking a quick weekend escape or a long-distance traveler navigating the 184.5-mile towpath, this campsite provides a strategic and scenic resting point.

The campground is known for its proximity to the eponymous "Little Pool," a serene body of water that adds a picturesque quality to the site. Camping here is not just about finding a place to sleep; it is about engaging with the history of the region. The C&O Canal, once a bustling corridor for trade and transportation, now serves as a premier destination for hikers, bikers, and birdwatchers. Little Pool Campground captures this spirit of adventure, offering a peaceful environment where the only soundtrack is the local wildlife and the occasional passing cyclist. For Marylanders who take pride in their state’s heritage, staying at a hiker-biker site like Little Pool is a way to walk—and sleep—in the footsteps of history.

Location and Accessibility

Little Pool Campground is located in Hancock, MD, specifically at Milepost 120.4 of the C&O Canal towpath. This location is approximately 19 minutes from Hagerstown, making it easily accessible for Western Maryland residents. For those coming from further afield, it is a manageable drive from Frederick or Baltimore. The site is situated near the Western Maryland Rail Trail, providing an additional paved surface for those who prefer smooth cycling or walking over the traditional gravel of the towpath. Access to the campground from major roads like Interstate 70 is straightforward, with a footbridge located about half a mile south of the site that leads over the canal and railroad tracks to a designated parking area.

While the campground is categorized as a "hiker-biker" site, its proximity to parking makes it accessible for those who are willing to transport their gear a short distance. It is important for visitors to note that the site is primitive, meaning it does not feature paved roads directly to the tent pads. However, the site is designed with inclusivity in mind, providing an on-site parking lot to accommodate visitors. The flat terrain of the towpath itself makes the journey to the site manageable for people of various fitness levels, contributing to its reputation as a kid-friendly and accessible destination for families looking to introduce their children to the joys of the Maryland outdoors.

Services Offered

• Primitive tent sites designed for low-impact, overnight stays.
• Seasonal running water available via a hand pump (typically operational from mid-April through mid-November).
• Public restroom facilities (chemical toilets) maintained by the National Park Service.
• On-site parking for those accessing the trail from nearby I-70 or Hancock roads.
• First-come, first-served camping with no reservations required for hiker-biker guests.
• Access to the Potomac River for canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts.
• Information resources through the C&O Canal National Historical Park administrative office.

Features and Highlights

• Picnic tables at each site, ideal for group meals and evening socialization.
• Dedicated grill and fire rings for safe, contained campfires and outdoor cooking.
• Prime location for birdwatching and wildlife photography near the Little Pool Pond.
• Direct access to the 184.5-mile C&O Canal towpath for long-distance hiking and biking.
• Proximity to the historic town of Hancock, offering local dining, supplies, and bicycle shops.
• Pet-friendly environment where dogs are allowed on-leash to enjoy the trails with their owners.
• Quiet, shaded environment provided by a lush forest canopy, offering relief during hot summer months.
• Close proximity to the Western Maryland Rail Trail for a variety of terrain options.

Contact Information

The Little Pool Campground is managed as part of the C&O Canal National Historical Park. For inquiries regarding park conditions, water availability, or current alerts, visitors can contact the National Park Service through their primary information line.

Address: Hancock, MD 21750, USA (C&O Canal Milepost 120.4)

Phone: (301) 739-4200

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Little Pool Campground is a decision to embrace the authentic, rugged charm of the Maryland wilderness. For those who find joy in simplicity, this campground is a treasure. It is worth choosing specifically for its unparalleled access to both the Potomac River and the C&O Canal. Kayakers and canoers will find the water access points highly convenient, allowing for a unique perspective of the valley that is unavailable from the road. For families, the campground represents a cost-effective and educational way to spend a weekend; children can learn about the flora and fauna of the region, from the turtles in the pool to the historic lockhouses located just a short hike away.

Moreover, the sense of community among "towpath travelers" is a highlight of staying at Little Pool. Unlike traditional RV parks with high fences and individual hookups, this site encourages a shared experience among adventurers. You are likely to meet fellow cyclists sharing tips about the next 50 miles or families enjoying their first primitive camping trip. While the site is primitive—requiring visitors to forage for firewood and occasionally manage the realities of nature like uneven terrain or local wildlife—it provides a level of peace that more developed parks cannot match. If you are looking for a place where you can truly disconnect from technology and reconnect with the landscape of Maryland, Little Pool Campground is an excellent choice. Its proximity to the town of Hancock also means that if you forget a crucial piece of gear or crave a hot meal, civilization is never more than a short bike ride away, providing a perfect safety net for the novice camper.

Ultimately, Little Pool Campground is a testament to Maryland’s commitment to preserving natural spaces. It offers a no-frills, high-impact connection to the environment that rewards the prepared traveler with beautiful sunsets over the water and a deep sense of accomplishment. For those who value the journey as much as the destination, this little corner of Hancock is a must-visit.