McCoys Ferry Campground

McCoys Ferry Campground is a cherished destination for Marylanders seeking a peaceful escape into the heart of Western Maryland’s natural beauty. Situated at Mile 110.4 of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, this campground serves as a perfect blend of recreational fun and historical significance. For locals, passing through the narrow stone tunnel to enter the campground is a ritual that feels like entering a hidden world where the Potomac River sets the pace of the day. Whether you are a dedicated thru-hiker on the C&O Canal Towpath, a family looking for a weekend of fishing, or a local scout troop exploring Maryland’s history, McCoys Ferry offers a park-like setting that feels remarkably secluded despite its accessibility.

The campground is uniquely positioned between the towns of Big Pool and Big Spring, providing a serene environment on the banks of the Potomac. It is a drive-in facility, which is a rare and valued feature for campgrounds along the canal, allowing for a more comfortable experience for those with extra gear or small trailers. The area is lush with greenery and high-canopy trees, providing ample shade during the warm Maryland summers. From the early morning mist over the river to the evening sounds of local owls and woodpeckers, McCoys Ferry provides an immersive outdoor experience that captures the quiet majesty of Washington County. It is a place where history, nature, and community come together, offering a reliable retreat for those who appreciate the simple joys of a campfire and a waterfront view.

Located at 10700 Mc Coys Ferry Rd, Clear Spring, MD 21722, the campground is easily reached by Maryland residents from across the state. For those coming from Hagerstown or Frederick, the drive is a straightforward trip west on I-70, taking Exit 18 toward Clear Spring. The final approach involves a scenic drive through the local countryside, ending at the iconic railroad tunnel that leads into the recreation area. It is important for visitors to note that this tunnel has a height clearance of 10 feet 3 inches, which is a crucial detail for those bringing campers or roof-mounted equipment. The campground is also a prime stop for those traveling the C&O Canal Towpath by foot or bicycle, as it sits directly adjacent to the trail.

Accessibility is well-integrated into the campground’s design, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the Potomac shoreline. The facility features wheelchair-accessible parking lots, entrances, and restrooms. A paved boat launch is available for those looking to get out on the water, providing easy access for kayaks, canoes, and small motorized boats. The layout of the campground consists of a single-lane road with sites distributed on either side, most of which offer clear views of the river. While the location feels remote, its proximity to Fort Frederick State Park (just a few miles east) means that guests are never far from additional historical education and recreational facilities.

McCoys Ferry Campground provides essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable, "back-to-basics" camping experience. The management ensures that the fundamental needs of campers are met through well-maintained communal facilities. Services offered include:

• Drive-in campsite management with 12 single sites and one large group site available by reservation.
• Potable water access through a seasonal hand pump (available typically from mid-April through mid-November).
• On-site boat launch services for easy entry into the Potomac River.
• Waste management through a strict "Trash Free Park" policy, encouraging guests to pack out what they pack in.
• Regular cleaning of restrooms and latrines to ensure high hygiene standards for all visitors.
• Firewood delivery services provided by local vendors just outside the park entrance for guest convenience.
• Online reservation services through the federal recreation portal to secure sites in advance.
• RV water hookup availability for smaller rigs and self-contained vehicles.

The features and highlights of McCoys Ferry make it a standout choice for an authentic Maryland outdoor adventure. From its proximity to historic landmarks to its abundance of wildlife, the campground offers several key highlights:

• Waterfront and water-view campsites that allow guests to sleep just yards away from the Potomac River banks.
• Direct access to the C&O Canal Towpath, offering miles of flat, scenic terrain for hiking and biking.
• Individual site amenities including a sturdy picnic table, a heavy-duty fire ring, and a standing charcoal grill.
• Diverse wildlife watching opportunities, with frequent sightings of cormorants, woodpeckers, and eagles along the river corridor.
• A spacious group campsite capable of accommodating up to 30 people, ideal for organizations and large family reunions.
• Kid-friendly hiking trails and flat areas that are perfect for young children to explore safely.
• Pet-friendly policies that welcome dogs on leashes, making it a true family-wide getaway.
• Level parking pads at each site designed to accommodate small RVs or pop-up campers up to 20 feet in length.
• On-site picnic areas for day-use visitors looking to enjoy a lunch by the river.

To plan your stay or inquire about current river conditions and site availability, visitors can contact the National Park Service or use the official reservation system. As an unstaffed location, direct communication is handled through the regional park headquarters.

• Address: 10700 Mc Coys Ferry Rd, Clear Spring, MD 21722, USA
• Main Information Line: (301) 739-4200
• Reservations: Available through Recreation.gov
• Check-in Time: 1:00 PM | Check-out Time: 12:00 PM

Choosing McCoys Ferry Campground is worth it for anyone who values an authentic connection to Maryland’s landscape and history. Unlike highly commercialized RV resorts, McCoys Ferry offers a "hidden gem" experience where the primary entertainment is the river and the trail. It is worth choosing because of its incredible value—offering riverfront access and clean facilities for a very modest camping fee. The unique drive-in nature of the sites along the canal makes it significantly more convenient than "hike-in" sites for families with young children or those who enjoy the comfort of a small camper.

Furthermore, the location is a gateway to the broader history of the region. Being so close to the C&O Canal's engineering marvels and the living history at Fort Frederick adds an educational layer to your vacation that is uniquely Maryland. While the occasional passing train provides a reminder of the area's industrial heritage, the overall atmosphere is one of profound peace. For Marylanders looking to rediscover the Potomac or embark on a multi-day biking trip, McCoys Ferry Campground stands out as a reliable, scenic, and deeply rewarding choice for an outdoor stay.