Camping at Antietam Creek Campsite

Antietam Creek Campsite Overview

Location: Antietam Creek Campsite is located along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, often referred to as the C&O Canal Towpath, near Sharpsburg, Maryland. It is situated conveniently for those interested in Civil War history, as it is in close proximity to the Antietam National Battlefield.

Accessibility: The campsite is designed to be accessible by bike or on foot via the towpath. It is one of the "hiker-biker" campsites that are available approximately every 5 to 7 miles along the C&O Canal.

Reservations and Fees:

• Most hiker-biker campsites along the C&O Canal, including Antietam Creek, are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• There are no fees to use these sites for camping.
• No reservations are needed or taken for individuals or small groups, but larger groups may be required to obtain a permit.

Facilities and Amenities

Campsite Features:

• The campsite typically features a flat area for tents, a picnic table, and a fire ring.
• There is usually a water source nearby, but water is not guaranteed year-round and may not be potable, so it's a good idea to carry a water filter or purification method.
• A primitive toilet, either a pit toilet or a porta-john, is usually available.

Nearby Facilities:

• The nearby town of Sharpsburg and other small towns along the towpath can provide additional amenities like food, water, and emergency supplies.
• Antietam National Battlefield is a short distance away for those interested in exploring the historic site.

Camping Etiquette and Regulations

Campsite Regulations:

• Campfires are generally permitted in designated fire rings, but it's wise to verify the current fire regulations before starting one.
• Collecting firewood from the park is typically prohibited to prevent resource damage; bring your own or gather dead and down wood from outside the park boundaries.
• Leave No Trace principles should be followed, which means all trash and belongings should be packed out.

Noise and Privacy:

• Quiet hours are typically enforced from sunset to sunrise.
• Privacy can be limited as the campsites are designed for communal use and are usually not secluded.

Safety and Considerations

Wildlife: Be mindful of wildlife and store food properly. The park is home to raccoons, bears, and other animals that can be attracted to food odors.

Weather: Always check the weather before embarking on your trip. Being next to the creek means the area might be prone to flooding after heavy rainfall, so be aware of the weather forecast and flood warnings.

Trail Conditions:

• The towpath can be muddy or flooded in places, depending on recent weather.
• Fallen tree branches or other debris can sometimes obstruct the path, requiring caution.

Contact Information

For the most current information or any inquiries, it's best to contact the:

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park:

• Address: 1850 Dual Highway, Suite 100, Hagerstown, MD 21740
• Phone: (301) 739-4200
• Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/choh/index.htm

Before heading out to Antietam Creek Campsite or any other area within the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, it's best practice to verify the latest information regarding campsite status, regulations, and safety advisories.