Overview

The Spring Gap Campground is located at Mile 173.3 on the C&O Canal Towpath, near the city of Cumberland on the Maryland side of the Potomac River. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Facilities

Spring Gap Campground offers 12 single drive-in campsites and two drive-in group sites. Campsites 1, 2, 8, 11 and 13 can fit a single vehicle (i.e., car/pickup/van). Campsites 3-7, 12, 14 can fit a small 20 ft. length or smaller RV/trailer/pop-up. Single sites can accommodate up to eight people. Each single has a picnic table, fire pit and grill. Campsites 9 and 10 are group sites capable of holding 30 people each. The group site has room for two vehicles. The group site has four picnic tables, a fire pit and grill. Pit and portable toilets are available. Hand pump water is available April 15 - November 1.

Natural Features

Recreation

The most popular activities for Spring Gap campers are hiking the local trails, biking the C&O Canal Towpath, paddling and fishing. The campground has a boat ramp for easy access to the Potomac River for kayakers and anglers alike. Be sure to acquire a Maryland Fishing License for those age 16 or older.

Nearby Attractions

The C&O Canal National Historical Park Cumberland Visitor Center is in Cumberland, MD, open seven days a week. Also in Cumberland, MD: the Allegany Museum, Gordon-Roberts House, Gilchrist Gallery and the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad are all worth a visit.

Contact Info

Important Notices

• Water and Hygiene. The hand pump well is turned on April 15 - October 31. Please bring water for use if camping between November 1 - April 14. Bring a backup supply of potable water as pump handles may not be in place at all times. Restrooms will be cleaned twice weekly. Please bring your own hand sanitizer, soap and toilet paper as these items have been the subject of theft.

• Campfires. Fires are permitted only in established fire rings. Please ensure that your fire is extinguished completely each time you leave the area.

• Firewood. The cutting or defacing of any live growth is strictly prohibited. Kiln fired or dried wood may be brought into the park. Fallen dead timber in the park may be used for on-site firewood. Bring handsaws to cut fallen wood. Chainsaws are prohibited. Park Rangers reserve the right to ban all fires during periods of drought.

• Quiet Hours. Please observe quiet hours between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

• Alcohol & Marijuana. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited. Marijuana is illegal on federal property.

• Pets are allowed in the campgrounds. They must be restrained by a 6 ft. leash at all times and their waste must be picked up and taken with the owner.

• Remove All Trash. The park is a 'Trash Free Park' and trash cans are not provided. Trash must be picked up and the area left in a clean condition before the group departs. Bring trash bags.

• Emergencies. If someone is "squatting" in your campsite OR for emergencies, please call the National Capital Region Communications Center at 1-866-677-6677.

Notifications and Alerts

• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in all Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park campgrounds.

Available Activities

• HIKING - Hiking
• FISHING - Fishing
• CAMPING - Camping
• BIKING - Biking

Directions

<p><strong>From Cumberland, MD:</strong> Follow MD State Route 51 South/East Industrial Road for approximately 7 miles (11 km). Spring Gap Campground will be directly off 51, on the right side of the road.</p>

Contact Information

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip