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Marsden Tract Group Campsite

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Maryland

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As of September 2026, Marsden Tract Group Campsite is a campground in Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Maryland with 6 campsites. Marsden Tract Group Campsite is booked through Recreation.gov.

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Marsden Tract Group Campsite is located at 38.9787° N, 77.2161° W.

people allowed on each site: 30

Marsden Tract Group Campsite reservations and next available dates

September 2026

October 2026

open, tap to book on Recreation.govsold outin your alert

Stay and booking rules

Mid-stay changes allowed
Maximum consecutive stay: 14 consecutive days
Maximum stay: 30 days

Published by Recreation.gov for Marsden Tract Group Campsite, read on September 30, 2026.

Campsites at Marsden Tract Group Campsite

123456

Tent 6

Amenities

restrooms
potable water

At a glance: Setting: River.

Things to do: fishing, hiking, climbing.

All sites at Marsden Tract Group Campsite, as listed by Recreation.gov

Every site is in the Marsden Tract Group Campsite loop.

Site	Type	Sleeps
001	Tent	30
002	Tent	30
003	Tent	30
004	Tent	30
005	Tent	30
006	Tent	30

About Marsden Tract Group Campsite

Overview

Scouts built the Marsden Tract Group Campground to provide access to larger campsites within easy commuting distance of the D.C. Metro area. It is located at Mile 11.5 on the C&O Canal Towpath, between the Carderock Recreation Area and the historic Old Anglers Inn (private).

The group campsites are nestled in the woods between the Canal and the Potomac River and they are a short distance from many recreational opportunities. Fishing, rock climbing, paddling and hiking are but a few possibilities while staying at Marsden Tract. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Recreation

The most popular activity for Marsden Tract campers is hiking the three sections (A, B and C) of the Billy Goat Trail, one of the most popular and challenging rock hikes in the east. There are also many woodland trails for beginners and experts alike. Fishing is also a popular pastime in both the C&O Canal and the Potomac River. Be sure to acquire a Maryland fishing license for those age 16 or older. Virginia licenses are approved for fishing in the Potomac only.

Facilities

The campground has six group campsites; all will accommodate up to 30 campers at each site. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring. Potable water is located a short walk up the towpath and across the footbridge heading towards MacArthur Blvd (water may not be available during cold winter months). Portable toilets are located near Campsite 1.

No vehicle traffic is allowed on the towpath and access to the campsites is by foot only.

Carderock Recreation Area or Angler's Inn are the two closest parking areas. Each is a one-mile walk respectively. There are flush toilets located at the Angler's parking area (temporarily closed). There is a temporary stopping area on MacArthur Blvd near the intersection of Brickyard Rd. This area may be used to off-load gear and be walked down the hill, however overnight parking in this area is not permitted.

Natural Features

Marsden Tract Group Campsite is just south of the Great Falls of the Potomac and Mather Gorge. These two stunning features provide an excellent example of local geology while showing the sheer force and power of nature.

Contact Info

This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (301) 739-4200.

Nearby Attractions

Marsden Tract Group Campsite is located about 14 miles (22.5 km) outside of Washington, D.C., providing affordable camping near the nation's capital. Many campers will base out of Marsden to see the sites such as the Smithsonian Institution, National Mall, Capitol and The White House.

Charges & Cancellations

No rain dates or weather-related refunds.

Rules and notices at Marsden Tract Group Campsite

Recreation.gov does not date these notices. We last read them on September 30, 2026. Check Marsden Tract Group Campsite on Recreation.gov

Notices from Recreation.gov

Parking and Access. Overnight parking is allowed only at the Carderock Recreation Area and the parking lot across from the Angler's Inn. Both parking lots are a one-mile (1.6 km) walk respectively. There is a temporary stopping area on MacArthur Blvd near the intersection of Brickyard Rd. This area may be used to off-load gear and be walked down the hill. However, overnight parking in this area is not permitted.

Check-in. You may arrive anytime after check-in time (1:00 pm) regardless of light conditions. There is no campsite host or staff. Just have a copy of your confirmation email available on a phone or printed. If someone is squatting in your campsite and you need law enforcement assistance please call US Park Police - (202) 610-7500.

Check-out. Check out time is 12:00 noon ET the day after the reservation.

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.

No Alcohol or Marijuana. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited. Marijuana is illegal on federal property.

Pets. 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 trashcans are not provided. Trash must be picked up and the area left in a clean condition before the group departs. Bring trash bags.

No Swimming. Swimming and/or wading in the Potomac River or the C&O Canal is extremely dangerous and prohibited by law in this area of the park.

Water. The hand pump well is turned on April 15 - October 31 and located up the towpath and across the bridge towards MacArthur Blvd. Please bring water for use if camping between November 1 - April 14. Portable toilets are located near Campsite 1.

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

Recreation.gov permit and campground cancellations →

Marsden Tract Group Campsite FAQ

How hard is it to get a campsite at Marsden Tract Group Campsite?

Marsden Tract Group Campsite is rated "Hard to Book" based on historical demand. This campground is popular and often books out weeks in advance. Your best strategy is to monitor cancellations.

How do I find last-minute availability at Marsden Tract Group Campsite?

Cancellations happen frequently at Marsden Tract Group Campsite, especially 1-2 weeks before check-in dates. PermitSnag monitors availability 24/7 and sends instant alerts when sites open up due to cancellations. This is often the best way to snag popular campsites.

How many campsites does Marsden Tract Group Campsite have?

Marsden Tract Group Campsite has 6 campsites.