Marsden Tract

Marsden Tract Group Camping
Permit Required

Marsden Tract Group Campsites are located at Mile 11.5 on the C&O Canal Towpath, between the Carderock Recreation Area and Angler’s Inn. These campsites are nestled in the woods between the Canal and the Potomac River. The location of the campsites is just a short distance from many recreational opportunities. Fishing, rock climbing, boating and hiking are but a few possibilities when staying at Marden Tract.

Marsden Tract is near the south end of the Billy Goat Trail Loop B. This trail is 1.4 miles long (one way) and is a moderate hike with minimal rock scrambling required. Fishing can be experieinced both on the Canal or the Potomac River. Catfish like the murky depths of the Canal and Shad and Small-mouth bass like the cold water of the Potomac. (Note: A Maryland Fishing License is required in order to fish in the Canal, if you are over 16. Either a Maryland or Virginia Fishing License is required in order to fish in the river.)

Three campsites are provided that range in accommodating 15-35 campers. At each campsite are picnic tables, a fire ring and grill. Portable toilets are also on site. Potable water is a short walk up the towpath and across the footbridge. NO VEHICULAR traffic is allowed on the towpath. Access to the campsites is by FOOT ONLY.

Marsden Tract Group Campsites are reserved for organized scout and/or civic groups. Use is by advanced PERMIT ONLY, at least two weeks, reservation. The fee for Marsden Tract is $20.00 per site per night. Payment is non-refundable and must be received within 10 days of initial request.

General rules and regulations for Marsden Tract Campsites:

Overnight parking is permitted ONLY at Great Falls (entrance fee charged), Angler’s Inn or Carderock Recreation Area.
Fires are permitted ONLY in established fire rings. All fires must be extinguished before leaving the park.
Cutting or defacing of any LIVE trees is prohibited. Fallen dead timber may be used as on-site firewood. Park Rangers have the right to ban ALL fires during periods of drought.
Alcohol is PROHIBITED.
The park is a "Trash Free Park." All users must remove their own trash from the park, trashcans are not provided. This program is meant to reduce refuse impacts on the park and provide a clean, healthy environment.
Swimming or wading in the Potomac River or the C&O Canal is extremely dangerous and prohibited by law.

For further information, directions or reservations please call (301)767-3731. Calls are usually returned within 48 hours.