NPS Photo Enjoy picnic tables throughout the park, but especially near visitor centers, campgrounds, and boat launch ramp areas. For a complete list of picnic locations view the Recreation Guide by Milepost. Rememeber, the C&O Canal is a trash free park and trashcans are not provided. Trash must be picked up and the area left in a clean condition. Pack in, pack out! If you have a large group, consider renting out the Carderock Recreation Pavilion on Recreation.gov. Other alternatives for large groups would be Fletchers Cove, located in Washington, DC; Swains campground, located just north of Great Falls; or Rileys Lock in Seneca, MD. Grills are permitted at all three listed locations. Gatherings of more than 25 people require a Special Use Permit from the C&O Canal National Historical Park permits office. |
Last updated: September 5, 2025