Campsite 52

For Marylanders who crave a genuine immersion in the untamed beauty of the state's western frontier, Campsite 52 in Little Orleans, MD, offers an exceptional starting point for adventure. While "Campsite 52" might refer to a specific site within a larger camping area, it signifies access to one of Maryland's most rugged and historically rich regions. Little Orleans is a gateway to vast public lands, including the renowned Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park and the expansive Green Ridge State Forest. This area is a haven for those seeking a less commercialized, more authentic outdoor experience. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker, a family with an RV, or a solo explorer yearning for solitude by the Potomac River, Campsite 52 and its surroundings promise a refreshing and challenging escape right in your own backyard.

Campsite 52 is located at JF4X+G8, Little Orleans, MD 21555, USA. This geographical marker places it squarely in Allegany County, a region of Maryland celebrated for its mountainous terrain, dense forests, and the winding Potomac River. For Maryland residents, reaching Little Orleans is an adventure in itself, often involving scenic drives through rural landscapes. From major population centers like Baltimore or Washington D.C., the journey typically involves taking Interstate 70 West to Interstate 68 West. Access to Little Orleans generally involves exiting I-68 and navigating local routes, such as Orleans Road. While some GPS systems might suggest routes through low-clearance tunnels, it's crucial to follow specific directions, often provided by official park or campground websites, to ensure a smooth journey, especially for RVs and larger vehicles. This slight remoteness is part of its charm, offering a true sense of escape and wilderness, yet it remains perfectly accessible for those from across Maryland looking for an authentic outdoor experience. The drive itself sets the tone for the wild beauty that awaits.

The services offered at Campsite 52, being a specific location near Little Orleans, are likely reflective of the general amenities found in the surrounding public lands like the C&O Canal National Historical Park and Green Ridge State Forest, or potentially a private campground like Little Orleans Campground nearby. These areas typically focus on providing essential, rustic amenities that complement the natural environment.

• Campsite Amenities (Typical for the region):

  • Picnic Tables: Most designated campsites, including those in the C&O Canal's hiker-biker or drive-in campgrounds, will have a sturdy picnic table.

  • Fire Rings/Grills: Each site is generally equipped with a fire ring, often with a grill grate, for cooking and campfires. Note that Maryland often prohibits outside firewood to prevent the spread of pests.

  • Water Access: At C&O Canal campsites, hand-pump water is typically available seasonally (April 15 - October 31). Private campgrounds like Little Orleans Campground offer potable running water, and even full RV hookups.

  • Toilets: Rustic pit toilets are common in more primitive areas like C&O Canal hiker-biker sites. Developed campgrounds in the vicinity (like Little Orleans Campground) would offer modern bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers.

  • Trash: Visitors are generally expected to pack out all trash in primitive settings, while developed campgrounds have designated trash disposal areas.

• Broader Campground Services (If part of a larger facility like Little Orleans Campground):

  • Tent Sites: Designated areas for traditional tent camping.

  • RV Sites: Full RV hookups (electric, water, sewer) might be available at private campgrounds in the area.

  • Cabins: Some private campgrounds offer cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort.

  • Recreation Room/Game Room: A common feature at larger, privately run campgrounds, offering indoor entertainment.

  • Swimming Pools: Private campgrounds like Little Orleans Campground are noted to have swimming pools.

  • Laundry Facilities: Available at more developed, privately run campgrounds.

  • Camp Store: Often provides essentials like firewood, ice, snacks, and sometimes hunting/fishing supplies.

  • Propane Fill Station: A convenience for RV campers at larger private sites.

  • Wi-Fi: While not universal in this remote area, some private campgrounds may offer Wi-Fi service.

The area around Campsite 52 in Little Orleans is rich in features and highlights that draw outdoor enthusiasts from across Maryland and beyond:

• C&O Canal National Historical Park Access: Little Orleans is a key access point to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath (around Mile Marker 140.9). This offers exceptional opportunities for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding along the historic towpath that stretches for 184.5 miles along the Potomac River. The nearby Fifteen Mile Creek Campground, a drive-in site on the C&O, provides direct access for those looking for a mix of convenience and history.

• Green Ridge State Forest Proximity: Immediately adjacent to the Little Orleans area is Green Ridge State Forest, Maryland's largest contiguous block of public land (approximately 49,000 acres). This vast forest offers extensive primitive camping (by permit), miles of unpaved roads for scenic drives and off-road biking, and numerous trails for hiking and hunting. It provides a truly rugged and remote experience for those seeking deep wilderness.

• Potomac River Access: The confluence of Fifteen Mile Creek and the Potomac River is nearby, offering excellent opportunities for fishing (trout in the creek, bass in the river), kayaking, canoeing, and small watercraft launching. A boat ramp is often available for easy river access.

• Fifteen Mile Creek: This stocked trout stream runs through the area, providing prime fishing spots. There's also a small catch-and-release fishing pond near some facilities, complete with ducks, which is particularly great for younger anglers.

• Rugged Mountain Character: The region is characterized by its dramatic mountain ridges, dense forests, and the winding Potomac. This creates a stunning backdrop for all outdoor activities and offers a true sense of being "out in the woods."

• Wildlife Viewing: The abundant public lands are home to diverse wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and various bird species, making it an excellent spot for nature observation and photography.

• Historical Significance: Beyond the C&O Canal's history, the region itself holds echoes of early American transportation and industry, adding a layer of historical interest to your outdoor adventures.

• Variety of Camping Experiences: From the primitive hiker-biker sites on the C&O Canal to the drive-in options at Fifteen Mile Creek Campground, and potentially more amenity-rich private campgrounds like Little Orleans Campground, the area around Campsite 52 offers a spectrum of camping styles to suit different preferences.

For more specific information regarding Campsite 52 or general camping in the Little Orleans area, particularly within the C&O Canal National Historical Park or Green Ridge State Forest, it's best to consult the official managing bodies:

Address: JF4X+G8, Little Orleans, MD 21555, USA (For Fifteen Mile Creek Campground, a nearby C&O Canal site: Mile 140 on the C&O Canal Towpath)

C&O Canal National Historical Park Phone: (301) 739-4200 (General Park Information)

Green Ridge State Forest Headquarters: (301) 478-3124 (For primitive camping permits and information)

Recreation.gov (for C&O Canal drive-in campsite reservations): https://www.recreation.gov

Little Orleans Campground (Private): (301) 478-2325

For Marylanders, Campsite 52 and the surrounding Little Orleans area offer an unparalleled opportunity to experience the state's wild, western beauty. Its direct access to the C&O Canal National Historical Park means miles of car-free exploration along the Potomac, perfect for avid cyclists, hikers, and history buffs alike. The vast expanse of Green Ridge State Forest provides a playground for those seeking true wilderness, with opportunities for primitive camping, hunting, and remote trail adventures. This region is less developed than some of Maryland's other camping destinations, which is precisely its appeal for locals seeking solitude, rugged recreation, and a deep connection with nature. Whether you're fishing for trout in Fifteen Mile Creek, kayaking on the Potomac, or simply enjoying a campfire under a canopy of stars, Little Orleans provides an authentic and challenging outdoor experience. It's a perfect destination for Maryland residents looking to truly "get away from it all" and discover the untamed spirit of their home state's mountains and rivers, making it an ideal choice for your next adventure into the heart of Western Maryland.