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Sorrel Ridge Campground Introduce

Sorrel Ridge Campground, located along the picturesque Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath in Oldtown, MD, is a hidden gem for those seeking a rustic and tranquil camping experience. Nestled next to the Potomac River, this campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and outdoor adventure.

The campground features a limited number of campsites, making it an ideal spot for small groups or solo adventurers looking for a quiet retreat. Amenities include a picnic table, a fire ring, a stand-up grill, and a porta pottie, ensuring a comfortable yet back-to-nature experience. Please note that the water pump is turned off during the winter and early spring, so campers are advised to bring their own water during these seasons.

History buffs will appreciate the proximity to Lock 62 and the foundation of an old lockhouse, which add a touch of historical charm to the area. The campground is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with frequent sightings of geese, ducks, bald eagles, turtles, frogs, and even the occasional Big Foot (or so the stories go). The soothing sounds of the river and the symphony of wildlife create a truly peaceful atmosphere.

While Sorrel Ridge Campground is perfect for those seeking a rustic escape, it’s important to remember that this is a National Park, and all rules and regulations must be followed. Campers should also be aware that the area is prone to flooding during heavy rains, as evidenced by the May 2022 flood that left the campground covered in mud and debris.

Here’s what some campers have to say about their experience:

  • "A beautiful spot to spend the night. The sounds of the river and wildlife made it incredibly peaceful."
  • "Perfect for a rustic backcountry camping experience. We loved the historical touches and abundant wildlife."
  • "The only downside is the limited space, but it was perfect for us since we were the only ones there."

Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a family outing, or a romantic getaway, Sorrel Ridge Campground offers a unique and memorable camping experience. Pack your gear, bring your sense of adventure, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and history of this special place.

Location

MarylandAllegany CountyOldtownChesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath

Customer Reviews

4.0
7 reviews
J
John Mathews
Apr 11, 2021

My nephew and I spent the night here for our overnight backpacking trip. The only reason we rank this campground 4 stars is due to the fact that it only has room for about three or four campsites. We were actually the only campers there, but if it were a busier time of the year, this place would not fit very many campers. Other than that, it is a beautiful spot to spend the night. Lock 62 is directly across the trail from the campground and the foundation to an old lockhouse is on the campground side of the trail. There is a lot of history in this area. The water pump was not working because they turn it off during the Winter and early Spring. We knew this ahead of time and just packed in our own water. There is a porta pottie, one fire ring, one man-made stone fire pit, a stand up grill and a picnic table at this campground. The Sorrel Ridge Campground is right next to the Potomac River. There were all kinds of wildlife; to include, geese, ducks, birds, a bald eagle, salamanders, turtles, frogs, toads, crickets, a couple different species of snakes, spiders, and the occasional Big Foot. The sounds of the river and the wildlife graced our ears throughout the night. It was very peaceful. Again, for being a rustic backcountry type of campground, this location fits the expections we had from the outset. If there were just a little more open space, it would have been perfect. Because we were the only campers there, it ended up being perfect for us. REMEMBER, this is a National Park and therefore you must follow all rules and regulations.

K
Kiki Cyclogue
May 26, 2022

May 2022 Potomac River over flowed and this campground had major problem. Camping area sits quite low from the towpath and when I went down there I can see that everything was covered in mud and debris from the flood. Its a shame that I had to pass it on.

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Corey Gens
Aug 31, 2018

Not a bad campsite at all. The only thing bad about this one compared to the others is the walk to the bathroom but other than that not bad.

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Michael Fingland
Mar 30, 2021

Camped there with the family and had a good time. Not really able to swim here and only one fire pit, but excellent view and peaceful place to lay your head.

E
Edward Cimino
Aug 13, 2016

Beautiful spot. I didn't camp here, just stopped to take lunch. I believe this is the last hiker-bike campground heading west until after the Pawpaw tunnel.