Marsden Tract Group Campsite

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. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited. 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 a popular pastime in both the C&O Canal and the Potomac River; a Maryland fishing license is required for those age 16 or older, and Virginia licenses are approved for fishing in the Potomac only. Rock climbing and paddling are also close at hand. The campground has six group campsites, all of which will accommodate up to 30 campers. 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), and 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 and Angler's Inn are the two closest parking areas, each a one-mile walk; there are flush toilets at the Angler's parking area. There is a temporary stopping area on MacArthur Blvd near the intersection of Brickyard Rd, which may be used to off-load gear to be walked down the hill, though overnight parking there is not permitted. Marsden Tract 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. The campsite is about 14 miles (22.5 km) outside of Washington, D.C., and many campers base out of Marsden to see sites such as the Smithsonian Institution, National Mall, Capitol and The White House.