Page last update: 13 May 2025
How many people visit Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park each year?
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park (NHP) is a popular destination for outdoor recreation averaging approximately 4 million visits each year.
- A total of 4,421,276 people visited the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP 2024, indicating a 1.1% decrease from the previous year.
- In 2023, the park recorded 4,470,592 visitors, a 4.3% increase compared to 2022.
- 4,286,185 visited the park in 2022, marking a 27% increase from the pandemic-influenced numbers of 2019.
- In 2019, 3,374,865 visitors were recorded.
How much do visitors spend on Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park each year?
Tourism revenue at the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP averaged $95 million each year.
- In 2023, visitor spending generated $96.01 million in direct revenue. Tourist spending in 2022 was $90.74 million, a 6% increase in 2023.
- Pre-pandemic revenue recorded in 2019 totalled $98.44 million.
- Revenue peaked in 2021 at $104.46 million, aligning with increased outdoor activity post-pandemic.
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP Visitation in 2025
A total of 839,620 people visited the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP from January to March of 2025.
| Month | Recreational Visit |
| Jan | 229.15 K |
| Feb | 236.85 K |
| Mar | 373.62 K |
How many people visited Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP in 2024?
In 2024, 4,421,276 people visited the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park representing a 1.1% decrease from the previous year.
How many people visit Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP per day?
On average, the park welcomed around 12,080 visitors per day, based on annual data from 2024.
How much does it cost to visit Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP?
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP is free to enter, but some activities, such as camping and lodging, may have fees.
When is the peak season in Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP?
The peak season at Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP aligns with the warmer months, from spring through summer.
- April to August sees consistently strong visitor numbers (above 400k monthly in recent years)
- The absolute peak is around September/October
When is the best time to visit Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP?
The best time to visit the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP is in Spring (April-May), which is a good period for hiking and wildlife viewing as temperatures are warming up.
- Summer (June – August): Good months for outdoor activities like biking, camping and kayaking.
- Fall (September – October): A quieter season, popular for scenic walks and fall foliage.
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Travel Resources
- Greensboro RV rentals
- Chesapeake RV rentals
- Frederick RV rentals
- Winston Salem RV rentals
- Columbus RV rentals
How popular is Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP as a tourist destination?
- The C&O Canal NHP is among the most visited national historical parks in the U.S. and consistently ranking in the top 20 most visited national historical parks annually.
Why do people visit Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP?
The park offers a range of outdoor activities:
- Hiking and biking trails along the Towpath.
- Boating and kayaking on the canal.
- Visiting lock houses and aqueducts.
- Camping
Facts About the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP
- The park spans 184.5 miles from Washington, D.C., to Cumberland, Maryland.
- It was established in 1971 as a national historical park.
- The C&O Canal Towpath is one of the longest hiking/biking trails in the U.S.
- The park preserves over 1,300 historic structures.
What were the most popular types of camping in Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP in 2024?
- Tent Camping was a favorite activity at Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP in 2024, with 15,610 people staying overnight in a tent.
- Additionally, 1,270 people stayed in RVs in 2024.
What are the most common causes of death in Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP?
A total of 34 deaths were recorded between 2007 and August 2024 in Chesapeake & Ohio Canal NHP. The most common recorded causes included:
- Undetermined: 11 deaths
- Medical incidents during physical activity: 7 deaths
- Drowning: 4 deaths
- Environmental factors: 3 deaths
- Suicide: 3 deaths
- Motor vehicle crashes: 2 deaths
- Other transportation incidents: 2 deaths
- Homicide: 1 death
- Medical (unknown causes): 1 death
Safety Tips While Visiting
To ensure a safe visit:
- Stay on marked trails
- Follow park regulations regarding wildlife and camping safety
- Be cautious around water
- Check weather conditions before heading out.
- Bring sufficient water for hydration.
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References
NPS: National Park Visitation Statistics