Camping Along the Towpath Trail

If you are interested in camping along the Towpath Trail as you bike or hike through, there are primitive camping sites where this is permitted. Sites are managed by independent organizations and rules, reservations and permitting requirements vary by site. Please reach out to camp site managers directly when planning or with questions. Camp sites below are listed North to South.

Primitive Camp Sites along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail

• There are three backcountry campsites at the Ottawa Overlook in Cleveland Metroparks’ Brecksville Reservation. While not directly on the trail, these are accessible from the trail fairly easily. Permits are required.

• There is one primitive campsite at the Big Bend Trailhead in Akron along the Towpath Trail. Fires are not permitted. Only one-night stays are allowed. Campers must sign in and out at the kiosk on site. Visit Summit Metro Parks' website to learn more.

• There is one primitive campsite 1/4 mile south of the Franklin Trailhead in New Franklin. Fires are not permitted. Only one-night stays are allowed. Campers must sign in and out at the kiosk on site. Visit Summit Metro Parks' website to learn more.

• There is one primitive camping along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail at Rivers Edge Camping Area near the Brideport Quarry Trailhead. Drive-up camping is not permitted. Reservations are not required, but visitors must fill out the Primitive Camping at Rivers Edge Registration Card or at the campsite kiosk and must call 330-353-2377 when they arrive.

• Primitive camping is available at Canal Fulton Canoe Livery & Campground, located one block from the Towpath Trail in downtown Canal Fulton. Restrooms and showers are available. Reservations required.

• Camping is available at the Towpath Trail Peace Park Campsites directly accessible from the Towpath Trail, between the McDonnell Trailhead and the village of Bolivar.

Please note: There is no camping permitted in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.  Backcountry camping or staying overnight in the National Park lots is prohibited.

Looking for other places to camp in the Ohio & Erie Canalway National Heritage Area? Check out these camp sites. You can also find a list of camp sites and their distances from the Cuyahoga Valley National Park Visitors Center on their website.  

• Ottawa Overlook Backcountry Site

• Valley Overlook

• Heritage Farms

• Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park

• Canal Fulton Canoe Livery and Campground