NPS Photo The 184.5 mile stretch of the C&O Canal offers many recreational opportunities for families, historians, nature enthusiasts, and the like. Certain rules and regulations must be followed during your time in the park in order to fully enjoy what it has to offer and maintain a safe environment. There are also plans in place that protect the park and its resources in order to preserve the history for many more years to come. Current Superintendent's BiographyEd Wenschhof assumed the role of superintendent of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park on Oct. 18, 2026. Superintendent’s CompendiumThe Superintendent's Compendium (PDF) discusses the closures, request requirements, and restrictions delegated by the park’s Superintendent. Information on permits, natural resources, boat ramp access campsite locations, animal restrictions, and other important rules about park use are in this document. The Map Attachment (PDF) is intended to show closures as well as the general location of the designated first amendment locations at several places throughout the park. (Permits may be issued for other locations as well.) Laws & PoliciesAs a unit of the National Park Service, Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park is goverened by various laws, policies and regulations. Each park is shaped by its enabling legislation, or the law passed by congress that specifically created or designated the area as a unit of the National Park Service. Various other laws, policies, and regulations affect how parks operate. Other Management Documents:
Planning, Environment, and Public Comment (PEPC)This site is a comprehensive information and public comment site for National Park Service projects. Current park project will appear on the PEPC website and the listing below. Documents Open for Public ReviewOther Plans and ProjectsAn archive of completed projects as well as projects without documents open for comment may be found on the PEPC website. 
The Do's and Don'ts of Firearm Use
Firearms RegulationsAs firearms owners, it is important to understand the laws and regulations of bringing a firearm into the park. 
More Fun to be Discovered
Permits and ReservationsFrom reserving boat rides and campsites to getting permits for concerts and weddings, there are loads of activities to uncover. 
Protect the Forest and the Park
Deer Management PlanLearn about the importance of the white-tailed deer management process and how you can become involved. |
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Last updated: October 20, 2026