Lockhouse 10 C&O Canal
Step back in time at Lockhouse 10, a 1930s cottage on the C&O Canal, offering vintage charm and serene nature.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild weather for outdoor activities
Lockhouse 10 C&O Canal
Best Time
Mild weather for outdoor activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Lockhouse 10, a 1930s cottage on the C&O Canal, offering vintage charm and serene nature.
"A genius idea for accommodations, much better than a hotel and so much more memorable."
Bring Your Own Bedding
Mattresses are firm; pack a topper for a comfier sleep. :sleeping_bed:
Pack-In, Pack-Out
Plan to take all your trash with you. :recycle:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Screened-In Porch
Enjoy the serene, forested surroundings in comfort, protected from insects.
Historic 1930s Furnishings
Immerse yourself in the authentic vintage decor that transports you to another era.
Direct C&O Canal Towpath Access
Step right out your door onto the scenic towpath for hiking or biking adventures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Vintage Charm
Pack Smart for a Seamless Stay
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Bedding
Mattresses are firm; pack a topper for a comfier sleep. :sleeping_bed:
Pack-In, Pack-Out
Plan to take all your trash with you. :recycle:
Firepit Fun
Firewood is provided for cozy evenings. :fire:
Modern Comforts
Enjoy great HVAC and water pressure. :snowflake: :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Bedding
Mattresses are firm; pack a topper for a comfier sleep. :sleeping_bed:
Pack-In, Pack-Out
Plan to take all your trash with you. :recycle:
Firepit Fun
Firewood is provided for cozy evenings. :fire:
Modern Comforts
Enjoy great HVAC and water pressure. :snowflake: :droplet:
Unique Wedding Venue
Consider for memorable wedding accommodations. :wedding:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lockhouse 10 is lauded for its unique historic charm and serene canal-side location, offering a peaceful escape with modern comforts like HVAC. While the vintage beds are noted as firm, the overall experience is highly praised for its memorable and immersive qualities, making it a standout alternative to standard accommodations.
"This was a cute and cozy place. My friends and I decided to stay here for the weekend and it offered a nice place to stay while enjoying some of the history of the C&O Canal. I definitely appreciated that the place does have air conditioning and an enclosed porch. The place had everything we needed. Some of the furniture is old and I did feel that some of the chairs might break while sitting on them."
Marlon Caballero
"Stayed here as our wedding accommodations and it was really a genius idea. So much better than a hotel or air bnb option, and so much more memorable. We were able to host a bon fire. I took a hike on the toe path after waking up. You are right in the city but are in nature at the same time. It really added to our wedding weekend to have beautiful and unique accommodations. We took our first look pictures by the canal, and I will always remember this as part of our special day!
Also, the shower is really nice and the water pressure is better than what I have at home. The hot water runs out after like 8-10 minutes but its not so bad! HVAC is also great. We got married on a hot day and we were actually cold while getting ready.
Only areas for improvement: bed mattresses are not the best, BYO mattress topper to be more comfortable. Proper trash cans in the home to make clean up easier.
We will definitely be back. Special shout out to the Canal Staff and Arden who was so attentive in emails!"
Nicole Reidinger
"We were married at Glen Echo Park this weekend. There aren’t many hotels around there, and I had always been intrigued by the lockhouses on my rides up and down the towpath. We decided to use Lockhouse 10 as our quarters for the weekend.
It was perfect. I’m not a camper, so I was glad that the house had a modern HVAC system. The AC was great while we got ready. The bath and kitchen had also been modernized. The C&O Canal Trust staff were incredibly responsive and clearly cared about our stay there—including restocking the firewood.
The only thing I would echo from the other reviews is that the beds are what they are. Trust the Trust—it is a very 1930s way of sleeping. We brought our own bedding to make it more comfortable. Not a huge deal. Also, it is pack-in, pack-out, so make more use of the dish ware and glasses they supply than disposable products. We came prepared for that.
I really loved staying here and can’t wait to do so again. It was quiet, secluded, peaceful, and beautiful, with the city just down the road."
Cobra Cobrastein
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lockhouse 10 is accessible via the C&O Canal towpath. Parking is available on-site, and it's tucked away from the main parking area for a more secluded feel.
While it's off the main trail, it's well-marked. The Canal Trust staff are also very responsive via email if you need directions.
Absolutely! It's a perfect stop for cyclists riding the C&O Canal towpath.
Despite being near the city, the lockhouse is surprisingly quiet inside. Some road noise might be audible outside, but it's generally peaceful.
Yes, there is on-site parking available for guests.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bookings are managed by the C&O Canal Trust. It's recommended to contact them directly or check their website for availability and reservation details.
Specific times can vary, so it's best to confirm with the C&O Canal Trust when you make your reservation. Generally, expect standard check-in/out procedures.
The C&O Canal National Historical Park itself is free to enter and explore. Lockhouse rentals are separate.
The rental typically includes access to the historic cottage, modern HVAC, a functional bathroom and kitchen, and provided firewood. Bedding and toiletries are not included.
Lockhouse 10 is primarily a rental accommodation. Day visits are generally not permitted to ensure the privacy and experience of overnight guests.
🎫 🛏️ Onsite Experience
Lockhouse 10 features a modern HVAC system, a well-equipped kitchen with dishes and pots, a nice bathroom with good water pressure, and a screened-in porch. There's also an outdoor fire pit.
No, guests are required to bring their own bedding, including sheets, blankets, and pillows. Towels are also not provided.
The beds are described as firm and vintage, reflecting the 1930s era. Many guests recommend bringing a mattress topper for added comfort.
Yes, the kitchen is stocked with necessary cookware and dishes, allowing you to prepare meals during your stay.
Based on reviews, Wi-Fi and TV are not explicitly mentioned as amenities. The focus is on a historic, unplugged experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are limited directly at the lockhouse. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks, as it's a pack-in, pack-out facility.
Yes, the kitchen is equipped for cooking. You'll find dishes, pots, and pans provided.
You'll likely need to stock up on groceries before arriving, as convenient stores are not immediately adjacent to the lockhouse.
Delivery services might be available depending on the provider and your exact location, but it's best to confirm this beforehand.
Simple, pre-prepared meals or items that require minimal cooking are ideal for a weekend stay. Utilize the firepit for outdoor cooking if desired.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic charm of the lockhouse interior, the serene canal views, and the surrounding forest. The screened porch also offers great shots.
Yes, its vintage furnishings and unique setting make it very photogenic, offering a distinct aesthetic.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for your photos, especially along the canal.
Absolutely, the lockhouse is situated right on the towpath, providing easy access to capture the canal and its surroundings.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of the property and any other guests.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴 Cyclists & Hikers
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Step Back in Time: The Lockhouse Experience
The C&O Canal Trust has done a commendable job of maintaining the lockhouse, ensuring it has modern amenities like HVAC and updated bathroom and kitchen facilities, blending historical ambiance with contemporary comfort. This thoughtful balance makes the stay enjoyable for those who appreciate history but still desire modern conveniences. The water pressure in the shower is noted as being excellent, a pleasant surprise for many.
Staying at Lockhouse 10 is more than just a place to sleep; it's an immersive experience. It's ideal for those seeking a secluded and peaceful getaway that is still conveniently located near urban amenities. The proximity to the C&O Canal towpath makes it a perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts looking to hike or bike.
Practicalities for Your Lockhouse Stay
The firewood is provided for use in the outdoor fire pit, making for cozy evenings under the stars. This is a fantastic amenity for those who enjoy outdoor living and want to experience a quintessential canal-side evening. The parking is on-site, offering convenience for unloading your supplies. Despite its somewhat secluded feel, the lockhouse is relatively easy to access from the main road and towpath.
For those planning events or special occasions, Lockhouse 10 has been used as unique wedding accommodations, adding a memorable touch to celebrations. The combination of natural beauty and historic charm makes it a standout choice for intimate gatherings or a romantic escape. The responsiveness of the Canal Trust staff is also frequently highlighted, ensuring a smooth and well-supported stay.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit