Entire home

C&O Canal Potomac River Cottage

Photo gallery for C&O Canal Potomac River Cottage

A porch with wooden rocking chairs and a stone wall.
A dining room with a wooden table set for six, surrounded by chairs. A chandelier with antler-like decorations hangs from the ceiling.
A stone house with a porch and a small balcony.
A stone fireplace with a mantel displaying various items, including a framed sign, a ship model, and a deer head.
A rustic room with stone walls, a wooden dining table, two chairs, a hanging lantern, and a framed picture on the wall.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
Located along the river, this cottage features 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, accommodating 5 guests. It includes 1 bicycle and a separate living room. Enjoy water views from the porch, patio, and deck while engaging in tubing or cave exploring nearby. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park offers additional adventure opportunities.

Highlights

  • Family fun awaits

    Top-rated for families.
  • Games

    A rare find - enjoy a variety of games available on-site.
  • Centrally-located

    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks

    Walk to Potomac River
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Air conditioning
  • Barbecue grill
  • Deck or patio

Explore the area

View in a map
Sharpsburg, MD
  • Place, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Shepherd University
    ‪29 min drive‬
  • Place, Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races
    ‪46 min drive‬
  • Airport, Hagerstown, MD (HGR-Hagerstown Regional)
    ‪40 min drive‬

Where you'll sleep

3 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

boat room/blue room

1 Double Bed

Living Room 1

1 Twin Futon

master

1 Queen Bed

small room

1 Twin Bed

1 bathroom

bathroom

Soap · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Number of living rooms
Garden

About this property

C&O Canal Potomac River Cottage

Located just steps away from Dam #4 on the C&O Canal / Potomac River. (C&O mile marker 84.6) Perfect for a getaway or romantic weekend. You can hike/bike the C&O Canal, bring your kayak/canoe/bikes, fish or swim in the river. Sit on the porch and listen to the rumble of the water falling over the dam. Local lore is this was the home of a canal lock keeper or the gate house keeper. For history buffs, there was a small skirmish when Lee’s army attempted to cross dam.

THIS IS NOT A PARTY HOUSE, OWNER ON SITE IN GARAGE APARTMENT.

The house is a historic house built in 1841 and remodeled sometime in the early 1900's. Please be aware, the steps up to the front door and the basement steps are a little steep.

THE FIREPLACE IS NOT TO BE USED, its not in working condition.

FYI - this house is not a Canal Quarters lockhouse operated by the C & O Canal Trust, it is privately owned.

Cell service can be sketchy down here at the river, all depends on your carrier/weather conditions, etc. I have no issues, but if you do, wi-if calling and text works. And the internet works great!

Roku for tv. You will need to use your own passwords for Netflix, YouTube, etc.

FYI FOR TIMID DRIVERS : The house is high on a hill above the river, one side of the driveway has a steep drop off down to the road. The driveway is tight, but there is room for 4 cars, you will need to make 3 point turns in order to turn around.


Public boat ramp a few miles farther down the road. Because of steep/tight driveway, there is no room for boat/jet ski trailers. You can keep them overnight at a horse farm a few miles away for a small fee.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 21

Check out before 11:00 AM

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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17

Younger ones s/b supervised, lots of small items

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Events

No events allowed

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Pets

No pets allowed

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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 2029643
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the neighborhood

Sharpsburg

Located in Sharpsburg, this cottage is in a rural area and on a river. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Greenbrier State Park and Washington Monument State Park, while Hagerstown Model Railroad Museum at Antietam Station and Pry House Field Hospital Museum are cultural highlights. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Ram Stadium or Hagerstown Field House. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cave exploring and cycling nearby.
Map
Sharpsburg, MD

What's nearby

  • Chesapeake and Ohio Canal - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Antietam National Battlefield - 23 min drive - 17.3 km
  • Shepherd University - 29 min drive - 26.3 km
  • Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races - 46 min drive - 47.8 km
  • Harpers Ferry National Historical Park - 50 min drive - 52.3 km

Getting around

  • Martinsburg Station - 39 min drive
  • Martinsburg, WV (MRB-Eastern West Virginia Regional) - 43 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Kitzie's of Spring Mills - ‬27 min drive
  • ‪Spring Mills Diner - ‬27 min drive
  • ‪Montese's - ‬26 min drive
  • ‪Green Frog - ‬33 min drive
  • ‪Sheetz - ‬29 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is C&O Canal Potomac River Cottage pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at C&O Canal Potomac River Cottage?

As of Sep 21, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at C&O Canal Potomac River Cottage on Sep 27, 2026 start from $221, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at C&O Canal Potomac River Cottage?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at C&O Canal Potomac River Cottage?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is C&O Canal Potomac River Cottage located?

Situated on a river, this cottage is within a 10-minute walk of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal and Potomac River. Antietam National Battlefield and Williamsport City Hall are also within 9 mi (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 64 out of 66 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 66 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 66 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 66 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 66 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Enjoyed ourselves very much
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything in the kitchen and bathroom had all wee needed to help us settle in. And the rooms were full of character and well presented. The location next to the path along the river was lovely. Excellent communication with our host.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Fantastic. Great host. Can’t say anything that hasn’t already been said.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was the best stocked kitchen I have ever found in a rental property. Location was just what we were looking for, and host was very responsive and helpful.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautifully decorated old rock home. Everything you need with a charming porch. Surprised to find air conditioning which was needed in 100 degree heat. We could hear the Potomac River but too much vegetation and trees to see it. Close to a boat ramp and picnic area down the road. Lots of stairs but still highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was very nice.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We absolutely LOVED the cabin! It was so cozy and charming. The owners were very responsive and helpful. The cabin was stocked with all things needed. This has been our favorite vrbo thus far!!!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful location

We loved this incredible location just off of dam number 4. There is beautiful hiking along the river within a stone’s throw of the porch and the house itself is like a grandmother’s hug.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful relaxing stay

Looking for something unique and historical -this is the place. Great home base to visit Harper’s Ferry and Antietam. Wish we could have stayed longer!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Serene

Loved our stay…beautiful home, peaceful setting, lots of nature and historical sites/towns to explore.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The place was perfect. A cozy “cottage” with so much character. It was exactly what we needed. Our grown kids came each day and we were very pleased at the amount of utensils, pans, dishes etc for cooking. We spent most of our time just being together. The hosts were very responsive to any questions. And take great care of the place!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Springtime delight

Loved this property and location. Cozy, comfortable accommodations; all the necessities worked well.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A relaxing getaway

We loved staying here. The cottage is charming and comfortable. While most of the the structure, and furnishings, are vintage, the kitchen is updated and thoughtfully stocked.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage was very comfortable and cozy and had many amenities and special touches to make it very welcoming. It was quiet and peaceful and located within short drives to the Antietam Battlefield and Shepherdstown where we rented bikes for a nice day of biking on the C&O Canal, the focus of our long weekend. We enjoyed the sounds of the Potomac River at the dam and the birds while relaxing on the porch.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great!!

This house and visit overall was spectacular. Rorke was incredibly responsive, the house was very clean, there were many helpful little notes about the quirks of the house, and the location right on the river could not be more peaceful and ideal.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cool history

We had a great time. Very comfortable like home.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Host was wonderful. Responded quickly to questions before we got there. The place was BEAUTIFUL! We hosted a get together dinner for my son, his wife and her family with our family. There was plenty of room, the kitchen perfect for preparing a Ham dinner. We had 11 people there. Christmas morning, my daughter and I sat on the porch, ate breakfast and read. The beds very comfy, and the views of the Potomac as well as the walking trail inviting. I would go back.
Christmas break, sun, blanket at good book
Living room
Dining room
My husband daughter and I
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic!

So lovely and clean. More than we had imagined!!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy, Quaint Cottage

Historical cozy and quaint cottage nestled among the woods and the rustle of the dam waters. Very peaceful yet fairly close to attractions. Splendid!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Rustic Seclusion

Nice stay. Was looking for a get-away yet not too far away. Rustic setting next to the C&O Canal and Potomac Dam #4. Great hiking, quiet setting, and good visits to Harpers Ferry and Shepherds Town, WV. Enjoyed our time at the cottage.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great cottage

We had a great time exploring the area , seeing lots of wildlife, we just must of have misunderstood about the river but overall we had a wonderful time
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great escape

Overall great property and location. Rorke was incredible. She was incredibly friendly and communicative. This is a great place to veg out with your family and explore nature!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Better than described!!

Excellent property, even better than described. Unique decorations and amenities make it feel like home. Highly reccomend.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming and tranquil! A slice of heaven!

Our host was amazing. Such a beautiful cottage. Very peaceful and Rourke made our stay so enjoyable. Every amenity you can think of was provided. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy cottage!

A very cozy cottage! Host had nice amenities and great info on the area. Beautiful location along the Potomac River. Good for long walks, bike rides and enjoying the area. Some steep steps inside and out, so need to be nimble.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

About the host

Hosted by Rorke Eichholz

Host profile image

I am a lover of history and old houses/buildings. Wish I could save them all. Worked in administration for 25+ years before I decided to take on the vacation rental business. I have 3 beautiful dogs, that you might occasionally see at the property. 2 border collies and an English shepherd.

Why they chose this property

This is a fabulous property, with the awesome porch and the rumble of the water coming over the dam in the background, it's such a peaceful place to be. I love just sitting on the porch swing and doing nothing but watching the river and activity on the C and O canal towpath.

What makes this property unique

To me the best thing about this house is the porch. Just sitting out there relaxing and doing nothing and listening to the rumble of the Potomac going over the dam, it's just so peaceful.

Languages:

English

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