Entire home

C&O Canal Potomac River Cottage

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Where to?

Dates

June 2025

July 2025

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

Dryer
Washer
Fireplace
Air conditioning
Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Sharpsburg, MD

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
‪1 min walk‬
Shepherd University
‪23 min drive‬
Antietam National Battlefield
‪24 min drive‬
Hagerstown, MD (HGR-Hagerstown Regional)
‪39 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Sharpsburg

This cottage places you next to Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park and Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. The cottage includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a patio.

View more Cottages in Sharpsburg

What's nearby

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
Shepherd University - 23 min drive - 8.4 miles
Shepherdstown Opera House - 23 min drive - 9.1 miles
Shepherdstown Visitors Center - 24 min drive - 9.3 miles
Antietam National Battlefield - 24 min drive - 8.0 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

‪McDonald's - ‬27 min drive
‪Kitzie's of Spring Mills - ‬27 min drive
‪Burger King - ‬26 min drive
‪Jersey Mike's - ‬26 min drive
‪Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen - ‬26 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

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.

JANUARY -MARCH 2025 - 1 week minimum booking required. If over 28 days, a separate lease agreement will be required. 1 week minimum might change, you can inquire if you are looking for specific dates.

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/text 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 works. And the internet works great!

Roku for tv. You will need to use your own passwords for Netflix, YouTube, etc. Discovery+ is on the Roku

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.

We also have access to a local farm if you wish to stable your horses to ride along the canal or battlefield , I can put you in touch with them to discuss fees. They will allow you to park your trailer at the farm. (you need permission/permit for the battlefield)

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 the horse farm for a small fee.

The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 3 bedrooms and a dining area. Guests can enjoy a TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a sofa bed.

Property manager

Rorke Eichholz

Languages

English

Similar properties

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor Space

Property amenities

Ski

Cross-country skiing nearby
Snowboarding nearby

Internet

Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

Car required
Parking on site

Kitchen

Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Spices
Stovetop
Toaster

Dining

Dining table

Bedrooms

3 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Sofa bed

Bathroom

1 bathroom
Bathtub or shower
Hair dryer
Shampoo
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided

Living spaces

Dining table
Fireplace
Living room
Separate dining area

Entertainment

Books
Games
TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

Barbecue grill
Firepit
Garden
Outdoor furniture
Patio

Laundry

Laundry facilities
Washing machine

Work spaces

Desk

Comfort

Air conditioning
Heating

Pets

No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

In a rural location
Near a hospital
Near an outlet shopping mall
On a river

Things to do

Bicycles
Kayak
Birdwatching nearby
Casino nearby
Cycling nearby
Fishing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Rafting nearby
Spelunking nearby
Swimming nearby
Water tubing nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Winery tours nearby

Safety features

Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher

General

Bicycles
Garden

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:30 PM

Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

Note from host: younger ones s/b supervised, lots of small items

Important information

You need to know

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 is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Check-in: 3:30 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

Long-term renters welcome.

Property is also known as

Vrbo Property

Lock Keepers Cottage on the Potomac River / C&O Canal Cottage

Lock Keepers Cottage on the Potomac River / C&O Canal Sharpsburg

Frequently asked questions

What can I see around this cottage?

This cottage is located in Sharpsburg, just steps from Chesapeake and Ohio Canal and Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park, and within a short walk of Potomac River. You'll also find Antietam National Battlefield and Shepherdstown Opera House nearby.

Is parking available on site at this cottage?

No, this cottage doesn't offer parking.

Is this cottage next to a casino?

No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at this cottage?

No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Lock Keepers Cottage on C&O Canal/Potomac River ?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this historic cottage include a fireplace and a kitchen along with a garden.

Are there hot tubs at Lock Keepers Cottage on C&O Canal/Potomac River ?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this cottage.

Does this cottage offer breakfast?

No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this cottage allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at this cottage.

Are there connecting rooms at this cottage?

No, this cottage doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How close is the airport from this cottage?

The closest major airport to this cottage is Martinsburg, WV (MRB-Eastern West Virginia Regional), which is 26 mi away (43 minutes by car). Another top airport is Hagerstown, MD (HGR-Hagerstown Regional), which is located 17.4 mi away (31-minute drive).

Are there rooms with balconies at Lock Keepers Cottage on C&O Canal/Potomac River ?

Yes, every accommodation at Lock Keepers Cottage on C&O Canal/Potomac River comes with a deck.

C&O Canal Potomac River Cottage Reviews

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10 Excellent

Rodney R.

May 31, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Fantastic!

So lovely and clean. More than we had imagined!!!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Karen V.

Nov 11, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Cool history

We had a great time. Very comfortable like home.

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julie S.

Oct 16, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

A Weekend Well Worth the Drive.

Peaceful, tranquil and so much to explore right outside the door. The front porch is the perfect location for meals and reading. I absolutely loved riding my bike on the C&O canal towpath. The cottage is beautiful and well decorated with lots of details. Can’t wait to come back!

Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mark D.

Aug 28, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Biking the C and O Canal

My brother and I used this wonderful historic home as a base camp for several days of biking the C and O. We did 142 miles of the 180. Dam#4 on the Potomic, across the road, is just this side of heaven. Go here. You won't regret it.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

kathleen m., PA

Aug 12, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Cottage

The location of the cottage was perfect for our bike trip. Just across the street was the entrance to the towpath with wonderful views of the Potomac. The cottage itself was very cool even with the hot humid weather. Very interesting decor. The slate steps to the cottage are steep and have no railing which may be a problem for some people. You definitely need a car but we found restaurants and other things to do within 30 minutes.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

AMY W., Fremont, Ohio

Jul 15, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Erin H.

Jul 3, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Robert T.

May 15, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Great vacation spot! Loved every bit of this cottage!

Our stay was simply amazing! The home was very clean and inviting. You can here the sound of the water as it rolls over the dam from the the front porch. The sounds of the birds chirping right outside is the best sound. We loved this place and will be back. Rorke is especially nice and was very easy to communicate with. 5 Stars easy!

Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Doug F., Loganville, Pennsylvania, USA

Mar 30, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Springtime delight

Loved this property and location. Cozy, comfortable accommodations; all the necessities worked well.

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shannon S., Annapolis

Dec 29, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Serene

Loved our stay…beautiful home, peaceful setting, lots of nature and historical sites/towns to explore.

Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ray T.

Dec 11, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Chris Z.

Nov 9, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Nancy T.

Oct 27, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

cindy54 T.

Oct 24, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Erik S.

Aug 28, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Enchanting

We had a wonderful time staying at this very comfortable and cozy cottage. Our stay was only 3 days so we didnt get to do everything we wanted to do in area. We would very much like to come back again, maybe next year.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Scott L.

Aug 8, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Just what we needed!

It was what we needed. It was quiet and it was peaceful and we really loved it. We didn't want to go! having morning coffee on the porch to sitting out on the patio in the Evening having a night cap. We couldn't have asked for a more perfect place to getaway too.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

Alvin S.

Jul 6, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Don F., Schuylkill Haven, USA

Apr 17, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful and Relaxing

Can't say enough good things about this place. The setting is superb- from the sights and sounds as you relax on the porch looking at and listening to the waterfall, to the wonderfully decorated and comfortable interior. Really enjoyed just relaxing here. Next time I'll be sure to bring my bike to explore the C&O trail.

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Regina P.

Jan 3, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

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

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly H.

Dec 4, 2022

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect fall getaway

Beautiful property and beautiful location. Owner has tended thoughtfully to all the details.

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Stacie L.

Nov 6, 2022

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect weekend trip

5 of us came down from outside of Philly for our son’s football game at nearby St James. This was the perfect place to stay and explore over the weekend. Because his football game took most of the day on Saturday, we did not get as much time to explore as would have liked. We will definitely be back for another weekend getaway as soon as possible. The cottage was beautifully decorated and Rorke was the best hostess who answered any questions we had almost instantaneously. Thank you for a wonderful trip.

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

mark c.

Oct 9, 2022

Liked: Cleanliness

MRC

Loved the house, location and ease of process. Host was very accommodating and communative.

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Susan P.

Oct 8, 2022

Liked: Cleanliness

Charming and Cozy Getaway

This lovely cottage overlooking the C&O Canal/Potomac evokes the feel of simpler days gone by. From the charming and lovely decor/antiques to the pleasure of sipping coffee on the front porch while listening to the nearby waterfall, we didn’t even need to leave the cottage to have a wonderful vacation. Nonetheless, we toured nearby Harpers Ferry, rode bikes on the canal towpath, and attended a wedding in lovely Shepherdstown, WV. Rorke was such a thoughtful hostess, leaving on the lights for our late arrival, and providing all the necessary amenities for a wonderful stay. Hope to return someday.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

LIsa C.

Sep 18, 2022

Liked: Cleanliness

Lovely

It was just as it was pictured online! We loved it and the host was so thoughtful about what we might need, the way she labeled things and her decorating was very nicely done!

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Denise A.

Jul 31, 2022

Liked: Cleanliness

Remote and relaxing

The cottage is cozy and has all the things you need for your stay and more. We biked the C&O and it was a little rough at spots (we are used to biking the Pine Creek Trail in PA which is very well maintained), but it was still a pleasant ride. Next time we may bike other sections of the trail that are less remote. The road past the cottage leads to a boat access to the river so beware of the trucks towing boats to the access. The area is a little off the beaten path and going out to get food was at least 20 minutes but there are many really great restaurants to choose from in Shepardstown, Williamsport and Sharpsburg. We did enjoy relaxing on the very large porch listening to the water going over the dam. You are not able to see the river due to leaves on the trees in the summer. We would recommend staying at the lock keepers house, it was lovely.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022