With its 184.5-mile towpath, network of adjacent trails, access to the Potomac River, and historic structures, the C&O Canal National Historical Park is a premier destination for hikers, cyclists, families, and more. But despite record visitation (nearly 5 million), federal funding has diminished. The Trust fills the void, raising funds to preserve the Park’s natural and historical resources, and managing programs to promote outdoor learning, healthy living, conservation, and volunteerism. Each year 8,000–10,000 K-12 students engage in interactive, STEAM-based learning; more than 1,000 volunteers (many from local businesses) rally to preserve, clean up, and beautify the park; and 2,200 overnight visitors stay at one of seven rehabilitated lock houses (formerly homes for lock keepers and their families)– a program that highlights chapters in American history while protecting endangered structures. The Trust fosters a love of nature – and a sense of responsibility for its preservation.

Information coming soon

Awards & Recognition

n/a

Press

  • No stories found

Budget (FY2023)

  • $3 million or higher
  • The current budget for C&O Canal Trust is: $1 million to $3 million
  • $500k to $1 million
  • Less than $500k

Catalogue charities range in size from $100,000 to $3 million. This graphic indicates the budget range of the organization featured here. If you see an organizational budget above the $3 million mark, that is because the featured charity has grown in size since it first appeared in the Catalogue. We proudly present on our website the work of these "growth" charities.

About Spur Local

Each year 150+ community advocates review applicants on the basis of governance, equity, and impact. Each featured nonprofit has been successfully site visited and its financials given the thumbs up. Spur Local charges no fees and raises funds separately to support its work. Since 2003, it has raised over $57 million for nonprofits across the Greater Washington region.

Spur Local looks to friends like you to keep our services independent and entirely free of charge. Consider a small contribution to Spur Local to cap off your gift and help the causes you care about get the full support they deserve!

If you like C&O Canal Trust you might also like