• Winter sunrise, Kittatinny Ridge

    Delaware Water Gap

    National Recreation Area NJ,PA

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  • Areas closed or newly opened

    Childs Park opens May 25. Dingmans Falls, Blue Mt Lakes/Skyline and unpaved Old Mine roads are open. STILL CLOSED PA: Mt. Minsi spur trails closed due to falcon nesting; Hornbecks & Adams Trails closed; McDade Trail closed trail miles 24.5 to 27.5 More »

Backpacking along the Appalachian Trail

Backpackers approaching Crater Lake
Backpackers approaching Crater Lake.
 

Within the recreation area, backcountry camping is permitted only along the Appalachian Trail and only for hikers on extended trips. An extended hiking trip is planned for two or more days, with camping occurring more then 1/2 mile from the departure point.

For regulations and a map of areas where backpacker campsites are permitted, please link to the park's bulletin on the Appalachian Trail. (pdf file)

For the sections of the AT that lead to Sunfish Pond, or Rattlesnake Swamp please link to the park's Hiking Bulletin. (pdf file)

Mohican Outdoor Center, a facility of the Appalachian Mountain Club is located less than 1/2 mile off the Appalachian Trial in New Jersey. The nearest trail shelters to the recreation area are Kirkridge PA, 6.4 miles south of the Interstate 80 bridge, and Brink Road Shelter in Stokes State Forest NJ, 2.4 miles north of the summit of Rattlesnake Mountain.

 
 

Did You Know?

A small steamboat passing a beach with rowboats

... that a century before this recreation area was formed, the Delaware Water Gap was touted as a Wonder of the World, and drew vacationers via rail lines from Philadelphia and New York City. There were trails to stroll, verandas for viewing the gap, and a steamboat for moonlight cruises. More...