Getting Started
Plan Your Activities
Places To GoClick here for information about specific places in the park, such as hiking trails, swim beaches, or waterfall sites. 
Things To DoAre you looking to meditate, hike, fish, hunt, or just explore nature? Click here for a list of things to do during your visit. 
Resources
Conditions and Safety
Visitor FAQs Explore the dropdown list of frequently asked questions to assist with your trip planning.
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a large natural area with a ton of history.
Hiking on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, learning about historic villages from rangers, watching volunteers demonstrate skills from the 19th century, taking a stroll on a boardwalk trail to waterfalls, picnicking at a swim beach, and so many more activities can be experienced in the park with the right planning. For more information, explore the Things To Do - Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov) page for ideas and information on different activities available. This site is open to the public from dawn to dusk for outdoor recreation activities.Overnight parking is permitted only while the vehicle owner and passengers are:
Register Your Overnight Parking Information Here
Ranger Tip: Don't forget to let a family member or friend know your plans! River CampingFor people kayaking and canoeing the Delaware River for multiple days, there are reservable river campsites available on Recreation.gov.Developed CampgroundsThere are three developed campgrounds in and immediately arround the park. From RV spaces to primitive tent camping sites, these campgrounds are ready to host your vacation.Dingmans Campground Mohican Outdoor Center Worthington State Forest Group CampingFor a primitive campground, visit Valley View or River Bend Group Campgrounds. These areas are designed for larger groups to be able to camp together.Backcountry CampingBackcountry camping is permitted only for those thru-hiking the Appalachian National Scenic Trail on extended, multi-day trips. There are no other backcountry camping opportunities within the park.
While the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is located in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the land is maintained by the federal government. This makes the use of marijuana illegal within the park boundaries.
Consumption of alcohol is not permitted on land in the park, including at the beaches, picnic areas, and campgrounds. Possession or use of marijuana or other illicit drugs is punishable by a maximum fine of $5000 and six months in jail. Pets are welcome in most areas of the park!
The Delaware River is a 330-mile stretch of undammed river extending from Hancock, New York to the Atlantic Ocean.
About 40 miles of the Delaware River falls within the park, surrounded by the Pocono Mountains. This section of river contains class one rapids, making it an easier paddle for beginners. However, the river should not be underestimated. Before any river adventure, make sure you are prepared! Without a properly-fitted and fastened lifejacket and a plan, the Delaware River can be dangerous. Visit River Safety - Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov) to learn more ways to stay safe on the river. For information on river conditions, please visit Current River Conditions - Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov).
Some local companies work within the park through Commercial Use Authorizations to provide visitors with fun paddling and floating experiences!
For more information and phone numbers of local companies, please visit Canoe/Kayak Liveries - Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov). |
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Last updated: October 29, 2026