Things to Do - gather information on recreating in the park, such as hiking, fishing, or hunting.
Permits and Reservations - get your camping reservations, commercial use permits (including film, photography, and sound recording), and special use permits (such as wedding, sports, baptisms, and First-Amendment activities).
Pets - learn about B.A.R.K. rangers and pet regulations in the park.
Fall is a great time to explore the park. Mountains and rolling hills full of color will leave hikers amazed.
NPS/M.Cuff
Top Ten List for Visiting Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Know before you go: Explore the park website, follow us on Facebook, or call ahead to find out all the things you can do in the park, what you should bring with you, and what you should leave at home. Write a list to make sure you have everything you need. Options to purchase food or supplies are very limited once you are in the park.
Where can I… grill, have a picnic, bring a pet, or swim before hopping in the car? These activities are allowed in some designated areas and are prohibited in others. Plan your destination based on the activities you would like to do. Not all activities are permitted in all areas.
Play it SAFE! Explore the park website or call ahead for important information for a safe and fun visit. Always wear a life jacket when on the water. Be sure to check for ticks during and after your visit. Bring plenty of drinking water to stay hydrated.
Travel on Tuesday… or Wednesday, or Thursday to beat the crowds. Weekends are the busiest times in the park.
The early bird gets the view!Visit in the early mornings or early evenings to avoid crowded trails, high temperatures, and full parking areas. Afternoons are the busiest time of day in the park. Most sites are open sunrise to sunset, but call ahead to be sure.
Have a Plan B… and C in case the places you wish to visit are already full when you arrive. If the parking area is full, the site is also full. Many popular destinations reach capacity by 9 am on summer weekends.
Skip the most popular destinations:With 70,000 acres, over 150 miles of trails, and 40 miles of the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River, beauty and adventure can be found throughout the park. Check out a less popular trail to discover your new favorite spot!
Coordinate plans with other members of your party who are traveling separately. Cell service in the park is limited and may make reaching others in your party difficult. Carpooling and making a backup plan ahead of time can help you avoid issues. For example, if a site fills before all the members of your party arrive, they may not be able to enter the site and join you. Gather at a chosen point near the park and stay together if possible.
Recreate Responsibly. Help take care of the park by following all rules and regulations, taking all of your trash and waste with you when you leave, and respecting the wildlife. Always hike with trash bags in case you find some litter on your way!
