Float from Mongaup to Sparrowbush

Visitors with inner tubes at Mongaup River Access

NPS

Float this short stretch of river from Mongaup River Access to the New York DEC river access at Sparrowbush, NY. This stretch is approximately 3 river miles and takes on average 1.5 hours to float. 

This stretch of river has one set of rapids, Mongaup Rapids, located right at the Mongaup River Access. These rapids are Class II rapids. There are also several rifts, including Butlers Rift and Mill Rift, located at the first major bend in the river after Mongaup and around Cherry Island, respectively. This stretch will allow you to float past the Hawk’s Nest, a well-known overlook area with sandstone cliffs, right after Butlers Rift. 

River Safety 

• Wearing a life jacket is the #1 thing you can do to stay safe on the river. Make sure your life jacket fits snugly and is the correct size for you. Familiarize yourself with the life jacket rules of the river. 

• During all seasons, there is always a risk of hypothermia. Even during summer, water temperatures can remain cold. Always come prepared, check the weather forecast, wear appropriate clothing, and bring an extra set of dry clothes. 

• River conditions can change very quickly. Stay informed by calling the river hotline line at 845-252-7100 for daily information about river height, condition, and temperatures. The hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from April 1st to October 31st. 

• Glass is prohibited on the river. Closed toed shoes are recommended to protect your feet. 

• The river is surrounded by private property. Please respect landowners and do not stop or get off on private property.

Driving and Parking 

There are no public shuttles, public transit, or ride-sharing services along the Upper Delaware River, as well as limited cell service. Unless you are renting equipment from a livery which offers shuttling services, make a plan on how you will get back to your vehicle after your trip. Parking lots are available at both the Lackawaxen and Sparrowbush accesses. Most visitors will leave one car at their starting point and another at their ending point.

Details

Duration

1-2 Hours

Floating times can vary greatly depending on river height and conditions, wind, weather and the type of vessel being used. At an average river height of 2.5 - 4 feet, an average floating speed is 2 miles per hour.

Activity

River Tubing

Life jackets are required to be within reach for everyone when on a boat, tube, or any other vessel or watercraft. One life jacket is required per person. 

Life jackets are required to be worn for children 12 years old and younger at all times and for everyone when the river height is 6 feet or above, as measured at the Callicoon and Barryville gauges. 

We strongly recommend keeping your life jacket on if you decide to swim in the water. The current is often stronger than it appears when you are boating or tubing.

Pets Allowed

Yes

You are welcome to enjoy the river with your pet. Dogs make great boat buddies, but there are some things to take into consideration before you get on the water. 

• Know your dog and their abilities, temperament, and stamina. A hot summer day on the river can be draining on people and pets. Know your limits. 

• A life jacket can save your pet if you capsize. Even though dogs can swim, river currents can be very swift and a life jacket will ensure peace of mind that your pet makes it back to shore. Do not tie your pet to your boat. 

• Respect wildlife and other visitors. Remember that when you get out onto a river access, your dog needs to be leashed in order to protect your pet, other visitors, and wildlife. 

• Pack It In, Pack It Out: There are no trash receptacles at river accesses. Help keep the park clean by picking up after your pooch and taking back with you any pet waste. 

• Ticks and snakes are both present in the park. Reduce the risk to your pet by keeping them out of tall grass and vegetation. 

Please note due to the stability and size of the vessel, boats such as rafts or canoes may be safer and easier to take on a river trip with your pet in comparison to inner tubes. 

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Mongaup River Access

The Mongaup River Access is located on NY State Route 97 (41.425313,-74.757813). 

From Northbound NY 97/Port Jervis, NY: Drive approximately 6.5 miles north from Port Jervis, NY on New York Route 97. The river access will be on your left, immediately after crossing the Mongaup River and shortly after passing the Hawk’s Nest and the Mongaup River Trailhead. 

From Southbound NY 97/Barryville, NY: Drive approximately 12 miles south from Barryville, NY on New York Route 97. The river access will be on your right, after passing Knights Eddy but before reaching the Hawk’s Nest. 

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Although the Upper Delaware River is open year-round to recreate, summer is generally the best time of year to float due to warmer air and water temperatures. 

At water temperatures of 70°F and below, there is an increased risk of cold water shock, which affects one’s ability to respond and recover after capsizing or falling into the water. Inner tube users are also more likely to get wet compared to boaters. 

The ideal water temperature for water activities is between 70°F - 80°F. Summer water temperatures range from 50°F - 90s (°F), with spring and fall being cooler. Winter water temperatures can fall below freezing by December. Please check the river temperatures before setting off on your trip and ensure you have the appropriate equipment to have a safe trip.

Time of Day

Day

Floating and tubing in daylight is recommended in order to avoid any river hazards. 

Accessibility Information

The Mongaup River Access has a no ramp and requires one to walk a short distance over a dirt path strewn with rocks to reach the river. There are no designated accessible parking spots. A seasonal portable restroom is available at the access.

The ramp at the access at Sparrowbush is paved but quite steep. There are designated accessible parking spots. There are no ADA accessible ramps nor restrooms at the access.