Easy: Paddle from Buckingham to Long Eddy

One stretch of the Delaware River between Buckingham and Long Eddy.

NPS

Paddle this calm stretch of river from Buckingham River Access to Long Eddy River Access. This stretch is approximately 9.5 river miles and takes on average 4.5 hours to paddle. 

A few miles downstream from Buckingham the river will split around Frisbie Island, before rejoining right before the town of Equinunk, Pennsylvania. After several more miles you will pass under the Lordville-Equinunk Bridge. During the second half of your journey, look to your left to see Bouchoux Hill and Jensen Hill, reaching 1762 feet and 1676 feet respectively. The Bouchoux Trail to Jensen’s Ledges climbs up part of Bouchoux Hill. If paddling during the right time of year, you may be able to glimpse the waterfall coming off of the hill not far from Jensen’s Ledges. Throughout the paddle, keep an eye out for wildlife such as herons, eagles, cormorants, and egrets.

This stretch of river is relatively calm with only riffles and no rapids.

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 Buckingham and Long Eddy River Accesses. Most visitors will leave one car at their starting point and another at their ending point.

Details

Duration

3-5 Hours

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

Activity

Paddling

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. 

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Buckingham River Access

Buckingham River Access is located on Hancock Highway in Equinunk, PA (41.867063,-75.263813).  

From Hancock, NY/NY Route 97: After entering Hancock from northbound NY 97, turn onto West Front Street from West Main Street. Then turn south onto South Pennsylvania Avenue which becomes PA 191/Hancock Highway. Follow this road south for approximately 7.5 miles and the Buckingham River Access will be located on the left, immediately after passing Dillontown Road. 

From Honesdale/Equinunk, PA: Take PA 191/Hancock Highway north. The access will be on your right, approximately 3 miles after passing Equinunk, PA.  

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 paddle 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. As a result, life jackets must be worn between November 1 and April 30 when boating, canoeing, and kayaking. This is mandated in both Pennsylvania and New York boating law.

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

Paddling in daylight is recommended in order to avoid any river hazards. 

Accessibility Information

The Buckingham River Access has a paved ramp and designated accessible parking spots. A portable seasonal restroom is available. The Long Eddy River Access has a dirt/gravel ramp and no designated accessible parking spots. There are no ADA accessible ramps nor accessible restrooms at either river access.