NPS Winding through highlands scenery from Hancock, NY, to just north of Matamoras, PA, the Upper Delaware River is the longest free-flowing river in the Northeast. The river provides ample opportunities for boating, paddling, and floating on the river in a variety of vessels. With riffles, rapids, and placid pools, river users can experience an exciting paddle or a peaceful float. The Upper Delaware's boating season extends from mid-April through October. The water, even in summer, can be cold enough to cause hypothermia. Despite sometimes appearing slow and shallow, the river hides hidden currents, steep drop offs, and deep 12-18 foot holes. Before you head out on the water, please take time to plan out your river trip and familiarize yourself with river conditions, boating regulations, and life jacket wear regulations. Looking to Float or Paddle?Recommended Paddling & Tubing TripsPlan Ahead and Be PreparedCommunicate: Before you head out on your trip, make sure you have a plan and you tell someone staying on dry land where you're going and when you expect to return. Also be aware that there is limited cell phone service in the park and in some areas you may not have cell phone reception. 
Get information on what you need to know and bring on a river trip at the Upper Delaware.
Planning a river trip on the Upper Delaware? Check out the public accesses where you can start and end your journey.
Do your research on the distance and average paddling time in-between public river accesses to help the length of your river trip.
Boating Regulations, Rentals, and LicensesThere are no park fees associated with paddling on the river. However, the use of motorized boats and fishing require the appropriate licenses. Do your research ahead of time to make sure you have the right licenses and knowledge to start your adventure on the river. Both Pennsylvania and New York state have boat safety certificate requirements to operate motorized boats within their waters. Boating and Watercraft RegulationsFor more information on park boating operation and life jacket wear policy, please see the Superintendent's Compendium. Launching and recovering boats and other vessels are only permitted at the following sites:
At the following sites, vessels may only be launched by hand:
This provision does not apply to landowners launching and retrieving watercraft from their private property. Operating a vessel in excess of flat wake speed is prohibited within 100 feet of shoreline, docks, launch ramps, swimmers, or downed skiers, waders, anchored or drifting boats. Use of personal watercraft (PWC) is prohibited. Waterskiing is permitted only in the Narrowsburg pool. Towing someone using a parasail, hang-glider, or other airborne device requires a permit.
The pristine water of the Delaware River provides ideal habitat for a variety of fish and is well known for ample fishing opportunities.
Keep an Eye Out for Stowaways!Keep an eye out for stowaways on your vessel! We aren’t taking about a rogue human runaway, but non-native plants, animals, and other little creatures which can cause havoc if introduced into the Upper Delaware River region. Aquatic invasive species (AIS) can introduce disease, transform habitats, and outcompete native species, negatively impacting the river ecosystem. Help the park keep the river clean and free of invasive species by following the Clean, Drain, Dry method:
Occasionally, species from all around the world find a new home in the Upper Delaware Region and are known as nonnative species.
Learn about invasive species in the larger Catskill Mountains areas and initiatives to stop the spread!
Learn about how to prevent invasive species' spread within your National Parks!
Stay Safe on the WaterBe Situationally Aware: The river includes riffles, Class I and II rapids, and eddies. Its average depth is 4 to 5 feet, but 12- to 18-foot holes are common, and many are even deeper. Please extend caution and look out for obstacles such as boulders, bridge piers, fallen trees, and eel weirs (large "V"-shaped wooden structures). Check the Weather and River Conditions: Before heading out on the water, always check the weather forecast, the park’s current conditions, and river levels. The US Geological Survey (USGS) provides detailed information on the Upper Delaware River water temperature, discharge, and river level height at the Barryville and Callicoon gauges. Learn more about river conditions and related paddling recommendations. Call the Upper Delaware River Hotline: Call 845-252-7100 to receive daily information about the river height, temperatures, and boating conditions.The hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from April 1st to October 31st. Check ahead so you can come prepared. However, the river is dynamic and constantly changing. Upstream releases can affect water depth and speed. Recent high-water events and storms can change the river landscape, creating and uncovering new obstacles. Always be mindful of your surroundings and even if you have paddled in a section of the river before, do not assume conditions will be the same if you return. 
Learn essential safety tips and information for recreating on and around the Upper Delaware River.
Learn about the risks and recommendations at different river height levels and conditions.
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Last updated: April 8, 2025