DELAWARE WATER GAP NATIONAL RECREATION AREA

Located between the Pocono Plateau and Kittatinny Ridge in close proximity to the most densely populated region of the nation, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River preserve the natural, cultural, and scenic resources and values of the Delaware River valley and provide opportunities for resource-based recreation, education, and enjoyment

PARK REGULATIONS & SAFETY

• Launching, landing or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.

• Climbing, jumping, diving, and rappelling is prohibited at all waterfalls, waterfall pools, and bridge abutments.

• Swimming and wading is prohibited within 50 feet upstream of waterfalls.

• Entry into caves, mine shafts and unoccupied structures is prohibited.

• Privately-owned property and residences exist within park boundaries. Please respect the rights and privacy of private property owners and other residents.

• Collection of plants, animals, rocks, mineral, and cultural objects is prohibited.

• Certain types of activities require a special use permit. Some common activities that require a permit include commercial photography, weddings, baptisms, first amendment activities, and competitive events.

• A permit is required for any road-based tour operating within the park. Road-based commercial tours are considered as one or more persons traveling on an improved roadway on an itinerary that a company or individual has packaged, priced, or sold for leisure/recreational purposes.

• Camp fires are only allowed at designated camp sites within metal fire grates. Personally owned grills, stoves, or lanterns are permitted at designated picnic sites (excluding Kittatinny Point and Childs Park), campground or river campsite. Fires are prohibited in all other areas.

• Do not feed or approach wildlife. Always maintain a distance of at least 100 yards from bears and 25 yards from other wildlife.

For a complete list of park specific closures, permit requirements and other restrictions, contact park headquarters at 570 426-2452.

Contact Us

Main Address

Park Headquarters

1978 River Road, Bushkill, Pennsylvania 18324

Email: DEWA_Interpretation@nps.gov

Park Headquarters Emergency

570-426-2452 800-543-4295

Website and Social Media www.nps.gov/dewa www.facebook.com/DelWaterGapNPS www.twitter.com/DelWaterGapNPS www.instagram.com/DelWaterGapNPS

The National Park Service cares for the special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.

Pets

Pets must be restrained on a leash (6 feet or less). Pets may not be tied to an object and left unattended or left in a vehicle. Summer heat poses a threat to pets left in vehicles. Report lost pets to the park communication center at 570426-2457.

Please follow the rules of BARK! when visiting the park with your pet.

Bag your pet’s waste

Always wear a leash

Respect wildlife

Know where you can go

Pets are permitted in most areas of the park, including campgrounds, picnic areas, and on paved or dirt roads. Pets are NOT permitted at the following sites (excludes working service animals):

In Pennsylvania: Raymondskill Falls and Raymondskill Creek Trail Dingmans Falls and Dingmans Creek Trail Valley View Group Campsites

Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day: Smithfield Beach, Milford Beach, and Hialeah Picnic Area (except when accessing the McDade Trailhead)

In New Jersey: Turtle Beach Rivers Bend Group Campsites Watergate Recreation Site

Content

THE RIVER, THE VALLEY & YOU

» page 4

SUGGESTED TRIP

» page 7

A DAY ON THE DELAWARE

» page 8

SWIMMING & FISHING

» page 10

CAMPING

» page 12

PICNICKING & RIDING

» page 14

BIKING

» page 15

HIKING

» page 16

PARK TRAIL MAPS

» page 18

RIVER RUNNER SHUTTLE

» page 22

TOURING OLD MINE ROAD

» page 24

OVERLOOKS IN THE GAP

» page 26

WATERFALLS

» page 27

PEOPLE OF THE DELAWARE

» page 30