Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
While technically a National Recreation Area managed by the National Park Service, Delaware Water Gap is often considered alongside Pennsylvania state parks due to its significance and accessibility. The area preserves 70,000 acres along 40 miles of the Delaware River on the Pennsylvania-New Jersey border. Features include the dramatic water gap where the river cuts through the Appalachian Mountains, historic villages, waterfalls, and over 100 miles of hiking trails including the Appalachian Trail. The park offers canoeing, fishing, swimming, and spectacular scenic drives.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Leashed dogs welcome on most trails, including Dingmans Falls boardwalk; banned from beaches in summer. Campgrounds/picnic, water access, pet-waste bags.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Spectacular river gorge, gentle Delaware paddling for beginners, diverse hikes, accessible Dingmans Falls, swimming beaches, picnic areas, solitude if explored.
Tips from Visitors
- Dingmans Falls is the most accessible waterfall - boardwalk trail is suitable for all ages and abilities
- Canoeing the Delaware is best as a one-way trip - arrange shuttle service or use outfitters
- Swimming is permitted at designated beaches only - Smithfield Beach and Milford Beach are most popular
- The Old Mine Road on the New Jersey side is a scenic drive following the river for 40 miles
- Cell service can be spotty in the gorge - download maps and information before arrival
- Summer weekends are very crowded at popular spots - visit weekdays or explore lesser-known areas
Amenities
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Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area:
- Dingmans FallsSpectacular 130-foot waterfall accessed by an easy boardwalk trail - one of the tallest waterfalls in PennsylvaniaWithin the park
- Bushkill FallsPrivate park known as the 'Niagara of Pennsylvania' featuring 8 waterfalls connected by trails and bridges8 miles away
- Pocono RacewayNASCAR superspeedway hosting major racing events throughout the summer15 miles away
Things to Do at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Hiking Trails
Dingmans Falls Trail
EasyAccessible boardwalk and trail to stunning 130-foot Dingmans Falls and smaller Silver Thread Falls. Suitable for wheelchairs and strollers on boardwalk section.
Mount Tammany Trail
StrenuousSteep, rocky climb on the New Jersey side to spectacular overlook of the Water Gap. Red Dot trail is steeper up, Blue trail is more gradual down. Iconic views.
Appalachian Trail (Water Gap Section)
ModerateSection of the AT crossing through the recreation area with views of the gap and surrounding mountains. Can be hiked as sections or through-hiked.
Tumbling Waters Trail
ModerateLoop trail near Bushkill following cascading stream with small waterfalls and pools. Peaceful forest setting.
Directions
Delaware Water Gap NRA has multiple access points along 40 miles of river. Main visitor center is located off I-80 at the Delaware Water Gap: take I-80 to Exit 310 (Last exit in PA), follow signs to the Kittatinny Point Visitor Center. For the northern sections, take US Route 209 north from I-84. Popular access points include Smithfield Beach, Dingmans Falls, and Milford Beach on the Pennsylvania side. The recreation area straddles the PA-NJ border with access from both states. GPS coordinates vary by destination - check NPS website for specific locations.