Canoeing the Delaware River

Extending approximately 280 miles the Delaware River is the longest un-dammed stretch of river east of the Mississippi River. Because the river is partially protected, it is free from large scale commercial and industrial development. It is clean and clear and serves as a watershed for about 15 million people located in New York City and New Jersey, and also serves as a major recreation attraction for the people of eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York City.

Canoeing Matamoras to the Delaware Water Gap
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area is regulated by the National Park Service and is one of the most popular stretches on the Delaware River. Although the Delaware Water Gap provides many unique opportunities for recreation and exploration, realize that you are not escaping civilization to a more serene environment on this river. There are primitive campsites available, but on the weekends you will be competing with crowds of paddlers, swimmers, barbequers, campers, and fisherman for these camping spots. If you do manage to secure one of these primitive campsites expect to be interrupted by park authorities because primitive camping along the river is only allowed in designated areas on a one night pass through basis only. So when planning a weekend canoe camping trip through the Gap you may want to consider camping at a commercial campsite rather than attempting primitive camping. Camping at a commercial site will allow you to take advantage of the many recreational opportunities offered in the Delaware Water Gap. Visit the Dingmans Campground website.

If you are determined to camp at one of the primitive campsites you best opportunity will be throughout the week. There are many primitive sites along the Pennsylvania shore and some island camping is available. Contact the National Park Service or Moshannon Falls for more canoe camping information.