If spending time in nature is your family’s vibe, then a trip to Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which spans 70,000 acres between New Jersey and Pennsylvania, is a must-do. You’ll find forests, river views, waterfalls, and historic sites, making it a place where kids can see natural wonders and get active in exploring the spectacular scenery, which is why more than 4 million people visit here annually and return each season. Ready to make a trip? Read on to find out (featured photo credit: istock/Alex Potemkin)
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Take a hike (or two)
Hiking is the main way to see the stunning views of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, so you’ll want to map out where to focus on foot, with trails ranging from beginner to expert. To the south, there’s a mountain pass where the river cuts through the Blue Mountains and the Kittatinny Mountains, with waterfalls and historic sites such as the Minisink Archaeological Site, Millbrook Village, and the Peters Valley Arts Center. If you want a beach-like setting, head to the Milford Beach & McDade Recreational Trail, a flat, shaded trail that littles can manage, with a scenic beach area for picnicking and spending a few hours enjoying the water. Or spend time chasing waterfalls at Dingmans & Silverthread Falls, walking on the .5-mile boardwalk that leads to the base of the Falls, a stroller-friendly trail that’s popular with families.
Get out on the water
Got kids who love to splash around? The Delaware Water Gap has plenty of ways to get out on the water, from river tubing, canoeing, and kayaking. Rent a canoe or kayak from Edge of the Woods Outfitters who will take you by shuttle to a launch point and offer tips on where to paddle. If floating down a river is more your speed, hop on a tube at Smithfield Beach that takes you down to the recreation area, with riverbank stops, swimming spots and insta-worthy views along the way.
Become a Junior Ranger
School-age kids can join the Junior Ranger Program, where they can pick up a booklet for the Delaware Water Gap, to work on a series of activities, learning the history and ecology during their time in the park. Once they’re finished and report back, kids can claim an official Junior Ranger badge to keep and remember the day with.
Spend the night under the stars
If sleeping under the stars is calling, you can set up a tent at one of the campsites located along the Delaware River. There are three developed campsites in the park, which have RV setups, primitive lodges and restroom facilities, including showers. You can pitch a tent or pull up an RV, but you must call ahead for reservations. Planning a few nights on the trails or river? You can pitch a tent along the way at one of the 62 primitive sites along the river, but it’s only permitted for one night, and for longer excursions (you will need to get a permit to camp).
FAQ’s About Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
What are the hours?
Most of the park is open 24 hours a day, and most day-use areas are open from sunrise to sunset, even on holidays.
How much does it cost to visit?
The site has no entrance fee, but some areas, including Milford Beach, Dingmans Access, and Bushkills Access, require an amenity fee. Some of these areas only accept cash or card, so make sure you bring both. Other fees may apply,, such as parking or shuttles.
Where are the visitor centers?
There are two visitor centers: Bushkill, the bigger of the two with restrooms, a store, and passport stamps for Junior Rangers; and Kittany Point Visitor Center with boat launch points, picnic areas and hiking info.
For more information on the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, be sure to visit their website, Facebook or Instagram pages.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Center
1978 River Road
Bushkill, PA 18324
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