Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Explore the Delaware River corridor where two states meet through waterfalls and forest.
Artwork inspired by Edward Redfield
The Delaware Water Gap is not one viewpoint: the National Recreation Area protects a long river corridor across Pennsylvania and New Jersey. On the Pennsylvania side, Bushkill and Dingmans-area access points lead to waterfalls, old roads, and launch sites. A short visit should choose one cluster rather than attempt the whole park.
The river can look placid from shore but boating requires attention to levels, weather, and life jackets. Waterfall trails vary greatly in stairs and footing. Start with an NPS map, decide whether the goal is hiking or water access, and check any seasonal site or fee notice before driving to a remote lot.
- Landscape
- Delaware River corridor
- States
- Pennsylvania and New Jersey
- Best planning tool
- NPS site map
Quick guide
- Choose a cluster
- The park spans many miles; select a Pennsylvania access area first.
- Check conditions
- Review trail, river, and parking notices before departure.
Know before you go
- Pick your shore
- The map opens a Pennsylvania-side listing near Bushkill.
- Match the route
- Waterfall paths differ in stairs and slippery footing.
- Check the river
- Boaters need current conditions and proper flotation.
- Expect variation
- Access hours and fees differ among individual sites.
Good to know
There is no single entrance for this two-state recreation area; select the exact trail, beach, or launch before following a map.
Notice these
- River, ridge, and ravine
- Delaware River corridor
- Pennsylvania and New Jersey