Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

The Delaware Water Gap is the best known feature of the park, a distinct notch cut into the Kittatinny Ridge by the Delaware River.
Situated within the most densely populated region of the United States, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area provides a unique opportunity to experience tranquil landscapes, rich human history, and striking scenery along 40 miles of the longest free-flowing river east of the Mississippi. The park offers year-round recreation including hiking, paddling, fishing, and hunting.
Map showing location of park.
A new octagon deck with a wooden bench and wayside exhibit.
George W. Childs Park Set to Re-open at Noon on October 2
George W. Childs Park (Childs Park), in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, will re-open to the public at noon on October 2, 2024, following a short opening ceremony.
A freshly paved road with a painted crosswalk.
Smooth Ride Awaits Travelers on Southern Portion of Old Mine Road
The southern portion of Old Mine Road, between Worthington State Forest and Millbrook Village, on the New Jersey side of Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is set to re-open on September 20 after receiving a major upgrade with funding from the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA).
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Announces Art Contest for Local Students to Celebrate 60th Anniversary
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is sponsoring a student art contest in collaboration with Friends of Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Peters Valley School of Craft, and Pocono Environmental Education Center to celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2025.
New Jersey Man Drowns in Delaware River
National Park Service rangers and dive team members from Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River and rescue teams from Bushkill, Dingmans and Westfall Fire Departments, and Lehman Township EMS responded to a call from Pike County Dispatch regarding a drowning at Bushkill Access on the afternoon of August 26, 2024.  
NPS issues Delaware River Safety Advisory for August 10-11
Due to rising water levels in the Delaware River the river and all access points within the park are closed until levels recede below 15’ at the Montague, NJ gauge.
View of the Delaware River cutting between two low mountain peaks
Photo by Courtesy of James Hicks
A waterfall flows toward the viewer along a rocky riverbed.
Photo by NPS Photo
A woman braids rye straw for hatmaking
Photo by NPS Photo
a snaking river view from a mountain top
Photo by NPS Photo
Great Blue Herons attending their nests in a tree
Photo by NPS Photo/Dan Mohr
A strongly running Dingmans Falls waterfall surrounded by plants.
Photo by NPS Photo / Michael Cuff
Tall and narrow, Silver Thread Falls
Photo by NPS Photo / Michael Cuff