Welcome to Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River!
Top Things to Know:
Life Jackets Save Lives: Do it for your friends, your family, your pet, or yourself—wear a life jacket and wear it right. On average there are 2 drownings each year at Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River. The river is often deeper and faster than it appears.
No Shoes, No (Cellphone) Service: Wear close-toed shoes to protect your feet on in and off the river. There is also limited cell phone service in most areas of the park. Be mindful you may not have coverage during your trip and plan accordingly. You can download an offline map and information via the NPS Mobile App.
Pack it In, Pack it Out: At most river accesses and trailheads there are no trash cans or garbage receptacles. Whatever items and trash you bring into the park, please take with you and dispose of when you return home. You are stepping into the home of many charismatic creatures and wonderous wildlife. Help them keep their home safe and clean!
Glass is no Good: Glass bottles and containers are prohibited on the river. Broken glass is dangerous to people, wildlife, and service animals. Please leave any glass at home.
It’s Tick Time: Always check for ticks after being outdoors, especially after walking in high grass and bushy areas. Ticks can carry Lyme Disease which if untreated can cause many long-term health issues. Ticks are active in the winter in addition to the summer. Wear long sleeves and pants, tuck your pants into your socks, and wear tick repellant. Check not only yourself but your pet for ticks. Learn more about how to prevent tick bites.
Keep Your Distance: Respect wildlife and keep your distance. Please be mindful wildlife such as black bears, bobcats, bats, and snakes can be found within the boundaries. For the safety of your pet and wildlife, please keep pets on a leash.
Respect Your Neighbors: The Upper Delaware River is surrounded by private property, including properties on the river. Do not stop and get off your boat onto private property or where there are houses. When in doubt, do not stop. Please use public accesses to enter and exit the river, or if renting equipment from a livery, you can use the livery's river accesses.
No Reservations Required: There is no entrance fee to Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River and reservations are required. However, certain areas are closed during some months of the year. Check out our operating hours for more information on what’s open.
Get the Right License: Fishing licenses are required to fish in the river and boats are available to rent from several liveries within the park boundaries. Please note that a New York or Pennsylvania fishing license is required. New Jersey fishing licenses are not valid at Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River.
Go Beyond the River: Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River is more than just the river. Check out our Things to Do page to discover what other activities you can enjoy. The park also hosts events and programs for the spring, summer, and fall months. Check out our calendar page to see what’s coming up next!
