Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Attracts Millions of Visitors Annually

Located close to Interstate 80 near Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains and the city of East Stroudsburg, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a 67,000 acre park that constitutes the largest designated recreation area in the eastern United States. The park separates Pennsylvania from New Jersey and attracts upwards of approximately 3 million visitors each year.

The land around the Water Gap is rich in history though most people head there for the recreational opportunities. Nonetheless, many significant Native American archaeological sites can be found within the confines of the Delaware Water Gap area and some have already been studied by area archaeologists. Portions of the French and Indian War were fought on this land and, for decades, it was an early resort area thanks to the success of the railroads that ran through the region.

All of this activity resulted in the construction of many historic buildings in the area, though many were removed when the idea for the Water Gap Recreation Area was conceived and implemented in the 1960s. Nonetheless, pieces of past settlements can be found around the park and may be visited by park guests. Many of these structures have been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include the Dingman's Ferry Dutch Reformed Church, a Georgian-style place of worship built in 1850; the stately Marie Zimmerman Farm, which dates back to the 1870s; and the Isaac Van Campen Inn, built in 1750 and used as a fort during the French and Indian War.

Of course, the waters of the Delaware River are the main focus of this park and many visitors come here to enjoy all it has to offer. Swimming is available at lifeguarded beaches in several areas of the expansive park. Snorkeling is permitted as well and many visitors also come to the park to SCUBA dive, particularly in the Walpack Bend and Point of Gap locations. Those with motor boats can use their vessels on the entire length of the river (though there is an imposed speed limit) and water skiers are welcome on certain portions of the river.

Canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and tubing are also popular. Many local outfitters offer guided outdoor adventures on the Delaware River and also rent equipment for these excursions or for self-guided trips. Maps of the recreation area can help guests determine the best places to put in and enjoy the scenery.

Hiking trails are available on both sides of the river. Hikes range from about 2 to 6 hours in length and many trails are accessible to inexperienced hikers while others demand a bit more exertion. Some are particularly historic and take visitors past a number of places of interest. Many trails are also open to horseback riders. In the winter, some of these same trails are used for cross country skiing.

Rock climbing is also permitted at Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area and permits are not required. A climbing guide is sold at the park's Visitors Center. Cycling is allowed on designated trails and on paved roads that run through the park. Some outfitters near or within the park rent bicycles.

Two campgrounds are located within the park, one on each side of the river. Dingman's Campground in Pennsylvania as a 133-site rustic facility with prime campsites along the river, and New Jersey's Worthington State Forest Campground includes 69 tent and trailer sites open from April through December.