Delaware River in New York

Trip Overview

My buddy and I finished 42 miles on the Delaware River (aka The Big D) from Sparrowbush, NY, to Worthington State Forest (NJ).

The launch at Sparrowbush is maintained by the NY-state DEC, and has no facilities. A dumpster is provided, but is unsightly.

The trip got underway with cooperative weather. We camped the first night at Sandyston designated camping area (first-come, first-served), and then it was off to Hamilton area, south of Walpack Bend, to camp the following night. Rains on Saturday were a steady drizzle and there were a lot of scouting groups on the water that weekend (Sunday morning had a bit of drizzle and cleared up later in the afternoon). Shad were still running and other fish were just lethargic after the spawn. We saw some pig-beast smallmouths and carp.

I stayed at Worthington State Forest campground on Sunday night as my buddy had to work that evening (www.reserveamerica.com to secure a spot). The state forest boat launch, located near the state park offices, has a concrete ramp and a designated parking area.

Accommodations:

Campsites along the river are primitive and are first-come, first-served, and maintained by the NPS. They include a fire ring at each site (feeder-box style) and an outhouse nearby.

The state campground at Worthington has sites via www.reserveamerica.com, and each site has a table, fire ring and lantern hook. Restrooms are a short walk from each campsite and water is available at designated spots.

Fees:

No fees on the river.

Permits: PA boat launch (if launching from a PAFBC launch site) $10/year.

Fishing licenses: NJ/PA, and/or NY for the northern stretch.

Directions:

Sparrowbush boat launch is located off Rt 97 in NY, north of Port Jervis, near the 97-42 split.

Worthington is located off Rt. 80, the last exit before you cross the Delaware over the bridge.

Resources:

"Canoeing the Delaware," and "Down the Delaware: A River User's Guide."

Check the NPS website for the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Some NPS launch sites and areas have been closed (temporarily), and check with the NPS for an updated listing.