Wallkill River in New Jersey

Trip Overview

I saw a few Wallkill River posts already. However no mentioned you can paddle against the river quite easily. If you put in off RT 565 between the Franklin Sussex auto mall and the Wallkill Wildlife Office you can get an easy 14-mile run down stream and back up.

There are 2 spots that I know of where you will need to carry over. 1 is rocks 1 is major log jam. Downside is the banks are muddy and steep. Once those 2 hurdles are passed and there really not that bad it's smooth sailing.

Nice thing about this river is there's a lot of twists and turns. Trees to squeak past etc. It passes through old farmers fields most of the way. Very quiet. I've seen bald eagle, bear, turkey, tons of beaver. Nice place for a float.

Best part is this IS a river you can do with just one car. Wallkill dumps into the Hudson River by way of at lease 2 maybe 3 dams. Once weather warms I'll try for the Hudson. I'll let you all know if it's a doable run. Highly suggest you try this place for yourselves.

Accommodations:

None. Grassy entry point little slippery.

Diner, fast food out on RT 23.

Fees:

None. You can go to Wallkill management building about 3/4 mile up 565 from 2nd bridge for map. But it's really nothing special.

Directions:

RT 23 north to frannklin Sussex auto mall (Dodge, Jeep dealer). At that light go right onto RT 565 directly across the intersection from quick check. There will be 2 bridges approx 1 mile ish up the road. Unload at 2nd bridge. Parking is a bit further up 565 on the right.