Namanock Island — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
John B.
Reviewed Jun. 15, 2016

An Amazing Place to Camp

First, how can you go wrong, camping on an island. I have used this site for camping for 6 seasons now, and have never been disappointed with any aspect of the camp. This is one of the free sites on the Middle Delaware River Trail that is maintained by the NPS, ( National Park Service). They are a first come, first camped, set up, but I have not once in 6 years, (multiple trips per year), ever found anyone in the site ahead of me.
The island is situated in a way that once darkness falls there are no lights to be seen in either direction, up or down river. You are camped on the side of the island that views Pennsylvania's shore. Now, no lights means an incredible view of the night sky. The camp site is VERY spacious, we have used 5 tents at one time here, 6 or more boats, and when you add the main campfire as well as the couple minor fires through-out the camp that were burning, there was no feel of crowding at all. The Island was once a part of the Lenape Indian's territory, and granted it may be dated back to late 1700's/ early 1800's, it almost seems like there were people here as of the day before. Beautiful trails criss-cross the island and not a rock to be tripped over. I do not think I have worn shoes there even once.
This site is PRIMITIVE camping.... No bathrooms, no facilities of any sort.. Everything must be packed in and out, or you wont have it. There are waterfalls on the Pennsylvania shore within a quick walking distance of your location that are very much worth the time it takes to walk the trail.
There usually will be a patrol or two early in the mornings that goes by the island, but not once have I had a Ranger step foot on the island. Upon leaving the camp, the water is fairly shallow for about the first third of the river, but once you get out to the deeper water its a very easy paddle of maybe an hour and you are at the Dingman's Ferry area. Here you will find facilities, (no showers), trash receptacles, a picnic area, as well as a very historic site on the river. There are also trails that lead to Dingman's Falls as well once you get to the boat access. Make sure to meet the older couple that work the tolls on the bridge at Dingman's, they actually know 90% of their traffic on sight and by name. They enjoy sharing tons of history with those interested, and its a very interesting area that has a history of over 300 years. Tons of fishing, hiking, wildlife and nature everywhere to be found and enjoyed. If you are able to, I suggest at least visiting the island if not camping on it.

  • Review photo of Namanock Island — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area by John B., June 15, 2016
  • Review photo of Namanock Island — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area by John B., June 15, 2016
  • Review photo of Namanock Island — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area by John B., June 15, 2016
  • Review photo of Namanock Island — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area by John B., June 15, 2016
  • Review photo of Namanock Island — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area by John B., June 15, 2016
  • Review photo of Namanock Island — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area by John B., June 15, 2016
  • Review photo of Namanock Island — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area by John B., June 15, 2016