The Delaware River corridor near Walpack offers primitive tent camping options at elevations between 300-1,100 feet. The narrow river valley creates a microclimate where spring temperatures fluctuate dramatically, affecting water levels and campsite access. Primitive boat-in camping requires paddlers to carry all supplies and follow strict one-night stay limits at most locations.
What to do
Explore waterfalls: 15-minute hike to Raymondskill Falls from Namanock Island campsites. "Paddle across the river from the site, it is only a 10-15 minute hike along the road on the Pennsylvania side of the river to reach Raymondskill Falls. A 'must-see' if your stopping here," notes camper John B.
Hike historic trails: Connect to McDade Recreation Trail from Hornbeck's River Boat In Campsites. "These three sites also have easy access to the multiuse McDade Trail, so after pitching your tent, a short walk upriver on the trail will bring you to the Dingman's Campground, whose store has ice cream and cold drinks and to Hornbeck Creek waterfall trail," writes Ross R.
Blueberry picking: July-August on Catfish Pond at Camp Mohican. "If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries," suggests Dan X. The pond offers edible wild berries during peak summer months.
What campers like
Complete darkness: No light pollution for stargazing. The isolation at Sandyston Boat In Campsites creates exceptional night sky viewing. "It's a very quiet area, as there is no access to the general public. It is primitive camping, so no facilities for waste, water, or anything that you did not pack in with you," explains John B.
Rotating campsite availability: NPS land management strategy. Some island camping areas close periodically. "The NPS then informed me that they were starting to close off island camping on the river and going to 'rotate in' some new sites to help with land management. Almost like a farmer rotating crops," shares a Namanock Island camper.
Swimming with wildlife: Share the water with local species. At Camp Mohican Outdoor Center, "swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond -- plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife," reports Dan X. Many river campsites provide direct water access.
What you should know
Landing challenges: Island access varies with water level. Spring brings higher, faster currents making boat landings tricky. "Due to fluctuating water levels all of the islands that are used for camping have a cut wall cliff style approach," explains a camper at Sandyston.
Privy conditions vary widely: Some sites have basic toilet facilities while others have none. At Bushkill Creek Boat In Campsite, "No privy that we found, but a good fire ring and plenty of space for tents. The path up to the campsite from the river gets a little steep, but not bad," notes Anna M.
First-come basis creates competition: Summer weekends fill quickly. "During the summer, it is often a challenge to find an open site on a Saturday night, especially if you have gotten a late start on the river or are approaching the southern end of the park," warns a Hornbeck's camper.
Tips for camping with families
Choose group-friendly sites: Some accommodate multiple tents. At Rivers Bend Group Campground, "Large field with multiple group campsites with bearboxes, fire pit and garbage cans at each site. Four outhouses centrally located and a pump well that did not work," reports Christopher W.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk sightings common. At Kittatinny Valley State Park, "You'll see deer and rabbits it's really spacious and beautiful. Site A is the best for seclusion and a spot closer to the lake (also amazing sunsets)," notes Bee L.
Bring firewood: Limited availability at campsites. Most boat-in sites have no wood sales. "They sell the NYNJ Trail Conference Maps, too. It's a ~15 minute drive from the park office to the campground. No shortage of kindling in the surrounding forest," a Steam Mill camper advises.
Tips for RVers
Limited RV options: Most river sites tent-only. Consider Jenny Jump State Forest for RV camping near Walpack. "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path. You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake)," notes Seth K.
Accessibility considerations: Terrain challenges. For RVs and campers with mobility needs, "Oh, this shelter is wheelchair accessible. Some of the others are not," reports a Jenny Jump State Forest visitor about their cabin accommodations.
Water and power limitations: Plan for self-contained camping. At most tent camping locations near Walpack, water spigots may be limited to central locations. "The biggest negative was that the water spouts were near the entrance so if you are staying deeper into the campground, I would consider this," notes Ethan K. about Steam Mill Campground.
