Ratcliff's River Campsites sits within Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, managed by the National Park Service, and is accessible only by boat or on foot. The river landing is a shale outcropping that is rough on gear, and a short trail leads up through dense vegetation to the camping area. As of 2021, the sites were heavily overgrown with knee-high grass and a notable tick presence. Paddlers planning to stop here should carry long pants and insect repellent, and factor in the condition of the landing when loading and unloading boats. Those wanting more developed options can browse dog-friendly camping near Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area or consider nearby Tom's Creek Boat In Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, roughly 0.3 miles northeast.
Description
Most river campsites are available for free, on a first come/first serve basis for boaters on trips where the distance is too great to be travelled in one day
To use a river campsite, the total river miles traveled must be at least 14 miles for a one-night trip, at least 26 miles for a two-night trip, and at least 34 miles for a three-night trip.
Below are some important things to know about camping at river campsites within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
Camping is limited to one night in each location There are no fees for river campsites except for the Alosa River Campsites Small fires are only permitted in existing fire grates. Use dead and down wood only. Cutting standing trees is not permitted.
Pack out all trash to include all food and food waste. Please use soaps sparingly. Soap should be dumped on well-drained soil away from water sources. Do not urinate or defecate within 100 feet of any river or stream. Fecal material, including pet waste, must be buried at least 6 inches deep and at least 300 feet away from water. Quiet hours are 10:00 pm to 6:00 am. Loud audio devices and fireworks are prohibited.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsRatcliff's River Campsites is located in New Jersey near Unity House
Coordinates
41.11265932 N
74.9704814 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 7/31/26- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 7/31/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 59 min from Scranton, PA
- 1 hr 1 min from Kiryas Joel, NY
- 1 hr 1 min from Allentown, PA
- 1 hr 32 min from New York, NY
