The Delaware River region near Millrift, Pennsylvania sits at approximately 450 feet elevation with terrain characterized by forested mountains and river valleys. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with increased precipitation compared to fall months. Riverside tent camping offers access to Class I-II rapids throughout the 40-mile stretch of protected waterways within Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Access multiple cascades within short hiking distance of Hornbeck's River Boat In Campsites. "Within minutes on the Pennsylvania side of the river you can hike to Raymondskill Falls, (one of many in easy walking distance), as well as search for abandoned/forgotten homes and mills, (some of which date back to the 1700's)," notes one visitor.
Paddling experiences: Launch kayaks or canoes from designated access points for overnight river trips. At Sandyston Boat In Campsites, one camper reports it was "a short morning paddle away from Dingman's Ferry Access, waterfalls, and historical locations worthy of the exploration make this an ideal location to start the days journey."
Night sky viewing: Set up at secluded river sites for exceptional stargazing opportunities. A camper at Sandyston noted, "You totally feel that your party is alone out on the river, the entire world is yours and yours alone. There are no public interactions, (beyond the neighboring sites), on the river for miles."
What campers like
Island camping solitude: Tent camping on Namanock Island provides exceptional privacy. "I have now taken my packraft to the island twice and have had a fantastic trip each time! The sites are maintained by the NPS and are available on a first come first served basis," writes one regular visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Natural areas around Millrift offer abundant animal sightings. "Saw tons of bald eagles flying near the site and while paddles birds playing and baby geese with their mommas!" reported a camper at Namanock Island.
Historical exploration: Access centuries-old structures from river camping spots. At Alosa Boat In Campsites, paddlers appreciate that "each area has its own fire ring and multiple river pull offs for easy finding and access. There is an emergency pick up/access road available as well with contact from the park."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Some sites require advance booking while others operate on first-come basis. For Alosa Boat In Campsites, "reservations are required for this site," according to a recent visitor.
Limited facilities: Most tent camping sites near Millrift offer primitive conditions. "It is primitive camping, so there are no other facilities at the sites. During the summer, it is often a challenge to find an open site on a Saturday night," notes a camper referring to Hornbeck's River Boat In Campsites.
Camping regulations: National Park Service enforces specific rules for river camping. "People found camping at this site that are not on a river trip or that are camped at the site for longer than one day can expect to receive hefty fines from the NPS," warns a Sandyston camper.
Access challenges: Many of the best tent camping near Millrift, Pennsylvania requires watercraft. "First, this site is only accessible by canoes or kayaks. There is no public road access to the campsite," states a review for Sandyston sites.
Tips for camping with families
Select larger sites: Some river campsites accommodate multiple tents better than others. At Sandyston Boat In Campsites, "a few of them are fairly large and accommodate large groups," according to frequent visitors.
Pack essential supplies: No services exist at remote sites. A Namanock Island camper advises, "Definitely would stop at one of the many places along the way to buy fire wood," highlighting the importance of advance planning for families.
Consider timing: For the best tent camping experience near Millrift with children, weekday visits improve site availability. "I have only ever gone during the week so I have not had any issue securing one of the four available sites but would recommend getting their earlier if you intend to go during the weekend," notes a Namanock visitor.
Plan water safety: River conditions fluctuate seasonally affecting campsite access. "Spring time trips can find the water levels much higher and swifter making it more difficult to arrive safely, or dry," warns one experienced camper.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Access roads limit RV camping options in the immediate Millrift area. At Port Jervis Elks Brox Hiker/Biker Campground, ten miles north, a visitor notes, "I would not drive an RV in here except maybe a small type trailer."
Alternative base camps: Consider setting up at more developed sites like Steam Mill Campground for day trips to river areas. "These sites are for people truly there to camp, either in a tent or small travel trailer," explains a regular visitor. "If you want to stay remote, be sure to pick up enough fire wood from the office when you check in."
Road access considerations: Interior campground roads may present challenges. At Port Jervis Elks Brox, "It's .8 miles in on the right. There was another closer in but seemed full. I'm right across from the lake in amongst a copse of trees," reports a camper with a Nissan Rogue who "made it in no problem."
