The Upper Delaware National Scenic and Recreation River stretches across 73 miles of free-flowing water between New York and Pennsylvania. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season, with cooler evenings that drop into the 50s. The region's diverse campgrounds sit at elevations between 600-1,200 feet, creating varied terrain options for both riverside and forest camping experiences.
What to do
Fishing the Beaverkill River: Roscoe Campsites provides direct access to premier trout fishing waters. A camper noted, "Right on the Beaverkill River, it's quiet, clean, gorgeous, brand new cabins and concrete pads. Fisherman's heaven."
Kayaking and canoeing: Local outfitters near the Delaware River offer various watercraft rentals for exploring the river. At Keen Lake Resort Campground, one visitor explained, "We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. Each day we would paddle over to the swimming area on the lake. It was awesome."
Hiking nearby trails: The region offers trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging terrain. A visitor to Promised Land State Park commented, "The Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked."
What campers like
Spacious riverfront sites: Soaring Eagle Campground offers larger-than-average camping spots along the Delaware. According to a regular visitor, "The sites are larger than most campgrounds and well spaced out. I have been there on busy holiday weekends where it was full but still peaceful and private with a great community of campers."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain excellent bathroom and shower facilities. A visitor to Honesdale-Poconos KOA stated, "The bathrooms and showers, every time we went in, were spotless. The staff was incredible."
Family-friendly activities: Campgrounds often schedule regular events for children and adults. One camper at Keen Lake Resort noted, "They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!"
What you should know
Weekday vs. weekend experience: Narrowsburg Campground and others can have dramatically different atmospheres depending on when you visit. One camper observed, "This felt like a music festival. Loud (REALLY) loud music playing till 4am. Fireworks so close to campsites that car alarms were going off."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from late April through mid-October, with some closing after Columbus Day. Water access points may have different conditions throughout the season.
Site selection matters: Request specific sites when making reservations. At Roscoe Campsites, a camper warned, "The 'tent sites' are not actually built for tents. The ground is worn over and very rocky. If you visit, bring incredibly thick sleeping pads or air mattresses if you want to sleep semi-comfortably."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-specific swimming areas: For pet friendly camping near Upper Delaware National Scenic and Recreation River, look for designated pet swimming zones. At Skinners Falls Campground, one visitor mentioned, "Got a camp site right on the Delaware River. Was able to fish, swim rent tubes and kayaks. What was also great was firewood delivery and the campgrounds are dog friendly."
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds have dedicated play areas for children. One visitor to Happy Days Campground noted, "Old school playground for kids, volleyball court. The rec hall had a piano, pool table, ping pong table and more."
Kid-friendly water access: Look for campgrounds with gradual-entry swimming areas. A camper at Keen Lake Resort shared, "My kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling and hookups: Many campgrounds provide level sites with multiple hookup options. At Ponderosa Pines Campground, a visitor observed the campground was "Well kept and peaceful. They have some entertainment, but nothing rowdy."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer full sewer hookups at each site. Check if the campground has a dump station if your site lacks sewer connections.
Navigation challenges: Some campground access roads can be difficult for larger rigs. A camper at Promised Land State Park warned, "Watch the local roads for potholes."
