Can you kayak down the Delaware River?

Take a quick canoe or kayak trip down the Delaware River from the Smithfield Beach launch, down to the famous Delaware Water Gap. Rafts are available as well!



Yes, kayaking down the Delaware River is one of the most popular recreational activities in the Northeastern U.S. In 2026, the river remains a designated "National Wild and Scenic River," offering over 200 miles of navigable water. For beginners and families, the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River (near the NY/PA border) provides gentle currents and stunning cliff views, while the Delaware Water Gap offers a mix of calm pools and Class I-II rapids. There are dozens of professional liveries that provide rentals and shuttle services, making it easy to do a "point-to-point" trip without two cars. Most of the river is "non-tidal" and safe for casual paddlers, but it is essential to check the USGS water gauges before heading out, especially after heavy rain. The river was even named the "River of the Year" recently, reflecting its clean water and well-maintained access points for public use.

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If you're alone (which we don't advise!) then be sure to get your paddle and boat, then head to shore to empty the water and climb back in. Rivers are a wonderful kayaking environment as long as you're prepared for the currents and potential hazards.

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Enjoy a scenic, fun and refreshing 3 - 4 hour tube, raft, canoe or kayak ride down the Delaware River, which is the nation's most historic river and perfect for outdoor water sport activities.

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Swimming in areas of the river outside the life guarded beaches is permitted, but not recommended. Strong currents, sharp drop-offs, and constantly changing river conditions make many areas unsafe for swimming. Wearing a properly fitting life jacket is strongly recommended when swimming. Never swim alone.

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Here are some of the most important tips for having a safe and fun time on the river: Always wear a lifejacket or personal floatation device (PFD) in the water. Never drink alcohol and swim. Never try to swim across the river.

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River current is approximately 2 miles per hour.

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Crocodiles and alligators, of course, are not native to the Delaware River, preferring much warmer climates. Some locals are theorizing that a local pet is on the loose.

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However, the most famous fact about the Delaware River is the famous crossing of it by George Washington in 1776 which helped him successfully surprise Hessian troops in New Jersey during the American Revolution.

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How did the chemical spill happen? The spill occurred at a Trinseo plant in Bristol, Bucks County, on Friday, when the company said “an equipment failure” dumped about 8,100 gallons of latex emulsion solution into Otter Creek, a tributary of the Delaware River.

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