**For additional information & safety tips, clink the link above for the Del. Water Gap N.R.A. (Hotspots Overview/Group page**

Park Overview:

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (DEWA) is a 70,000+ acre National Park Unit located along the boundaries of Northwestern New Jersey & Eastern Pennsylvania. The park is currently confined to sections of Pike, Monroe, & Northampton Counties, Pennsylvania, and Sussex & Warren Counties, New Jersey. The Delaware Water Gap N.R.A., or "The Gap" for short, surrounds and protects 40 miles of the nearly 300-mile Delaware River, the longest un-dammed U.S. river east of the Mississippi. The park is a highly sought after destination visited by thousands, if not millions, annually. It's breathtaking views, geographic location, & extensive list of outdoor recreation opportunities are likely enjoyed by all whom come to experience "The Gap." 

Park Origins:

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area has a rich & extensive history. Prior to colonial settlement, this region was a floodplain occupied by the Leni-Lenape. It was these natives whom respected the land while farming it's rich soil and hunting it's game on both sides of the Delaware River. With the arrival of early settlers came larger and more modern farms, homesteads, villages, resorts, & even a railroad. It wasn't until the mid-1900s that this land began transitioning into the park visitors know today. 

The creation of this renowned park began in August of 1955 when hurricanes Connie & Diane wreaked havoc upon the eastern United States. Excessive rainfall & flooding impacted hundreds of lives; nearly 100 Pennsylvania residents were killed from the flooding of the Brodhead Creek alone. In response, the United States Congress summoned the U.S. Army Corp. of Engineers to begin developing plans to construct a dam at the southern tip of Tocks Island; the dam would ultimately create a reservoir 40 miles long and a mile wide. Through eminent domain, the government began displacing approx. 600 families & property owners from their Delaware Valley homesteads. Enraged by the harsh realities of this project, public protests began. Many knew that the peaceful river valley they had cherished for generations would transition into a forever changed landscape with a newfound influx of sightseers & recreationists. Repeated opposition, combined with the nations involvement in the Vietnam War, began slowing the project. It was at this time that people also began challenging the feasibility of the dam wondering if the land could physically support such a massive reservoir. After having no choice except to reconsider the Tocks Island Dam, the government ultimately abandoned their plans in 1975. Cooperative efforts by all involved eventually lead to this 70,000+ acre National Park Unit that, to this day, protects the interests of wildlife & outdoor enthusiasts alike. 

Recreation Opportunities Available:

-Hunting & Fishing

-Boating (limited to non-motorized & trolling motors due to fluctuations of river depth)

-Hiking & Biking

-Wildlife Viewing

-Camping & Picnicking

-Cross-Country Skiing

-Educational Programs & Community Events (hosted by the National Park Service & Non-Profit Organizations)