Rain clouds settle into Dunnfield Ravine NJ, seen from atop Mt. Minsi PA.

Weather made this park.

In the 19^th century, hotels and railroads promoted the Water Gap as a refuge from the summer heat in the cities, and the area also became a rural escape for campers and for those who could afford a “farm” as a second home. Settlements along the river, though, were in the path of periodic flooding, and discussion of a flood control–given new urgency by the loss of life in the 1955 hurricanes—caused the Tocks Island Dam to be proposed. Though the proposed dam was never built, the lands acquired for the project are now Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

History & Timeline of the Park | The Tocks Island Dam Controversy

Weather in the park | Current Forecasts & Sunrise/Sunset |  River Conditions

Feature pages on Environmental Factors