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Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Swimming (Lifeguarded Beaches)
Title 2009 Season
Please check back next Spring for 2009 hours and fees
 
 

Swimming
The recreation area staffs Milford Beach PA and Smithfield Beach PA with lifeguards in summer. Swimming elsewhere is not recommended, as strong currents, sharp drop-offs, and constantly changing river conditions make many areas unsafe for swimming.
The park strongly recommends the use of PFD's (life vests) when swimming in the river or in lakes and ponds.

NEVER try to swim across the river! Currents are deceiving -- many people have drowned attempting to swim from one side of the river to the other.

 

Swimming Restrictions
Swimming is NOT allowed at Dingmans Falls PA, George W. Childs Recreation Site PA, or Van Campens Glen NJ. Swimming is NOT allowed within 50 feet of a boat launch, a canoe launch, or the top of any waterfall. Don't swim alone!

 

Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages are permitted only in some areas of the park. Please review the park's
alcohol policy.

Sketch of a hand underwater and reaching for a life jacket  

Did You Know?
... chief causes of water fatalities on the Delaware River are: (1) swimming without a lifejacket (PFD); (2) trying to swim across the river; and (3) swimming after drinking lots of alcohol. Wear a pfd and swim at lifeguarded beaches. DON'T drink-then-swim! NEVER TRY TO SWIM ACROSS THE RIVER!
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Last Updated: November 25, 2008 at 14:52 EST