Last updated: April 8, 2025
Thing to Do
Exciting: Paddle from Lackawaxen to Sparrowbush
NPS
Paddle this longer stretch of river with a mix of calm waters, rapids, and rifts from Lackawaxen River Access to the New York DEC river access at Sparrowbush, NY. This stretch is approximately 20 river miles and takes on average 8-10 hours to paddle.
This long and adventurous stretch of the river has many sights to see. Immediately after leaving the Lackawaxen River Access you will pass over the remains of the old spillwater dam and underneath Roebling’s Delaware Aqueduct, the oldest wire cable suspension bridge in North America. It is recommended you pass under the bridge in the center of the river. After you clear the bridge, look to your left to see the D&H Towpath Trail which follows along remains of the historic Delaware & Hudson Canal, just on the other side of the path.
After making it through your first set of rapids, you will pass by the Highland River Access. If you need a break to stretch your legs or grab a bite to eat, several restaurants and the Barryville Saturday Farmers Market are located within walking distance of the Barryville River Access. The access is located just before the Barryville-Shohola Bridge, on the New York-side of the river.
After passing through the rapids after Barryville, you will not encounter rapids for quite some time. A little down the river on your left you can see a red barn and white house, which is the historic Cowen Farm, owned by the park. Next pass through Quicks Eddy and Pond Eddy and pass under the Pond Eddy Bridge.
Coming on your right will be the only public lands camping area in the park, Buckhorn Camping Area. This campsite requires a permit and is only reachable by boat. The camping area is adjacent to Staircase rapids, which is then followed by Knights Eddy.
After passing Knights Eddy and a small island, you will pass by the Mongaup River Access and through one final set of rapids before reaching the Hawk’s Nest, a well-known overlook area with sandstone cliffs. Cherry Island will be your last landmark before reaching Sparrowbush. Keep an eye out for eel weirs around this area. They are large “V” shaped structures in the river. Paddle around them and avoid entering the center of the “V”.
This stretch of river has a mix of calm and exciting stretches with four sets of rapids, Cedar Rapids, Shohola Rapids, Stairway Rapids, and Mongaup rapids; and two rifts, Butlers Rift and Mill Rift. Among these are both Class I & II rapids.
River Safety
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Wearing a life jacket is the #1 thing you can do to stay safe on the river. Make sure your life jacket fits snugly and is the correct size for you. Familiarize yourself with the life jacket rules of the river.
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During all seasons, there is always a risk of hypothermia. Even during summer, water temperatures can remain cold. Always come prepared, check the weather forecast, wear appropriate clothing, and bring an extra set of dry clothes.
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River conditions can change very quickly. Stay informed by calling the river hotline line at 845-252-7100 for daily information about river height, condition, and temperatures. The hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from April 1st to October 31st.
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Glass is prohibited on the river. Closed toed shoes are recommended to protect your feet.
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The river is surrounded by private property. Please respect landowners and do not stop or get off on private property.
Driving and Parking
There are no public shuttles, public transit, or ride-sharing services along the Upper Delaware River, as well as limited cell service. Unless you are renting equipment from a livery which offers shuttling services, make a plan on how you will get back to your vehicle after your trip. Parking lots are available at both the Lackawaxen and Sprrowbush River Accesses. Most visitors will leave one car at their starting point and another at their ending point.
Details
Duration
8-10 Hours
Paddling times can vary greatly depending on river height and conditions, wind, paddling skill, and the type of vessel being used. At an average river height of 2.5 - 4 feet, average paddling speed is 2 – 2.5 miles per hour.
Activity
Paddling
Life jackets are required to be within reach for everyone when on a boat, tube, or any other vessel or watercraft. One life jacket is required per person.
Life jackets are required to be worn for children 12 years old and younger at all times and for everyone when the river height is 6 feet or above, as measured at the Callicoon and Barryville gauges.
We strongly recommend keeping your life jacket on if you decide to swim in the water. The current is often stronger than it appears when you are boating or tubing.
Pets Allowed
Yes
You are welcome to enjoy the river with your pet. Dogs make great boat buddies, but there are some things to take into consideration before you get on the water.
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Know your dog and their abilities, temperament, and stamina. A hot summer day on the river can be draining on people and pets. Know your limits.
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A life jacket can save your pet if you capsize. Even though dogs can swim, river currents can be very swift and a life jacket will ensure peace of mind that your pet makes it back to shore. Do not tie your pet to your boat.
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Respect wildlife and other visitors. Remember that when you get out onto a river access, your dog needs to be leashed in order to protect your pet, other visitors, and wildlife.
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Pack It In, Pack It Out: There are no trash receptacles at river accesses. Help keep the park clean by picking up after your pooch and taking back with you any pet waste.
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Ticks and snakes are both present in the park. Reduce the risk to your pet by keeping them out of tall grass and vegetation.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Lackawaxen River Access
The Lackawaxen River Access is located at 130 Scenic Dr, Lackawaxen, PA 18435.
From NY 97: Driving on NY 97, cross Roebling’s Delaware Aqueduct near Minisink Ford, a few miles north of Barryville, NY. After crossing the aqueduct, turn right onto Scenic Drive and follow the road to the access. The Lackawaxen River Access will be located on the right, across the street from the Zane Grey Museum.
From US Highway 6/PA 590: From US Highway 6 turn onto PA 434. Drive approximately 1.5 miles and at a fork in the road, keep left onto PA 590 into Greeley. Follow PA 590 approximately 4.5 miles into Lackawaxen. In Lackawaxen, turn onto Scenic Drive. The Lackawaxen River Access will be located across the street from the Zane Grey Museum.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Although the Upper Delaware River is open year-round to recreate, summer is generally the best time of year to paddle due to warmer air and water temperatures.
At water temperatures of 70°F and below, there is an increased risk of cold water shock, which affects one’s ability to respond and recover after capsizing or falling into the water. As a result, life jackets must be worn between November 1 and April 30 when boating, canoeing, and kayaking. This is mandated in both Pennsylvania and New York boating law.
The ideal water temperature for water activities is between 70°F - 80°F. Summer water temperatures range from 50°F - 90s (°F), with spring and fall being cooler. Winter water temperatures can fall below freezing by December. Please check the river temperatures before setting off on your trip and ensure you have the appropriate equipment to have a safe trip.
Time of Day
Day
Paddling in daylight is recommended in order to avoid any river hazards.
Accessibility Information
The Lackawaxen River Access has a gravel ramp and designated accessible parking spots. An ADA accessible seasonal portable toilet is available behind the Zane Grey Museum, across the road from the access. Another seasonal portable restroom is available in the larger parking lot next to the museum. The river access at Sparrowbush has a steep dirt/gravel ramp and no designated accessible parking spots or accessible restroom. There are no ADA accessible ramps at either access.