Alosa Campsites

Overview

The Alosa Campsites are boat-in only sites located on the west (Pennsylvanian) shore of the Delaware River near Bushkill, Pennsylvania. The side of the river with the campsites will be on your right while traveling downstream. This section of the river offers unspoiled views, excellent boating, fishing, and birding opportunities within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River. These reservation-only campsites are available to boaters who are on a multi-day river trip. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area also offers other boat in only campsites that are $16 and available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information on the first-come, first-served campsites and river campsite regulations in general, visit: http://www.nps.gov/dewa/planyourvisit/river-camping.htm

Recreation

This part of the Delaware River is unspoiled as it travels through the rural landscape of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River. A mixture of flat water and a few riffles make this section ideal for beginning paddlers and those seeking a relaxing trip. Fishing is permitted on the Delaware River during the appropriate state-specific seasons. Anglers must possess a valid PA or NJ fishing license. Hunting is not permitted in or near the campsites.

Facilities

The Alosa Campsites are composed of six individual reservation-only campsites. Five of the campsites hold a maximum capacity of six people per site (AL4,6,8,10,12), and one campsite holds a max capacity of 10 people (AL2). The site has three boat take-outs. Each take-out serves two campsites: the upstream most serving sites AL2 & AL4, middle serving AL6 & AL8, and the furthest downstream serving AL10 & AL12. There is a steep, 10-foot bank between the water's edge and the campsite locations; boats will need to be pulled out of the water. There is a large sign at the first boat take-out that states "Alosa Campsites". Each take-out has signs indicating their location and each campsite is clearly numbered. Porta Johns are located on site for campers to utilize. Or dig 6-8-inch-deep cat holes 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites Each individual campsite is outfitted with a fire ring with grate and has enough space for a several small to mid-size tents. There is no potable water (for drinking or cooking) available onsite. No vehicles are allowed at these sites. They are designated for boat-in only river trips.

Natural Features

This section of the Delaware River is known for its American Shad (Alosa sapidissima) fisheries, which is how the campsite got its name. The campsites are located on a bench above the Delaware River underneath a grove of hardwood trees. The hardwood forest is home to wildlife, including the eastern gray squirrel, white-tailed deer, and the American black bear, if you are lucky you might even see a bald eagle.

Nearby Attractions

The campsites are located approximately 2.5 miles downriver of the Bushkill Access and approximately 6 miles upriver from Smithfield Beach. PLEASE NOTE: Only campers on legitimate multi-day river trips may stay overnight at the Alosa Campsites. No vechicles are permitted at Alosa Campsites.

Charges & Cancellations

A $10.00 service fee will apply if you modify your reservation or change your stay dates. Cancelling your reservation prior to 11:59 pm Eastern Time the night before your stay will incur a non refundable $10 cancellation fee. 

Refunds will only be issued for park implemented closures.

Directions From The River
The Alosa Campsites are located on the right hand (west) shore of the Delaware River approximately 2.5 miles downstream of Bushkill Access, 1.2 Miles downstream of the Rivers Bend Group Campground (left/east shore of river), and 2,000 feet downstream of Turtle Island, formerly called "Sambo Island". The island is a small (300 x 700 ft.), closer to the right/west side of the river. For the safest route, stay to the left/east side of Turtle (Sambo) Island and in the main channel of the river. Once you reach the downstream side of the island, move to the right/west shoreline of the river and watch for the large Alosa Campsite sign (see photos for sign). The sign is approximately 1,000 ft. from the downstream end of Turtle Island, about 8 feet in from the river's edge. The large Alosa Campsite sign is also at the location of the 1st boat take-out, this take-out serves campsites R1 & R2. Approximately 175 ft. downstream of the first take-out is the 2nd take-out, which serves campsites R3 & R4, than approximately 240 ft. downstream is the 3rd and final take-out which serves campsites R5 & R6.