Three visitors stand next to sign with a stack of inner tubes. A park ranger speaks to them.
1-2 Hours

Float from Mongaup to Sparrowbush

Upper Delaware Scenic & Recreational River

Float this short stretch of river from Mongaup River Access to the New York DEC river access at Sparrowbush, NY. This stretch is approximately 3 river miles and takes on average 1.5 hours to float.

Float this short stretch of river from Mongaup River Access to the New York DEC river access at Sparrowbush, NY. This stretch is approximately 3 river miles and takes on average 1.5 hours to float. This stretch of river has one set of rapids, Mongaup Rapids, located right at the Mongaup River Access. These rapids are Class II rapids. There are also several rifts, including Butlers Rift and Mill Rift, located at the first major bend in the river after Mongaup and around Cherry Island, respectively. This stretch will allow you to float past the Hawk’s Nest, a well-known overlook area with sandstone cliffs, right after Butlers Rift. River Safety 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. 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. 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. Glass is prohibited on the river. Closed toed shoes are recommended to protect your feet. 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 Sparrowbush accesses. Most visitors will leave one car at their starting point and another at their ending point.

Tags

River TubingRiver and RiparianScenic ViewsUpper Delaware Scenic and Recreational Riverinner tubingTubingriver tubingmongaup river access

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Details

Duration

1-2 Hours

Duration Details

Floating times can vary greatly depending on river height and conditions, wind, weather and the type of vessel being used. At an average river height of 2.5 - 4 feet, an average floating speed is 2 miles per hour.

Fees Apply

No

Seasons

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility

The Mongaup River Access has a no ramp and requires one to walk a short distance over a dirt path strewn with rocks to reach the river. There are no designated accessible parking spots. A seasonal portable restroom is available at the access. The ramp at the access at Sparrowbush is paved but quite steep. There are designated accessible parking spots. There are no ADA accessible ramps nor restrooms at the access.

Pets

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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Ticks and snakes are both present in the park. Reduce the risk to your pet by keeping them out of tall grass and vegetation. Please note due to the stability and size of the vessel, boats such as rafts or canoes may be safer and easier to take on a river trip with your pet in comparison to inner tubes.

Reservations

No

Location

Mongaup River Access

View on NPS.govBack to Upper Delaware

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