Heading to the Delaware River? Here’s How to Stay Safe This Summer

Visitors heading to the Upper Delaware River this summer should prepare for more than sunshine and scenic views.

National Park Service Park Ranger Susie Kaspar says warm weather can bring a range of safety concerns, from heat-related illnesses to unexpected cold-water exposure, even during the height of summer.

“If somebody’s experiencing any type of symptoms where they’re just not feeling well, you want to make sure you get them out of the conditions,” Kaspar said. She recommends getting people into the shade, cooling them with water, and ending their trip if they begin showing signs of heat exhaustion.

Kasper also reminded visitors that river temperatures remain much cooler than the air. Even when daytime temperatures are comfortable, prolonged exposure to 70-degree water can lead to hypothermia, particularly for children or anyone who remains wet for an extended period.

“We actually had somebody just a couple of weeks ago who had a hypothermia-related illness because it was really, really cold out for the summertime,” she said.

The National Park Service also encourages visitors to give wildlife plenty of space. The Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River is home to black bears, bald eagles, deer, snakes, waterfowl, and many other species.

Kasper recalled watching a young fawn swim across the river during a staff training exercise. While the instinct may be to intervene, she said people should allow nature to take its course.

Bald eagles are especially active this time of year as young birds begin leaving their nests and learning to hunt. Visitors can enjoy watching them, Kaspar said, but should keep a respectful distance and avoid loud noises that could disturb them.

Snakes, including rattlesnakes, also inhabit the region. While encounters are uncommon, Kaspar recommends using a paddle or walking stick when hiking through tall grass near the shoreline to avoid accidentally stepping on one.

She also asks visitors not to feed ducks or geese.

Foods such as bread, chips, or marshmallows are not part of the birds’ natural diet, she said, and feeding young birds can interfere with their ability to forage for food after the summer visitor season ends.

Pet owners are reminded to keep dogs leashed in accordance with New York and Pennsylvania laws, clean up after them, and consider fitting dogs with life jackets before heading onto the river.

Kaspar also emphasized respecting private property along the river corridor.

Visitors should use designated public access areas for breaks, avoid stopping in front of private homes, and follow the park’s “pack it in, pack it out” policy by taking all trash with them.

Glass containers are prohibited on the river because broken glass remains one of the most common causes of injuries to barefoot visitors. Kasper recommends wearing sturdy river shoes or old sneakers instead of flip-flops or sandals to protect against sharp rocks, fishing hooks, and broken glass.

For current river conditions, weather updates, and safety information, visitors can check the National Park Service’s website and social media channels or call the Upper Delaware River Hotline at 845-252-7100, which is updated daily by 9 a.m. through October 31.

Kaspar also reminds visitors that cell phone coverage can be limited in parts of the park, making it important to plan ahead before launching on the river.

“Be safe out there, everyone,” she said. “And don’t forget those life jackets.”

Image Credit: nps.gov/upde