MC-2 River Campsite

For Pennsylvania residents looking to escape the hustle of everyday life and truly immerse themselves in the wild, MC-2 River Campsite in Lehman Township offers a rare and authentic "back-to-basics" experience. Located within the protected boundaries of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, this campsite is part of a specialized network of primitive river sites designed for those who navigate the Delaware River by canoe, kayak, or tube. Unlike many of the more developed campgrounds in the Poconos, MC-2 is a site where nature is the primary amenity. It provides a quiet, secluded haven where the only sounds are the rhythmic flow of the river and the calls of native birds. It is an ideal destination for seasoned outdoorsmen and families alike who wish to experience the landscape as it appeared centuries ago.

The philosophy at MC-2 River Campsite is one of preservation and simplicity. As a primitive site, it does not offer the typical commercial distractions found in private RV parks. Instead, it provides a designated safe space for overnight stays amidst old-growth hardwoods and vibrant local flora. This site is particularly valued by local Pennsylvanians who participate in multi-day river trips, serving as a vital resting point along the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River. Because the National Park Service manages these sites with a "Leave No Trace" mandate, visitors can expect a pristine environment where the impact of man is kept to an absolute minimum, allowing the natural ecosystem of Lehman Township to thrive undisturbed.

Location and accessibility are unique features of the MC-2 experience. Situated in the southern portion of Lehman Township, PA, the site is strategically placed along the banks of the Delaware River. While many river campsites are strictly boat-in only, MC-2 is noted for its proximity to local access points, making it more reachable than some of the deeper wilderness sites. For those traveling by road, the campsite is accessible via the scenic corridors of Pike County, specifically near the Bushkill area. However, the true spirit of MC-2 is best captured by arriving from the water. It is positioned within a specific "camping zone" that requires boaters to have traveled a minimum distance from their launch point, ensuring that the site remains a dedicated resource for river travelers rather than a high-traffic drive-in location. On-site parking is available for those who coordinate their land-based arrival, though the footprint is kept small to maintain the site's rustic character.

The services offered at MC-2 River Campsite reflect its status as a primitive facility. There are no electrical hookups, Wi-Fi, or snack bars here. Instead, the services provided are those essential for safety and basic comfort in the woods. The National Park Service ensures that the site is clearly marked and equipped with the foundational infrastructure needed to prevent forest fires and manage waste responsibly. This makes it an excellent "training ground" for younger campers to learn about fire safety, water purification, and environmental stewardship under the canopy of some of Pennsylvania's most beautiful forests.

• Designated primitive tent sites with level ground for comfortable sleeping.
• Heavy-duty steel fire grates provided at each site for safe campfire management.
• Access to the river for water collection (treatment/filtration required).
• Proximity to established river landing zones for easy boat docking.
• On-site parking areas specifically designed to accommodate smaller vehicles and trailers.
• Informational signage regarding local wildlife, including bear safety protocols.
• Regular monitoring by National Park Service rangers to ensure site safety.
• Kid-friendly layout with manageable terrain for younger explorers.

Features and highlights of MC-2 River Campsite revolve around its spectacular natural setting. One of the primary draws for local residents is the world-class fishing available right from the riverbank. The Delaware River in this region is famous for its American Shad, Smallmouth Bass, and Walleye, providing hours of entertainment for anglers of all ages. Additionally, the site serves as an excellent vantage point for wildlife photography and birdwatching; bald eagles are frequently seen hunting along this stretch of the river. The lack of light pollution also makes MC-2 a premier location for stargazing, offering a clear view of the Milky Way that is simply impossible to find closer to the cities of Eastern Pennsylvania.

• Prime riverfront real estate with direct, unobstructed views of the Delaware River.
• Mature hardwood canopy providing excellent natural shade during the hot summer months.
• Close proximity to the famous hiking trails of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
• An excellent spot for spotting native wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and diverse bird species.
• A quiet, "no-wake" atmosphere that prioritizes silence and natural sounds.
• Spacious site layout that allows groups to spread out without feeling crowded.
• Historical significance as part of the ancient travel routes used by the Lenape people.
• Easy access to the water for swimming, provided safety guidelines are followed.

As this is a federally managed site within a National Recreation Area, campers should be aware that specific permits may be required depending on the season and the size of the group. For current information on river conditions, water levels, and any seasonal restrictions, visitors are encouraged to contact the park headquarters in Bushkill.

Contact Information:
Address: Lehman Township, PA 18328, USA
Park Information: (570) 426-2452

What is worth choosing about MC-2 River Campsite is the pure, unadulterated access to the Delaware River. For many Pennsylvanians, "camping" has become synonymous with crowded RV parks and noisy generators. Choosing MC-2 is a deliberate choice to return to a more meaningful form of recreation. It is worth choosing because it forces a slower pace of life; you aren't there to watch TV or browse the internet, you are there to watch the river move and listen to the wind in the trees. The "one-night stay" regulation commonly applied to these river sites ensures a high turnover of visitors, meaning the site stays clean and the ground is never overused.

Furthermore, the site is worth choosing for its role in a larger adventure. If you are planning a multi-day paddle from Milford down toward the Water Gap, MC-2 is a perfectly timed stop that allows you to rest your muscles and enjoy a meal by the fire before the final leg of your journey. It offers a sense of accomplishment that you simply don't get at a drive-in site. For families, it is worth choosing as a way to unplug the kids and introduce them to the realities of the natural world—seeing a bald eagle dive for a fish or learning how to set up a tent by moonlight are memories that last a lifetime. In the landscape of Pennsylvania camping, MC-2 River Campsite stands out as a guardian of the primitive tradition, offering a peaceful, safe, and breathtakingly beautiful sanctuary for all who travel the river.