National Park Service - Namanock Island - Campsites NI-2

For outdoor enthusiasts in the New Jersey region, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area stands as one of the most magnificent natural escapes in the Northeast. Within this sprawling park lies a hidden gem specifically for those who love the rhythm of the river: Namanock Island. Among the designated landing spots on this lush, mile-long island is Campsite NI-2. Managed by the National Park Service, this site offers a unique "boat-in" primitive camping experience that is perfect for Garden State residents looking to truly unplug and immerse themselves in the wilderness of the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River.

Choosing a campsite like NI-2 means embracing a tradition of river travel that has existed for centuries. Namanock Island itself holds deep historical significance, once serving as a workshop and fishing ground for the Lenape people. Today, it provides a sanctuary for modern-day explorers. As a "primitive" site, NI-2 is designed for simplicity; there are no paved roads or electric hookups here. Instead, you are treated to the sounds of the flowing Delaware, the sight of bald eagles nesting in the tall hardwood trees, and the total seclusion that only an island can provide. For local families and seasoned paddlers alike, it represents the pinnacle of back-to-basics adventure right in our own backyard.

Namanock Island is located within the boundaries of Sandyston, New Jersey, specifically at the coordinates 7584+8M, Sandyston, NJ 07851. What makes this location truly special—and something every visitor must plan for—is that it is exclusively accessible by watercraft. There is no public road that leads directly to the island. To reach NI-2, campers typically launch their canoes, kayaks, or rafts from upriver points such as Milford Beach in Pennsylvania. From Milford, it is approximately a four-mile paddle downstream to the island.

For those staging their trip, on-site parking is available at the various National Park Service boat launches, such as Milford Beach (PA) or the Namanock Recreation Site (NJ). If you are parking at these developed access points, be aware that a small daily fee may be required during the peak season (typically mid-April through October). Once you are on the water, the island becomes visible as a long, forested stretch in the middle of the river. NI-2 is positioned to offer easy river access, making it a convenient landing spot for those navigating the main channel. This "water-only" accessibility ensures that the island remains quiet and free from the motorized traffic of the mainland, preserving its status as a tranquil retreat.

As a primitive National Park Service facility, the services at NI-2 are focused on safety and environmental preservation rather than luxury. The Park Service ensures the area is well-regulated so that every visitor can enjoy a clean and safe environment. The services and regulations provided include:

• Designated primitive tent sites that are cleared and maintained for overnight use.
• Individual fire rings with steel grates, which are the only authorized spots for campfires.
• Regular monitoring by NPS Rangers to ensure compliance with park rules and visitor safety.
• Information kiosks and signage at mainland launch points to help you navigate the river zones.
• On-site parking at mainland access points to support multi-day river trips.
• Pack-in, pack-out garbage policy enforcement to keep the island pristine.
• Access to primitive pit toilets (often located centrally on the island or at nearby recreation sites like the Namanock Canoe Launch).

The true draw of Namanock Island and Site NI-2 lies in its natural features and the specific highlights of the island lifestyle. It is a place where you can witness the best of New Jersey’s riverside ecology. Key highlights include:

• Kid-Friendly Adventure: The site is considered "good for kids" because it offers a safe, bounded area to explore, and the river currents around the island are generally manageable for family paddling trips.
• Wildlife Viewing: Namanock is a prime spot for birdwatching, particularly for bald eagles, ospreys, and various waterfowl that frequent the riverbanks.
• Stunning River Views: The site offers a front-row seat to the sunset over the Delaware River, with clear vistas that are perfect for photography.
• Deep Shade: The island is covered in mature hardwood trees, providing a cool canopy that is essential for comfort during the humid New Jersey summer months.
• Solitude and Privacy: Because it is an island-only site, the number of people you will encounter is limited only to other boaters, creating a sense of being "miles away" from civilization.
• Proximity to Waterfalls: A short morning paddle from the island can lead you to the Pennsylvania side of the river, where you can hike to the famous Raymondskill Falls or Dingmans Falls.

If you are planning to visit Namanock Island NI-2, it is important to remember that these sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis for those on bona-fide river trips. Under current NPS regulations, river camping is intended for boaters who are traveling long distances (at least 14 miles for a one-night trip). There are no reservations or fees for the primitive sites themselves, but you must ensure you are following the zonal camping rules established by the park.

Address: 7584+8M, Sandyston, NJ 07851, USA (Access via Delaware River)

Phone: (570) 426-2452 (Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Information)

What makes NI-2 worth choosing for your next New Jersey outing is the sheer rarity of the experience. Very few places in the state allow you to legally camp on an island in the middle of a scenic river. It is a location that rewards effort; the paddle to the site is just challenging enough to feel like an accomplishment, but easy enough for a beginner to handle. For families, it is a fantastic way to teach children about nature, water safety, and the importance of preserving our public lands. The island’s reputation for being "good for kids" means you can feel confident bringing the next generation of campers here.

Furthermore, the maintenance provided by the National Park Service ensures that despite being "primitive," the site remains a dignified and clean place to stay. You get the benefit of a fire ring for cooking and a designated flat area for your tent, all while being surrounded by 70,000 acres of protected parkland. Whether you are fishing for bass from the island’s edge, listening to the owls hoot at night, or waking up to a misty river morning, Namanock Island NI-2 offers a level of peace and natural beauty that is hard to find anywhere else in the tri-state area. It is more than just a place to sleep; it is a gateway to the heart of the Delaware River valley, providing a memory-making experience that will last a lifetime.