Alosa Campsites

The Alosa Campsites are boat-in only sites located on the west (Pennsylvania) 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 and excellent boating, fishing and birding opportunities within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River. Only campers on legitimate multi-day river trips may stay overnight, and no vehicles are permitted at the sites. A mixture of flat water and a few riffles makes 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, and anglers must possess a valid PA or NJ fishing license. Hunting is not permitted in or near the campsites. There are six individual campsites. Five hold a maximum of six people per site (AL4, 6, 8, 10, 12), and one holds a maximum of 10 people (AL2). Three boat take-outs each serve two campsites: the upstream-most serves AL2 and AL4, the middle serves AL6 and AL8, and the furthest downstream serves AL10 and AL12. A large sign at the first boat take-out states "Alosa Campsites"; each take-out has signs indicating its location, and each campsite is clearly numbered. There is a steep, 10-foot bank between the water's edge and the campsite locations, so boats will need to be pulled out of the water. Each individual campsite is outfitted with a fire ring with grate and has enough space for several small to mid-size tents. Porta Johns are located on site for campers to use; otherwise, dig 6-8-inch-deep cat holes 200 feet from water, trails and campsites. There is no potable water for drinking or cooking available onsite. This section of the Delaware River is known for its American shad (Alosa sapidissima) fisheries, which is how the campsites got their name. They are located on a bench above the river underneath a grove of hardwood trees, 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. The campsites are approximately 2.5 miles downriver of the Bushkill Access and approximately 6 miles upriver from Smithfield Beach.