National Park Service - Namanock Island - Campsites NI-6

- 7564+32, Sandyston, NJ 07851

For the New Jersey adventurer craving true escape and self-reliance, the National Park Service - Namanock Island Campsites offer an unmatched primitive camping experience right here in the Garden State's rugged northwestern corner. Specifically, Campsite NI-6 is part of the limited selection of designated river campsites located on Namanock Island, a serene landmass situated in the heart of the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River. This is not a traditional drive-up campground with RV hookups and modern conveniences; it is a true wilderness destination designed for those exploring the river by boat.

Managed by the National Park Service (NPS) as part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (DWGNRA), Namanock Island provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. The island sites are strictly reserved for those on multi-day river trips, guaranteeing an authentic sense of seclusion and privacy that is becoming increasingly rare in our region. Camping here requires meticulous planning and a commitment to Leave No Trace principles, rewarding visitors with stunning river views, unparalleled quiet, and a memorable night under the stars. If you are prepared to paddle in all your gear and pack out all your waste, Namanock Island Campsite NI-6 promises one of the most rewarding local camping experiences available to New Jersey residents.

Namanock Island is geographically located within the scenic bounds of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, with its New Jersey jurisdiction rooted in Sandyston Township, Sussex County. This prime location places it deep within the protected, scenic river corridor, making its preservation a priority.

The official location provided is a GPS-derived address:

7564+32, Sandyston, NJ 07851, USA

Critical Note on Access: Campsite NI-6, along with all Namanock Island sites, is accessible only by watercraft, such as a canoe, kayak, or small boat. There is no vehicular access to the island. Campers must launch from a designated river access point, such as Milford Beach (in Pennsylvania) or the nearby Namanock Access (New Jersey side - hand launch only), and paddle to the island. The NPS strictly regulates the use of these river sites, and they are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis for those completing multi-day river trips. Regulations often require a minimum river mileage traveled (typically 14 miles for a one-night trip) to qualify for use of these overnight sites, underscoring the purpose of supporting extended river excursions. Due to these requirements, a detailed trip plan and knowledge of river safety are essential for anyone heading to Campsite NI-6.

The charm of Namanock Island camping lies in its simplicity. Services are intentionally limited to maintain the area's wilderness character and ecological integrity. Campers should arrive completely self-sufficient, prepared to handle all water, sanitation, and safety needs independently. The amenities provided are foundational for low-impact camping:

• Designated Tent Sites: Clear, flat areas for tent setup, typically limited to five tents and ten people per individual site (like NI-6).
• Steel Fire Grate: A permanent, designated fire ring at the site for small, contained campfires. Fires are only permitted within this grate, and campers must use dead and fallen wood collected from the ground.
• Primitive Toilet Facility: Sites on Namanock Island generally include a basic vault or composting toilet.
• Picnic Table: A simple wooden table is typically available at the campsite for food preparation and dining.

Important Service Limitations:

• No Potable Water: There is no drinking water source available on the island. All water for drinking and cooking must be packed in or filtered/purified from the river (boiling for at least three minutes is recommended).
• No Electricity, Wi-Fi, or Cell Service: Complete disconnection from modern utilities is part of the primitive experience.
• Pack In / Pack Out: No trash receptacles are provided. All garbage, including food waste, must be carried out of the island by the camper.

Campsite NI-6 on Namanock Island offers a compelling array of natural features and recreational highlights that draw New Jersey’s dedicated outdoor community:

• Exceptional Seclusion: Being a boat-in river island, the feeling of being truly removed from civilization is immediate. The sites are well-spaced, enhancing personal privacy.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The river corridor is a major flyway and habitat. Visitors frequently report sightings of bald eagles, various hawks, waterfowl, and other river wildlife, offering spectacular birdwatching opportunities.
• Stargazing Quality: Due to the remoteness and minimal light pollution over the water, the night skies above Namanock Island are often breathtakingly clear, perfect for astronomy enthusiasts.
• Base for River Activities: The site is perfectly situated for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on the non-tidal, flatwater section of the Middle Delaware River, which is suitable for all skill levels.
• Historical Significance: The island was historically used by the Lenape Indians, adding a layer of cultural depth to the natural landscape.
• Immediate Water Access: Enjoy direct access to the river for swimming, provided proper river safety is always observed (always wear a life jacket, beware of currents and sharp drop-offs).

Since Campsite NI-6 is a remote, primitive site without dedicated on-site staff, all administrative and regulatory inquiries must be directed to the managing authority, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

Managing Authority (Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area):

Address (Mailing): P.O. Box 2, Bushkill, PA 18324

Phone (General Information): 570-426-2452

For up-to-date information on river conditions, camping regulations, and any necessary permits, it is highly recommended to contact the NPS and check the official DWGNRA website prior to planning your trip. The site is part of a river campsite zone, and while first-come, first-served is common, official rules are subject to change.

Namanock Island’s Campsite NI-6 is uniquely suited for New Jersey residents seeking a deep connection with the outdoors that feels worlds away, yet remains locally accessible. It represents the pinnacle of primitive camping convenience near home, demanding the high level of preparation characteristic of backcountry travel but eliminating the need for long-distance travel to remote states.

This particular site offers a healthy challenge for seasoned campers and an invaluable opportunity for families to teach self-sufficiency and environmental responsibility, particularly the crucial "Pack In, Pack Out" ethos. For the local paddler, it is the essential overnight destination that completes a multi-day journey down one of the region’s most beautiful rivers. Utilizing NI-6 is not just a vacation; it is a way to appreciate and preserve the protected natural landscape of our own state. It guarantees an unparalleled opportunity for mental reset—a chance to trade the concrete jungle for a quiet, secluded island on the Delaware, ensuring that the wild heart of New Jersey remains a close and cherished resource.

National Park Service - Namanock Island - Campsites NI-6

7564+32, Sandyston, NJ 07851, USA