EAST STROUDSBURG BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Two Days Downriver: Dingman’s Ferry to Smithfield Beach on the Delaware
A two-day, 21-mile paddling and camping trip from Dingman's Ferry Bridge to Smithfield Beach — this guide lays out the route, sights, and practicals for the Adventure Sports outing.
Two Days Downriver: Dingman’s Ferry to Smithfield Beach on the Delaware.
Adventure brief
Two Days Downriver: Dingman’s Ferry to Smithfield Beach on the Delaware
Set along the Delaware River in northeastern Pennsylvania, this two-day river journey runs 21 miles from the Dingman’s Ferry area to Smithfield Beach. Over the course of a full weekend you paddle through a national recreation area, pass islands and riverside parks, watch for abundant wildlife and spend one night camping on the riverbank.
Set along the pristine Delaware River in Pennsylvania, the 2 Day Dingman’s Ferry to Smithfield Beach paddle trip offers a rewarding 21-mile journey through some of the region’s most captivating river landscapes. Beginning at Dingmans Ferry Bridge near East Stroudsburg, paddlers trace the river’s winding route, passing under lush forest canopies and alongside rugged shorelines shaped by ancient geological forces. This two-day adventure combines the exhilaration of river paddling with an overnight camping experience, perfect for adventurers who want to embrace the outdoors fully and disconnect from everyday life.
The Delaware River, a vital waterway steeped in history, has long served as a natural boundary and transport route. Today, it offers a serene escape into nature’s embrace where visitors can spot ospreys hovering overhead and deer grazing near the water’s edge. The section from Dingman’s Ferry to Smithfield Beach stands out for its blend of quiet river stretches and dynamic currents, making it suitable for paddlers with moderate experience.
Travelers will find themselves surrounded by the characteristic hardwood forests of the Pocono region, home to eastern hemlock and vibrant wildflowers in warmer months. Wildlife enthusiasts might catch glimpses of beavers carving out their territories or bald eagles soaring overhead. One of the trip’s highlights is camping under the stars on a quiet riverbank, where the sounds of flowing water gently lull you to sleep, offering a genuine wilderness experience.
This trip is designed for paddlers of all ages and skill levels eager to soak in the peaceful yet invigorating atmosphere. With approximately seven hours of paddling spread across two days, adventurers can savor the scenery without feeling rushed. Paddlers should come prepared with suitable gear for the variable weather and be ready to refine their paddling skills on varying river conditions.
Smithfield Beach offers a scenic finish with its sandy shore ideal for stretching tired muscles and soaking in the final views of this expansive river canyon. Its proximity to East Stroudsburg makes logistics simple, as travelers can access local amenities and accommodations before or after their trip.
Embrace a gateway into Pennsylvania’s natural heritage through this guided or self-led paddle that melds water, wildlife, and wilderness. The 2 Day Dingman’s Ferry to Smithfield Beach trip stands out in the Delaware River corridor as a memorable, accessible river adventure that captures the spirit of outdoor exploration.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic
Key stops and sights along the 21-mile Delaware River route from launch to beach.
Dingman's Access Canoe Launch
The launch point is at Dingman's Access; the trip begins just south of the historic Dingmans Ferry Bridge.
Midriver Islands and Parklands
Paddlers pass several islands and riverfront parks that punctuate the downstream run and provide frequent wildlife-viewing opportunities.
Overnight Camp
The itinerary includes one night of camping on the riverbank, taking advantage of abundant camping opportunities along the route.
Smithfield Beach
The downstream finish is at scenic Smithfield Beach, the trip’s endpoint after roughly 21 miles of paddling.
The trip is described as a two-day, 21-mile outing with one night of camping and is presented as suitable for all ages and ability levels; participants should plan for sustained paddling over two days.
What the day feels like
What Two Days on the River Feels Like
Expect two full days of river travel and exploration: you launch near Dingman’s Ferry, paddle downstream past islands and parklands, keep an eye out for birds and mammals on the shoreline, and stop to camp overnight before completing the downstream run to Smithfield Beach.
THE ROUTE
Dingman’s Ferry to Smithfield Beach — 21 Miles
The trip covers a 21-mile stretch of the Delaware, beginning just south of the historic Dingmans Ferry Bridge and finishing at Smithfield Beach, combining a day of downstream paddling with a night on the river.
THE WILDLIFE
Frequent Wildlife Sightings
Paddlers commonly encounter local wildlife along the banks and islands, including deer, bears and bald eagles, making the route as much a nature outing as a paddling trip.
THE CAMP
One Night Under the Stars
The itinerary includes one night of camping on the river, with abundant riverside camping opportunities that extend the trip beyond a single-day paddle.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Two days on the river, covering 21 miles total; listed paddle time for the route is 7 hours.
The trip launches at Dingman's Access Canoe Launch, beginning just south of the Dingmans Ferry Bridge.
Adventure Sports states that they will provide everything you need for the trip.
This outing is operated by Adventure Sports and is bookable online through the operator.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip in days and total distance?
The outing runs two days and covers 21 miles.
How much paddle time should participants expect?
The listed paddle time for the route is 7 hours.
Where do we launch?
The launch point is Dingman's Access Canoe Launch, just south of Dingmans Ferry Bridge.
Is camping included?
Yes — the itinerary includes one night of camping with abundant camping opportunities along the river.
Do I need to bring my own kayak or canoe?
Adventure Sports will provide everything you need for the Delaware River trip.
Is this trip suitable for beginners or families?
The trip is described as great for all ages and ability levels.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-16T09:41:46.242Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.