Natural swimming hole
Turtle Beach (Delaware Water Gap NRA)
River · New Jersey
About this swimming hole
The National Park Service's designated Delaware River swim beach, six miles north of I-80 on Old Mine Road, with a grassy beach, picnic tables and restrooms. Opened in 2010 as a lifeguarded beach; per current NPS guidance there are no lifeguards, so you swim at your own risk. Per-vehicle entrance fees apply April through October.
Good to know
| Water type | River |
|---|---|
| Best season | June-September |
| Fees | Per-vehicle entrance fee April-October |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | Beach lot on Old Mine Road; no vessel launching |
| Amenities | restrooms, picnic tables |
| County | Warren County |
| Nearest town | Hardwick |
| Safety notes | No lifeguards per current NPS guidance; swim at own risk; strong currents, sharp drop-offs; beaches close when the Delaware reaches 15 ft at the Montague gauge |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Turtle Beach (Delaware Water Gap NRA)?
Yes — Turtle Beach (Delaware Water Gap NRA) is listed as a natural swimming spot in New Jersey. Heads-up: No lifeguards per current NPS guidance; swim at own risk; strong currents, sharp drop-offs; beaches close when the Delaware reaches 15 ft at the Montague gauge. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Turtle Beach (Delaware Water Gap NRA) require reservations?
No reservations are required at Turtle Beach (Delaware Water Gap NRA) based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Turtle Beach (Delaware Water Gap NRA)?
Reported fee info: Per-vehicle entrance fee April-October. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Turtle Beach (Delaware Water Gap NRA)?
The best season is typically June-September.