Smithfield Beach, The Delaware Water Gap Travel Guide

4.4 (808)

Enjoy swimming, boating, and picnicking at this scenic beach along the Delaware River in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

Smithfield Beach, nestled in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, offers a refreshing escape with its grassy beach, access to the Delaware River, and scenic views. It's a perfect spot for swimming, boating, picnicking, and connecting with nature.

A brief summary to Smithfield Beach

River Rd, East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, 18302, US
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 6 am-8:30 pm
Tuesday 6 am-8:30 pm
Wednesday 6 am-8:30 pm
Thursday 6 am-8:30 pm
Friday 6 am-8:30 pm
Saturday 6 am-8:30 pm
Sunday 6 am-8:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Smithfield Beach.

Arrive early during summer weekends as the parking area fills up quickly, and the area closes once it's full.
Bring your own grill for a barbecue, as personal grills are permitted, but make sure to bring everything you need for the day.
Wear a life jacket while in the water, as strong currents and sharp drop-offs can be present.
Note that pets are not permitted at Smithfield Beach from Memorial Day until Labor Day, except when launching or retrieving vessels.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Tour the Castle

Columcille Megalith Park

Delaware View House

Delaware Water Gap

Explore Smithfield Beach on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Smithfield Beach, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From East Stroudsburg, PA, follow River Road north for approximately 7 miles. Smithfield Beach will be on your left. Be aware that parking is limited and the beach can get crowded during peak season. Parking fees are charged from April through October. As of 2025, the daily fee is $20 per vehicle. Day passes are available through recreation.gov or via a drop box at the site. An annual pass costs $60.
Walking

Smithfield Beach is accessible via the McDade Recreational Trail. If you are already on the trail, follow it to the designated access point for the beach. There is no fee for those walking through Smithfield Beach on the McDade Recreational Trail.

Discover more about Smithfield Beach

Smithfield Beach, a popular destination within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, provides a delightful retreat for nature enthusiasts and recreation seekers. Situated on the banks of the scenic Delaware River, the beach features a grassy area perfect for picnicking and sunbathing.Visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the river, launch a canoe or kayak for a leisurely paddle, or simply relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings. The beach also provides access to the Joseph M. McDade Recreational Trail, inviting hikers and walkers to explore the area's natural beauty.Smithfield Beach is more than just a recreational spot; it's a place steeped in history. The area played a role in the conservation and environmental movements of the 1960s, when a proposal to dam the Delaware River near the beach sparked controversy and activism.Today, Smithfield Beach continues to offer a welcoming space for visitors to connect with nature and enjoy the many recreational opportunities of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the river or an adventurous exploration of the surrounding trails, Smithfield Beach provides a memorable experience.