Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park is a public state park in New Jersey in Hunterdon County County. Spanning 6,595 acres and established in 1974, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | New Jersey |
| County | Hunterdon County |
| Park Size | 6,595 acres |
| Established | 1974 |
Location & Getting There
Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park is located New Jersey. The park’s coordinates are 40.500565, -75.0531541.
Things to Do
New Jersey state parks defy the state’s industrial reputation, protecting vast tracts of wilderness including the unique Pine Barrens, Appalachian ridgetops, and wide Atlantic beaches. Visitors can hike sections of the Appalachian Trail, kayak through the tea-colored waters of the Pinelands, swim at ocean or glacial lake beaches, fish in well-stocked streams, and camp in deep forest. The state also preserves crucial moments in American history, offering tours of key Revolutionary War sites, battlefields, and historic villages.
Best Time to Visit
Fall (September–October) is arguably the best time, offering cool hiking weather, beautiful hardwood foliage in the northern parks, and fewer bugs in the Pine Barrens. Summer (June–August) is peak season for coastal parks and lake swimming, but inland parks can be hot, humid, and buggy. Spring brings excellent birding during the coastal migration and good conditions for trout fishing. Winter is quiet, perfect for solitary hikes and, occasionally, cross-country skiing when snow falls.
Visitor Tips
Entrance fees are typically charged from Memorial Day through Labor Day ($5-$10 per vehicle for residents, $10-$20 for non-residents). A State Park Pass ($50 for residents) covers parking for the season. In the heavily forested Pine Barrens (like Wharton State Forest), ticks are extremely common from early spring through late fall; use strong insect repellent and perform thorough tick checks. Coastal parks like Island Beach State Park often fill to capacity by mid-morning on summer weekends, so arrive very early.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit New Jersey state parks?
Entrance fees are typically $5-$10 for residents and $10-$20 for non-residents, charged Memorial Day through Labor Day at beach and lake parks. A State Park Pass is available for $50 (residents). Many inland parks are free.
What are the best state parks in New Jersey?
Top parks include Island Beach (pristine barrier island), Wharton (Pine Barrens wilderness), High Point (highest elevation in NJ), Stokes (Appalachian Trail), and Allaire (historic village).
Can I hike the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey?
Yes, the Appalachian Trail passes through NJ for 72 miles, including through High Point, Stokes, and Worthington state parks. The trail offers ridge-top hiking with panoramic views of the Delaware Water Gap.
Are there beaches at New Jersey state parks?
Yes, Island Beach State Park offers 10 miles of pristine, undeveloped barrier island beach on the Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the last remaining undeveloped barrier islands on the East Coast.
Explore More New Jersey State Parks
Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in New Jersey. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in New Jersey guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
D&R Canal SP — 70 miles of historic canal towpath from New Brunswick to Trenton. The canal was built 1830-34 and became the busiest navigation canal in the US. Bald eagles, great blue herons, and wood ducks inhabit the waterway. Largemouth bass fill the canal.
Nearby Attractions
Princeton — along the route. Lambertville — near the southern end. Washington Crossing SP — nearby.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Bulls Island (a short drive away) and Prallsville Mills (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in NJ state parks and forests on leash but are prohibited from buildings, swimming beaches and non-designated campsites.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash 6 feet or less, with the pet under physical control at all times.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited from swimming beaches and swimming waters statewide.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited from cabins/lodging; the Pet Friendly Camping Program designates campsites at 13 areas (e.g. Round Valley all sites, Allaire 1-8, Bass River 1-85, Stokes 101-137) for up to two dogs or cats per permit.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $5.00 per night additional charge for a pet-friendly campsite; no day-use pet fee.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pet Friendly Camping requires current rabies vaccination with written proof at check-in; caged birds/reptiles only allowed inside RVs.
Are dogs allowed at Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park?
Pets are allowed in NJ state parks and forests on leash but are prohibited from buildings, swimming beaches and non-designated campsites. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dep.nj.gov. More: New Jersey state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
