Toms Creek Picnic Area in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Toms Creek Picnic Area is located in the central section of Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in Pennsylvania. If using Google Maps, search TOMS CREEK TRAILHEAD for directions. The facility is open year-round from dawn to dusk. There is no fee to park or use the picnic area.

This is a small picnic area with just five tables, and as with all picnic areas in the park, there are no grills. However, you can bring your own charcoal or gas grill—no ground fires are allowed. For those using charcoal, there are hot coal bins on the premises. Please dump your coals in one of these and not on the ground. Furthermore, no glass or alcohol is permitted at the picnic area.

Hot coal bin and garbage cans at Toms Creek Picnic Area in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

All tables are taken on a first come, first served basis, so Toms Creek is not an ideal place to hold a group picnic. However, you are welcome to do so. Groups of 30 or more people need a permit to gather anywhere within the park, but the permit does not mean your group has first dibs on the picnic tables. Somebody still has to be there first thing in the morning to stake a claim. The better option is to hold your outing at the Milford Beach Picnic Area, which can be reserved. For information about permits, call the special use permit coordinator for Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area at (570) 426-2440.

There is a fancy outhouse at Toms Creek. This is what Jed Clampett would call a portable toilet in a permanent building. There are no modern facilities or running water.

Fancy outhouse at Toms Creek Picnic Area in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

After enjoying your picnic, you can burn some calories by hiking the Toms Creek Trail, which starts at the back of the picnic area.

Toms Creek Trail in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Parking lot at Toms Creek Picnic Area in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

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