Primarily a commercial navigation project, although the canal is also open to recreational boats, and public access is allowable along canal banks. There is a single boat launch facility maintained by the Corps, as well as six fishing piers along the canal banks. There is also a Canal Museum at Chesapeake City which pr
Maybe — confirm before you go.
Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact (301) 885-5622
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for IWW Delaware River to Chesapeake Bay — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at IWW Delaware River to Chesapeake Bay?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at IWW Delaware River to Chesapeake Bay. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at IWW Delaware River to Chesapeake Bay?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Rittenhouse Trail, Rittenhouse Trail / Mason-Dixon Trail, Mason-Dixon Trail, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Depends Are drones allowed?
Sometimes — often allowed away from wilderness and developed or crowded areas, with rules. Check locally before you fly.
Nearby sites
Zeete / CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Supawna Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
NPS Photo National Park Service First State National Historical Park
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Jamie Richie / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Century, Jalen Roy, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.