Milford

Tucked beneath the iron span of the bridge that links Milford, New Jersey to its Pennsylvania neighbor across the water, this unofficial swimming hole on the Delaware River is the kind of place that feels like a local secret worth keeping — and equally worth sharing. The river moves with quiet authority here, its current neither lazy nor aggressive, but steady and purposeful, the way a great river should feel in summer. Pull up along the bank, feel the cool gravel shift beneath your feet, and you'll understand immediately why people keep coming back.

The Setting and Landscape

The Delaware River corridor at Milford is a study in unhurried natural beauty. Towering trees line both banks, their canopies arching over the water and filtering afternoon light into shifting patterns on the surface. The historic bridge overhead gives the spot a sense of place — a man-made landmark that somehow deepens, rather than diminishes, the wildness of the scene. Birdsong competes with the soft rush of moving water, and in the shallows you may spot herons standing stock-still, hunting with the patience of old monks. In autumn, the hillsides ignite in amber and crimson, reflecting off the river in a display that stops you mid-stroke. In late spring, blooming flora perfumes the air along the short walk down to the water's edge.

Swimming in the Delaware

The Delaware River here offers the kind of swimming that reconnects you with something essential. The water runs clear and refreshingly cold even on the hottest July afternoons, fed by the long river's shaded upper reaches. You'll find a mix of shallow entry points ideal for wading children and deeper channels where confident swimmers can stroke out into the current and feel the river's gentle pull. The rocky bottom gives way to sandy pockets in places, and the overall atmosphere is unhurried — this is a spot for floating on your back and watching clouds drift, not for racing or showing off. Because this is an unofficial, unsanctioned swimming area, there are no lifeguards on duty, and swimmers should assess conditions carefully before entering, particularly after periods of heavy rain when water levels and currents can shift significantly.

Plan Your Visit

Access is refreshingly straightforward — well-maintained roads bring you directly to the area, and a short walk under the bridge delivers you to the swimming hole with minimal effort, making it genuinely suitable for families and casual visitors alike. There is no admission fee for this natural spot. Facilities are not confirmed on-site, so come prepared: bring water, snacks, and everything you need for an independent afternoon outdoors. If you're looking to extend your adventure, the charming river town of Milford, NJ sits just steps away, and Easton, Pennsylvania — a city with a thriving arts scene, great dining, and the National Canal Museum — is a short drive across the river. Campers should note that while there is no camping at this site, Bulls Island State Park to the south offers camping along the Delaware and serves as an excellent base for a multi-day river itinerary. Come for a summer afternoon; you may find yourself planning to return every season.

Directions to Milford Swimming Hole (Milford, NJ): Starting Point: Easton, PA Begin your journey in Easton, Pennsylvania. Head east on Interstate 78 (I-78). Exit 7: Bloomsbury Continue on I-78 until you reach Exit 7 for Bloomsbury, New Jersey. Take this exit and merge onto Route 173. Route 173 to Bloomsbury Follow Route 173 into the town of Bloomsbury. Once in Bloomsbury, look for signs directing you to Route 639. Route 639 South Turn onto Route 639 South and continue driving toward Warren Glen. This road will take you through scenic areas and small towns. Route 519 South to Milford After passing through Warren Glen, merge onto Route 519 South. Stay on Route 519 as it leads you directly into Milford, NJ. Entering Milford Once in Milford, follow Route 519 until you approach the bridge over the Delaware River that connects Milford, NJ, to Pennsylvania. If you are traveling southbound on Route 519, turn right onto the main street of Milford, which leads toward the bridge. Finding the Swimming Hole Before crossing the bridge, look for a path underneath it. This path provides access to the swimming hole. Park in the designated areas nearby, ensuring your vehicle is not obstructing traffic or private property. Parking and Access Parking is typically available in Milford near the bridge or along the main street. Be mindful of any posted parking restrictions. Once parked, walk toward the bridge and locate the path underneath to access the swimming hole. Enjoy your visit to the Milford swimming hole, and remember to respect the natural environment and leave no trace!

Access is refreshingly straightforward — well-maintained roads bring you directly to the area, and a short walk under the bridge delivers you to the swimming hole with minimal effort, making it genuinely suitable for families and casual visitors alike. There is no admission fee for this natural spot. Facilities are not confirmed on-site, so come prepared: bring water, snacks, and everything you need for an independent afternoon outdoors. If you're looking to extend your adventure, the charming river town of Milford, NJ sits just steps away, and Easton, Pennsylvania — a city with a thriving arts scene, great dining, and the National Canal Museum — is a short drive across the river. Campers should note that while there is no camping at this site, Bulls Island State Park to the south offers camping along the Delaware and serves as an excellent base for a multi-day river itinerary. Come for a summer afternoon; you may find yourself planning to return every season.

Access is via an unofficial path under the Milford bridge. Parking is typically found on nearby streets; always observe posted restrictions. This is not a designated public recreation area—swim at your own risk and respect private property boundaries.

Milford's swimming hole reflects the enduring importance of the Delaware River to local communities, from indigenous peoples to colonial settlers.

Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect local wildlife and preserve the natural beauty of the area.