State Schedules ​Whitewater Release Into Tohickon Creek

UPPER BLACK EDDY, PA — The state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) will release water from Lake Nockamixon into Tohickon Creek on Saturday and Sunday, March 15 and 16, creating prime whitewater conditions for boaters in Bucks County.

The highly anticipated event draws kayakers, canoeists, and rafters from across the Northeast to experience the Class 3 and 4 rapids.

The water release will begin at 4 a.m. with peak whitewater conditions forming several hours later at Ralph Stover State Park. Boaters and spectators can enjoy the best viewing and paddling conditions between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. each day.

Held twice a year — typically on the third weekend in March and the first weekend in November — these controlled releases from the Nockamixon State Park dam provide excellent whitewater boating opportunities. Most participants launch at Ralph Stover State Park near Pipersville and navigate the four-mile stretch to the Delaware River at Point Pleasant.

Safety Reminders

DCNR urges boaters to take proper precautions, as Tohickon Creek’s whitewater features technical Class 3 and 4 rapids that require advanced paddling skills. Boaters should:

• Follow the safety guidelines of the American Whitewater Association.
• Wear appropriate personal flotation devices (PFDs).
• Take precautions to prevent hypothermia.
• Use boats designed for whitewater conditions.

Visitors to the High Rocks Vista Trail System should expect increased foot traffic and are encouraged to:

• Stay on marked trails to reduce environmental impact.
• Be courteous and keep to the right when passing others.
• Split large groups to minimize disturbance.
• Keep dogs on a six-foot leash and clean up after pets.

For more information, contact Nockamixon State Park at 215-529-7300 or Delaware Canal State Park at 610-982-5560. Visit the DCNR website to learn more about Pennsylvania’s 124 state parks and check out DCNR’s Calendar of Events for upcoming activities on public lands.