Landers River Trips Provides Unforgettable Dates

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Lander’s River Trips Can Take Couples on Unforgettable River Dates

Amber Brooks

Written by: Amber Brooks

Amber Brooks

Amber Brooks is the Editor-in-Chief at DatingAdvice.com. When she was growing up, her family teased her for being "boy crazy," but she preferred to think of herself as a budding dating and relationship expert. As an English major at the University of Florida, Amber honed her communication skills to write clearly, knowledgeably, and passionately about a variety of subjects. Now with over 1,800 lifestyle articles to her name, Amber brings her tireless wit and relatable experiences to DatingAdvice.com. She has been quoted as a dating expert by The Washington Times, Cosmopolitan, The New York Post, Bustle, Salon, Well+Good, and AskMen.

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Edited by: Lillian Castro

Lillian Castro

Lillian Guevara-Castro brings more than 30 years of journalism experience to ensure DatingAdvice articles have been edited for overall clarity, accuracy, and reader engagement. She has worked at The Atlanta Journal and Constitution, The Gwinnett Daily News, and The Gainesville Sun covering lifestyle topics.

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The Short Version: Since 1955, Lander’s River Trips has given people the opportunity to relax on the water and take in the natural beauty of the Catskills. The campground’s amenities and rental options can facilitate memorable date activities geared toward outdoorsy couples. Whether you’re interested in tubing, rafting, canoeing, or kayaking, Lander’s River Trips can outfit you and your companion(s) with everything you need to have a fun time on the Delaware River.

Bob Lander was a Boy Scout when he first visited the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River and got a taste for outdoor adventure. Throughout his adolescence, the Brooklyn boy traveled upstate to play and work in the Catskills. As an adult, he decided to make his livelihood by the river.

In 1955, Bob and his wife Joan used their savings to buy the Ten Mile River Motel and renovate it into a rustic lodge with a swimming pool and access to the Delaware River. Next thing, Bob started renting 10 canoes to guests. Within a few years, he was renting kayaks and rafts as well.

Nearly 30 years later, Bob renamed his business Lander’s River Trips and passed the torch on to his son Rick Lander, who still runs the campground alongside his wife, Lisa, and four children.

Lander’s River Trips has been facilitating outdoor adventures for generations, and it offers a rowdy yet friendly backdrop for memorable vacations with loved ones. The team proudly maintains the family spirit and traditions that have made it one the most popular Delaware River outfitters in the Catskills.

Photo of Lander's River Trips

Lander’s River Trips has an outdoor property stretching for 70 miles along the Delaware River.

Today, Lander’s River Trips has expanded to include eight riverside locations and three riverside campgrounds. It is open from April to October (its last weekend is traditionally Columbus Day weekend), and over 100 employees oversee the camping and rental services.

Daters can go canoeing, kayaking, rafting, or camping at this premier destination. The staff recommends booking a midweek stay to avoid the crowds and have a more intimate experience in nature.

“This is the perfect time to slow down and reconnect while you are adventuring,” the Lander’s River Trips team said. “Put your cellphone away and take in the sights. You can even spot Bald Eagles along on your adventure, as we are the Eagle Capital of New York.”

A Family-Run Business Makes Waves in New York

Lander’s River Trips has won over generations of outdoor adventurers with its variety of services. Every season, the campground becomes packed with visitors hoping to dive into a fun experience and chill out with friends, family members, or maybe a significant other.

Couples can book a river trip to make their next dating excursion or vacation something they’ll always remember.

“We offer calm and relaxing trips that reset and refresh our guest’s perspective on the world,” the team said. “And we have outdoor adventures that are challenging and allow our guests to go outside of their comfort zone to experience something new.”

Lander’s River Trips maintains a dog-friendly campground. Dog owners just have to provide proof of up-to-date vaccinations and keep the dog(s) on leash when in public places. Many couples bring their fur babies along to the campsite and take them onto the water to share in the adventure.

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, Lander’s River Trips has implemented some new cleaning and safety protocols to ensure guests can relax and unwind while maintaining proper social distance. “We are committed to protecting each and every guest, above and beyond the CDC recommendations,” the team said.

Photo from Lander's River Trips

By getting on the water, couples can take their dates to new terrain.

Lander’s River Trips has created a multifaceted space that is family-friendly, dog-friendly, and alcohol-friendly. Visitors range from daytrippers and campers to serious kayakers and outdoor buffs. They may range in interest, but everyone who visits shares a thirst for adventure and excitement.

Local and experienced outdoorsmen (and women) staff Lander’s River Trips every summer. Many team members return year after year because they enjoy their work and care about maintaining the welcoming, family feel that has made the campground a beloved destination in Upstate New York.

Now entering its 66th season, Lander’s River Trips welcomes newcomers as well as seasoned regulars and aims to provide a safe and friendly experience for everyone. “One of the things that we are most proud of is our diverse clientele that come to stay and play with us,” the team said.

Visitors Create Lasting Memories on the Delaware River

Lander’s River Trips is the kind of place where people can let go of their everyday stresses and enjoy the scenery. The family-owned and operated business has earned a great reputation among outdoor adventurers, and a lot of work behind the scenes goes into maintaining the campground’s friendly and fun-loving atmosphere.

From the campground managers to the raft instructors, the team is committed to ensuring people can make the most of their experience on the water. Many people have provided glowing testimonials saying that Lander’s River Trips has become their go-to choice for weekend getaways or summer vacations.

“We have been coming here since 2000 and will continue for many more years,” said Austina Rolfe-Connors in a Facebook review. “Thank you for another memorable weekend. We love it and you.”

“We just completed our 39th annual canoe trip down the Delaware River and would never go with anyone but Lander’s River Trips,” said Geoff C. “The staff do their best to let you have fun while keeping everyone safe.”

Steve T. said Lander’s group sites can feel like one big party with people letting loose and going with the flow all day long. “Rafting right from the campground is super convenient,” he said in his review. “Very friendly staff makes you feel welcome and will go above and beyond to make sure your stay is great.”

Photo of a couple canoeing

Some people have been using Lander’s campground and rentals for over 40 years.

Not even a pandemic could stop Joseph P. from visiting his favorite haunt on the Delaware River in July 2020. “We have been coming there every year in July for about 10 years now,” he said. “The group we go with keeps growing due to the great times we have. I recommend it to everyone.”

“My family made some of our best memories,” said Kelli Spencer about her trip. “Absolutely perfect adventures every time! Can’t wait to do it again!”

Over the years, the campground has been the backdrop for countless family vacations, anniversary trips, friendly hangouts, and reunions. Lander’s River Trips could set the pace for a low-key tubing date where conversation flows as idly as the river, or it could deliver excitement with its rafting and canoeing experiences. It’s up to you to choose which course feels comfortable to you.

Lander’s River Trips Can Whet Your Appetite for Adventure

Bob Lander first came to the Catskills as a bright-eyed Boy Scout, and he went on to establish a campground where people of all stripes could come together. Today, his descendents continue his legacy by running Lander’s River Trips with integrity and encouraging visitors to join their ever-growing family of nature lovers.

Lander’s River Trips can offer couples a place where they can reconnect over a campfire, a tubing trip, or a rafting adventure. It doesn’t matter if you’re college students on summer break or retirees looking for a romantic getaway, the campground provides an array of activities and plenty of space to explore new settings just around the riverbend.

“The Delaware River is a protected treasure, flowing through the foothills of the Catskill and Pocono Mountains,” said Rick Lander. “Whether you’re canoeing, rafting, kayaking, or camping on the Delaware, you’ll enjoy the serenity of this beautiful area.”

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