Susquehanna River – Holtwood

Holtwood is a section of the Susquehanna River below the Holtwood Dam. It is one of our most beautiful paddles with unique geologic formations. There is abundant wildlife with plenty of osprey and eagles.

We paddle upstream along the low current west bank then switch to paddle downstream along the higher current east bank. We will have lunch on one of the islands before we paddle up Muddy Creek or on the Muddy depending on timing and water levels.

The paddle will be about 4 hours. There is no shuttle. There is a porta-potty at the put-in. PA boat launch permits are not necessary.

Directions from Route 1 South [Pennsylvania]:

Take Route 1 south to the Nottingham exit [Route 272]
Turn right on route 272 (5.2 miles) to Wakefield
Turn right to continue to follow route 272
Turn left on PA 372 [7.2 miles]
Cross over the Norman Wood Bridge
Immediately after the bridge [as you hit the blacktop], turn left onto River Road for approx 8/10 mile
You will see a sign for the Exelon Interpretive Center at Lock 15. Bear left into the parking area. If you get to the PA Fish & Game boat launch, you went too far.

Launch GPS Coordinates: 39.80104 -76.30845

Please respond by email if you plan to join us with your cell number and any equipment needs.

General Information:
Recreational: Holtwood is a section of the Susquehana River below the Holtwood Dam. It is one of our most beautiful paddles with unique geologic formations. There is abundant wildlife with plenty of osprey and eagles.

Difficulty & Must Haves:
The water is an impoundment controlled by the Holtwood Dam above and the Conowingo Dam below. During most of the season, there is very little current, but there can be significant currents that build up quickly depending on the rate of release. When the current is low, rocks that lurk just under the water surface are not visible. Paddle carefully. We paddle upstream along the low current west bank then switch to paddle downstream along the high current east bank. We finish with a trip up the Muddy Creek, a great place for a swim.

Nice to Have & Human Interest:
This is one of our favorite swimming spots, so plan to get wet. Lunch is on one of the many sandy beaches.

Additional Notes & Shuttle Info:
Parking is in the Exelon Interpretive Center at Lock 15, NOT the Pennsylvania Fish and Game Boat Launch.