Systems, methods, and computer readable media for maintaining packet data protocol (PDP) context while performing data offload are disclosed. According to one aspect, a method for maintaining PDP context while performing data offload includes detecting a data offload condition wherein a UE for which a first network node is maintaining a PDP context is sending or receiving data using a data path that does not include the first network node. While the data offload condition exists, packets are sent from a source other than the UE to the first network node so as to cause the first network node to maintain the PDP context for the UE. In one embodiment, a node interposed between the UE and the first network node periodically sends dummy packets or heart beat packets to the first network node on behalf of the UE, which may include packets that appear to come from the UE.