Delaware’s state park system is very well managed, and the parks are always kept in such amazing condition. There are several well-known state parks like Cape Henlopen and Delaware Seashore State Park that draw huge crowds all summer long. The Water Park at Killens Pond fills up on most nice days, and there’s always someone swinging over your head at Lums Pond. But for Delawareans who don’t like crowded trails and people getting just a little too close, these quiet state parks are under-appreciated hidden treasures in the First State. Check out these lesser-known state parks to visit in Delaware:

1. Fox Point State Park
Facebook / Fox Point State Park
Lighthouse Road, Lighthouse Rd, Edgemoor, DE 19809, USA
Facebook / Fox Point State Park
One of the best state parks in Delaware is Fox Point State Park, especially if you have a family. It's a great place for a picnic with younger children. The boats that sail up and down the Delaware River make for great water watching, and the park itself is easily accessible. Because of its location right on the water, it's also one of the best places to fly a kite in Delaware! Plus, from the overlooks, you can see into Philadelphia, or way out over the Delaware Memorial Bridge. Check it out at Hay Road, Wilmington, DE, 19809.

Read our previous coverage to learn more about Fox Point State Park.
2. Holt's Landing State Park
Facebook / Holt's Landing State Park
39415 Inlet Rd, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971, USA
Facebook / Holt's Landing State Park
One of the most unique state parks to visit in Delaware is located in Rehoboth Beach. Holt's Landing is home to the only pier on the Delaware Bay that was made specifically for crabbing! The marsh and upland forest that take over this 200+ acre state park mean you'll see wildlife diversity and run into very few people. The boat launch is about the only area that gets crowded. See for yourself at 39415 Inlet Rd., Rehoboth Beach, DE, 19939.

Learn more about the crabbing pier at Holt's Landing State Park in this post.
3. Port Penn
Facebook / Port Penn

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 This State Park In Delaware Is So Little Known, You'll Practically Have It All To Yourself

This State Park In Delaware Is So Little Known, You'll Practically Have It All To Yourself
5 Port Penn Rd, Middletown, DE 19709, USA
Facebook / Port Penn
Port Penn's interpretive center and nature trails are so interesting and inviting! This is another great place for younger children, but adults will get a lot out of a trip to Port Penn, too! The interpretive center hosts great events all year long. Visit at Port Penn Rd, Middletown, DE, 19709.

Visit the Port Penn webpage for more information.
4. Auburn Heights Preserve
Facebook / Auburn Heights Preserve
3000 Creek Rd, Yorklyn, DE 19736, USA
Facebook / Auburn Heights Preserve
The Auburn Heights Preserve is one of the most historic plots of land in Delaware! Visit to get a tour of the preserve and learn about the massive manufacting family that once owned the land, or take a self-guided tour of the well-preserved property. It's a wonderful place to be if you're looking for things to do outside in Delaware. Tour Auburn Heights Preserve at 3000 Creek Rd, Yorklyn, DE, 19736.

Learn more about Auburn Heights Preserve in our previous post.
5. Fort DuPont State Park
Facebook / Fort DuPont State Park
Wilmington Avenue, Wilmington Ave, Delaware City, DE, USA
Facebook / Fort DuPont
Fort DuPont was an active military base from the Civil War to World War II, and the history of the fort is fanscinating. Soak up as much information as you can when you visit the abandoned buildings and develop a true passion for First State history. The views over the water are amazing and there is so much you'll stumble upon walking through this quiet state park. This is one of the most historic state parks to visit in Delaware. Raid the fort at Wilmington Avenue, Delaware City, DE, 19706.

Visit the webpage to learn more about Fort DuPont.

What do you think of this list of state parks to visit in Delaware? We’re lucky to have such an incredible state park system! If you’re really looking to get away from the crowds on a nice day, check out one of the most isolated spots in Delaware for a day of solitude.

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State Parks To Visit In Delaware

Melissa M. | January 17, 2022

What are some of the best things to do outside in Delaware?

The First State is an ideal place for outdoor recreation. As a coastal state, there are many beaches to visit as well as swimming, fishing, boating, and even whale watching. There are also plenty of state parks to explore whether you want to hike or go birdwatching or camping. 

What are the best hiking trails in Delaware?

At the Edward H. McCabe Preserve in Milton, you’ll find gorgeous trails that are not overrun with foot traffic. You’ll find plenty of wildlife and can take in views of meadows, woods, and the river. It’s an ideal escape from everyday life. Milford Mills Pond Nature Preserve is another place with wonderful views and places to explore. For history buffs, there’s even an old grist mill you can tour. 

What is the best state park in Delaware?

Depending on who you ask, you may get a different answer as to what the best state park in Delaware is. We think that one of the state’s best parks is Killens Pond which offers plenty of activities for everyone. Among the options here is a nature center, options for boating, hiking, fishing, and even a waterpark!

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