Depending on the time of year, Delaware's most popular state parks can swell with visitors and tourists looking to explore the most scenic parts of the First State. When you want to enjoy the great outdoors without having to battle the big crowds at Cape Henlopen or Killens Pond, here are seven lesser-known state parks to visit in Delaware to enjoy a day of peace and quiet.

1. Port Penn State Park Interpretive Center

The Interpretive Center at Port Penn is one of the coolest spots in the state! There's always something going on here no matter what time of year and the trails are great for kids and adults alike. It's one of the best parks in Delaware. Learn more about Port Penn State Park Interpretive Center on the Delaware State Parks website.

2. Fox Point State Park

This beautifully rehabilitated former hazardous waste site in New Castle County offers some of the most spectacular views in the state. Bring the whole family to enjoy activities like horseshoes and bird spotting as well as one of the best hiking trails in the state. Read our previous coverage on Fox Point State Park's waterfront trail to learn more.

3. Holts Landing State Park

Holts Landing has the only pier in the state that was built just for crabbing. You can also fish from the pier, and elsewhere in the park are some of the greatest biking trails and the best hiking trails in Delaware. If you're feeling adventurous, bring your kayak and explore the Assawoman Canal. Read our previous coverage to learn more about crabbing at Holts Landing State Park.

4. Auburn Heights Preserve

The Auburn Heights Preserve and Marshall Steam Museum may be the most interesting place in the Delaware State Park system! Located in Yorklyn, this is the only state park that has trails designated as "steam car" paths. Read more about this unique estate managed by DE State Parks. If you're looking for fascinating state parks to visit in Delaware, put Auburn Heights Preserve at the top of your list.

5. Alapocas Run State Park

Alapocas Run State Park is a super cool park in Wilmington with plenty of hiking trails in Delaware. Here is where you'll find the famous Blue Rocks and stunning views of the Brandywine River. Read our previous article to learn more about hiking at Alapocas Run State Park.

6. Bellevue State Park

Bellevue State Park is a gorgeous Delaware State Park where you can enjoy hiking, nature walks, and in the summertime, plenty of outdoor concerts! It's also a spectacular place to picnic in the warmer months. Read this post to learn more about picnicking at Bellevue State Park.

7. White Clay Creek State Park

Newark's own White Clay Creek is an oasis away from the busy city life. This stunning park features trails through meadows and creeks, past farmsteads, and along the Mason-Dixon boundary line. It's truly one of the best state parks in Delaware. See what makes this one of Delaware's top hiking destinations.

These seven state parks to visit in Delaware have so much to offer visitors. Throughout the summer, you can catch concerts, performances, festivals, and more at our lovely state parks, but they can also be enjoyed year-round. Trail maps, program guides, and more information can be found online here: Delaware State Parks.