If you are looking for an outdoor adventure, Delaware is full of hidden gems perfect for outdoor recreation and nature-based activities. Delaware state parks, nature preserves, campgrounds, beaches and kayaking routes make the state a beautiful destination for your next trip. Here’s how to plan your trip and what spots to add to your nature-filled itinerary.
Planning Your Delaware Adventure
The state is full of so many beautiful locations that you will never run out of options. To help you narrow down your perfect itinerary, Visit Central Delaware has everything you will need, from where to go to where to stay and plans for everything in between.
Visit Central Delaware offers detailed information for each premier destination, with maps, local activities and dining recommendations. You can download or print the official comprehensive Delaware visitor’s guide to plan your stay or reference for quick ideas. The site even publishes a newsletter and blog posts with updates and focused posts featuring whatever you may be looking for.
Visit Central Delaware is the perfect planning resource for your next adventure. As a hub in the middle of the state, Central Delaware is home to the capital city of Dover, the best state parks in Delaware for hiking and beaches that stretch along Delaware Bay. Keep an eye out for these top-rated outdoor recreation areas in Delaware.
1. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
Delaware is home to a diverse natural landscape, featuring marshes, beaches and forests. Whether you are into camping, hiking, birdwatching or enjoying one of the best kayaking spots in Delaware, the parks are beautiful. The Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is a stretch of marshland and protected wildlife located along Delaware Bay. With incredible views, interesting wildlife and long walking stretches, the nature preserve is an educational and peaceful environment for slower outdoor recreation.
The refuge protects an essential landscape of tidal wetlands and salt marshes, featuring cordgrass meadows and some freshwater creeks. Its unique natural composition provides a crucial designated area for migratory birds, in particular, and is home to a diverse range of species.
The protected area spans 16,251 acres, offering a 12-mile-long driving path and multiple walking routes. With a variety of educational postings and interactive displays, the refuge is a great opportunity to learn about the wildlife and engage with nature up close. Bombay Hook is an accessible option ideal for all ages to engage in outdoor recreational activities.
2. Killens Pond State Park
Located south of Dover and just outside Felton, this 66-acre pond is ideal for a variety of outdoor activities. Killens Pond sits at the center of the park, where visitors can rent paddleboats, canoes or kayaks for a beautiful scenic boating experience. Around the lake, the park features hiking and biking trails, campgrounds and even a waterpark.
For an educational indoor experience, check out the nature center to learn about the area’s natural habitats with interactive and kid-friendly activities. As one of the best camping spots in Delaware, the campgrounds on-site are available year-round with tent locations, cabins and plenty of amenities to ensure the safety and comfort of your experience.
Younger guests can enjoy the water park during the summer months and explore the playgrounds year-round, while parents can fish from the dock or take advantage of the multiple physical activities. There are also multiple dining options, including quick concession stand bites and more upscale restaurants. There is no shortage of opportunities for adventure at Killens Pond State Park.
3. Bowers Beach
A visit to Delaware would not be complete without appreciating the coast. Enjoy some of the best outdoor recreation areas in Central Delaware by visiting the beaches. Bowers Beach is considered Delaware’s “best kept secret” in the small area of Kent County. Residents value keeping the beach clean and well-preserved to ensure it remains one of the top destinations on the coast.
Visit the Bowers Beach Maritime Museum to explore Bowers artifacts and town history. The town has three small parks, and the beach is surrounded by the St. Jones and Murderkill Rivers, ensuring a wealth of outdoor recreational activities.
4. Slaughter Beach
Sussex County is home to the hidden gem of Slaughter Beach. The quiet seclusion of the beach inspires visitors to appreciate its peaceful nature. Each season brings a unique array of wildlife to the beach, including horseshoe crabs and shorebirds from May to early June, which is their mating season.
The community prioritizes keeping the area clean and protecting the wildlife all year round, thanks to a historical society of volunteers dedicated to preserving the area.
5. DuPont Nature Center
The DuPont Nature Center is an educational aquatic facility at the Mispillion Harbor Reserve. Located on the water, the spot is where the Mispillion River and Cedar Creek meet before joining the Delaware Bay. Because of its unique location, visitors can see more than 130 species of birds, aquatic life and mammals.
DuPont Nature Center offers educational classes and interactive activities, including field excursions and lectures for learners of all ages. The center itself is an indoor facility located along an observation deck. The facility closes seasonally, but the deck remains open year-round, offering incredible views and opportunities for nature observation.
Other Outdoor Excursions
Numerous parks, beaches and natural trails make Delaware a perfect place to immerse yourself in the outdoors, but you don’t have to leave civilization completely behind to enjoy outdoor experiences in the state. Consider these alternative options for outdoor recreation.
Golfing Spots
Central Delaware offers excellent golfing locations, with Jonathan’s Landing Golf Course being a standout option. This public, 18-hole championship golf course, located just south of Dover, offers four sets of tees to accommodate golfers of all skill levels. For those looking to practice, Jonathan’s Landing provides a full driving range, a pitching and chipping green, and a 12,000-square-foot short game area. Eagle Creek is another great golfing spot in the area, located near Dover Air Force Base.
Flea Markets
Check out Spence’s Bazaar in Dover for a unique shopping experience. At around 86 years old, it’s been a mainstay in the community for decades. Open on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday mornings to early afternoon, the market features local produce, baked goods and authentic Amish goods.
Farm Stores
Perfect for pumpkin patches and tree picking, Fifer’s Farm Store and Kitchen is a local source for fresh produce and fun family experiences. The country store is open from April to December every year and highlights seasonal, homegrown produce. Fifer’s is a great place to appreciate the outdoors and support local businesses.
Fishing Charter Boats
For an organized and bountiful fishing experience, consider booking a trip with Captain’s Lady Charter. The private tour can guide you to the best and most exclusive fishing spots, allowing you to make the most of your trip. Day charters start at 7 a.m. and afternoon charters start at 3 p.m.
The company also hosts charity tournaments and cruises to make the trip extra special. Those who don’t fish can still enjoy a boat tour by booking a private party.
Begin Your Delaware Adventure
Delaware has no shortage of outdoor activities. With Visit Central Delaware, you can explore destinations and activities perfect for your ideal trip and even plan an itinerary. Whether you want to travel across the state from coast to coast or explore a beautiful spot like Killens Pond, Visit Central Delaware can help you maximize your time with the top-rated outdoor recreation areas in Delaware. Your perfect adventure awaits.
