🌤 Weather at Killens Pond State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35–74 °F | 64–87 °F | 39–79 °F | 28–49 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Dover, 11 mi away, elevation 30 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
If you are looking for somewhere to spend some quality and fun times with the family in nature, then you should head to Killens Pond State Park.
Located in the town of Felton, it covers more than 1,000 acres and offers plenty of recreational activities for those who enjoy the outdoors.
Centered around a large freshwater pond which has sandy beaches, the park is a popular destination for fishing, kayaking and paddleboarding. It is also notable for having an excellent water park which the kids especially love, as well as several miles of hiking and biking trails that showcase the outstanding beauty of its landscape.
In addition, this delaware state park also has an extensive nature center, which features exhibits on the area’s natural history, as well as live animals and interactive displays. It also provides several camping options, from primitive tent sites to RV hookups and cabins, which make it a great spot for a weekend getaway or family vacation.
Activities
Killens Pond State Park is a wonderful public recreational space that affords visitors several ways to rest, relax and enjoy its beautiful landscape.
Outlined below is a short summary of some of the main things to see and do there.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding at Killens Pond State Park
One of the most prominent activities at the park is kayaking and paddleboarding. This takes place on the 66-acre freshwater Killens Pond which is its centerpiece.
If they didn’t bring them, visitors can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes from the park’s nature center and explore the pond. They can also choose to venture into several scenic waterways, including Killens Pond Creek, which winds through the park’s wooded areas.
For those interested in learning more about the ecology and wildlife of the area, the park also offers a variety of educational programs and guided tours.
Visitors can even take part in a nighttime paddle, where they can observe the pond’s nocturnal creatures and stargaze under the dark skies.
Water Park at Killens Pond State Park
Another popular attraction is the Killens Pond Water Park. Family-friendly, it has a large swimming pool that possesses multiple water features like water cannons, fountains, and a splash pad. The park also has two exciting water slides that offer an exhilarating ride for thrill-seekers.
In addition to the pool and water slides, there is also a lazy river where visitors can float along on tubes and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding area. There is even a kiddie area with a mini slide, shallow pool, and other water features for younger children.
Open during the summer months, the water park is a particularly good way to cool off on hot days.
Fishing at Killens Pond State Park
Fishing is another well practiced activity at the park as many anglers come here to cast a line in its peaceful and scenic location.
You can choose to do this from a fishing pier, by the shoreline or from a rowboat or other watercraft. Some of the species you can catch include largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, carp, and catfish.
Throughout the year the park also hosts several fishing tournaments which offer a great opportunity for families to enjoy a day of fishing and friendly competition.
Hiking and Biking Trails at Killens Pond State Park
Killens Pond State Park is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts as it offers over 17 miles of scenic trails to explore.
These wind through lush forests, open meadows, and around the beautiful Killens Pond, providing visitors with an excellent opportunity to observe the park’s diverse ecosystems, enjoy the fresh air, and check out the local wildlife.
One recommended trail is the Pondside Trail, which takes hikers and bikers around the entire perimeter of Killens Pond. This trail offers stunning views of the water and is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color.
Another notable one to attempt is the Burton Trail, which meanders through the park’s wooded areas and over picturesque streams. This trail is popular with mountain bikers as it offers a more challenging ride.
Nature Center at Killens Pond State Park
The nature center at Killens Pond State Park is a terrific place to learn about the wildlife and natural environment of the area.
The center features exhibits and displays about the park’s diverse habitats, including wetlands, forests, and meadows. There are also interactive exhibits and educational programs for visitors of all ages, such as guided nature walks and workshops on topics like birding and insect identification.
The center is staffed by knowledgeable naturalists who can answer questions and provide insights about the local ecosystem.
Pets
At Killens Pond State Park, dogs are allowed only in Cabins 9 and 10, for $25 per dog per night with a maximum of two dogs, and pets are not allowed at the Killens Pond Water Park (Killens Pond park page). The park is also one of the places with a designated off-leash area.
Delaware State Parks rules apply: your pet must be licensed and you need proof of its rabies vaccination. Keep it on a leash no longer than 6 feet and under your control, except in designated off-leash areas, clean up after it, and never leave it unattended, not even in your vehicle or camper. Park buildings, yurts, bird nesting areas, rental boats and kayaks, and all cabins and cottages except the designated dog-friendly ones are closed to pets year-round (Delaware State Parks pet rules, as of October 2026).
Camping
The campground at Killens Pond State Park is a popular destination for families, groups, and solo travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature.
Overall, it offers a total of 59 campsites, including 55 sites with electrical and water hookups and four primitive sites. These campsites are well-maintained and can house tents, RVs, and trailers. Each campsite has a fire ring and picnic table, while some sites also come with a grill.
In addition to these campsites there are also several cabins available for rent. They are well furnished and present guests with some of the comforts of home.
To support the accommodation, the campground offers a variety of amenities, including a camp store, laundry facilities, modern restrooms and showers, and a dumping station.
There is also a playground, disc golfing and a basketball court for children and adults to enjoy.
Park Location
Killens Pond State Park
Killens Pond Road
Felton, DE 19943
Phone: (302) 284-4526
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Killens Pond State Park:
⚠️ 2025 Policy Update: Primary occupant must show ID at check-in. 18-day change freeze on new reservations.
Explore More Delaware State Parks
Killens Pond State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Delaware. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Delaware guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Insider Tips
Delaware’s water park: Killens Pond features a modern water park with slides, splash areas, and a lazy river — the best in Delaware. Pro tip: The 66-acre mill pond offers quiet kayaking. Nature center: Excellent nature programs and live animal exhibits year-round.
Best Time to Visit
Summer: Water park season. Spring: Pond fishing. Fall: Nature programs. Winter: Nature center programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Killens Pond have a water park?
Yes. Killens Pond Water Park features slides, a lazy river, and splash areas — open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Separate admission is required beyond the park entrance fee. It’s the largest and most popular water park in the Delaware state park system.
Does Killens Pond have a water park?
Yes! Delaware’s only state park water park with slides, lazy river, and splash pad. Open June–Labor Day.
Nearby parks: If you have extra time, John Dickinson Plantation is a short drive away, and First State Heritage Park is a short drive away.
⛺ Camping at Killens Pond State Park: Campgrounds & Cabins
| Campsites | 76 sites — 59 sites with electric and water hookups accommodate both tents and RVs; a separate primitive walk-in loop offers 17 tent-only sites. Water and Electric Sites rates (Winter/Spring-Fall/Summer): weekends resident $28/$32/$38, non-resident $35/$40/$48; weekdays resident $23/$27/$33, non-resident $29/$34/$42. |
|---|---|
| Cabins & Lodging | 11 wood-framed family cabins sleep four each, with efficiency kitchen, eating area, bedroom, bathroom with shower, A/C and heat, plus a picnic table, grill and porch outside. The eleventh unit, the Pond View Cottage, has the same layout with a pond view. Dogs are only allowed in Cabins 9 and 10. Cabin rates: weekends resident $73/$81/$89, non-resident $92/$102/$112; weekdays resident $62/$70/$84, non-resident $78/$88/$105. Pond View Cottage rates: weekends resident $93/$103/$112, non-resident $117/$129/$140; weekdays resident $79/$89/$105, non-resident $99/$112/$132. |
| Pets | Pets are permitted in the campground, attended at all times; not allowed in cabins except Cabins 9 and 10. Pets are not allowed at the adjoining Killens Pond Waterpark. |
| Reservations | Reserve online 24/7 at destateparks.com (credit card only) or by phone at 1-877-98-PARKS (1-877-987-2757) or the park office at (302) 284-4526. Reservations open up to 1 year in advance. Cancellation: $10 fee for campsites if cancelled 31+ days before arrival (one night's fee within 30 days); $35 fee for cabin cancellations. |
| Special sites | Year-round wooded campground adjoining the Killens Pond Waterpark and Nature Center. |
| Season notes | Campground and cabins are open year-round. |
Camping questions about Killens Pond State Park
Can you camp at Killens Pond State Park?
Yes. Killens Pond State Park has 76 campsites. 59 sites with electric and water hookups accommodate both tents and RVs; a separate primitive walk-in loop offers 17 tent-only sites. Water and Electric Sites rates (Winter/Spring-Fall/Summer): weekends resident $28/$32/$38, non-resident $35/$40/$48; weekdays resident $23/$27/$33, non-resident $29/$34/$42.
How do you reserve a campsite at Killens Pond State Park?
Reserve online 24/7 at destateparks.com (credit card only) or by phone at 1-877-98-PARKS (1-877-987-2757) or the park office at (302) 284-4526. Reservations open up to 1 year in advance. Cancellation: $10 fee for campsites if cancelled 31+ days before arrival (one night's fee within 30 days); $35 fee for cabin cancellations.
Are there cabins at Killens Pond State Park?
11 wood-framed family cabins sleep four each, with efficiency kitchen, eating area, bedroom, bathroom with shower, A/C and heat, plus a picnic table, grill and porch outside. The eleventh unit, the Pond View Cottage, has the same layout with a pond view. Dogs are only allowed in Cabins 9 and 10. Cabin rates: weekends resident $73/$81/$89, non-resident $92/$102/$112; weekdays resident $62/$70/$84, non-resident $78/$88/$105. Pond View Cottage rates: weekends resident $93/$103/$112, non-resident $117/$129/$140; weekdays resident $79/$89/$105, non-resident $99/$112/$132.
Are pets allowed at the Killens Pond State Park campground?
Pets are permitted in the campground, attended at all times; not allowed in cabins except Cabins 9 and 10. Pets are not allowed at the adjoining Killens Pond Waterpark.
Source: destateparks.com (verified July 2026). Details change seasonally — confirm when booking.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Killens Pond State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Delaware State Parks are pet-friendly: leashed pets are welcome in most park areas, but all pets must be licensed with proof of rabies vaccination, and picnic areas, park buildings and yurts are closed to pets.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 feet, except in designated off-leash areas.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- State law prohibits pets from all swimming and sunbathing beaches May 1 - September 30; Beach Plum Island bans pets year-round.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Only dogs are allowed, and only in designated dog-friendly units (e.g. cabins at Killens Pond, Trap Pond, Cape Henlopen, cottages at Delaware Seashore); $25 per night pet fee, 2-dog maximum.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use pet fee; $25 per night pet fee for dog-friendly cabins/cottages (max 2 dogs).
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Fort Delaware State Park and Killens Pond Water Park are closed to pets; pets allowed in surf-fishing vehicle areas on a 6-foot leash.
Are dogs allowed at Killens Pond State Park?
Delaware State Parks are pet-friendly: leashed pets are welcome in most park areas, but all pets must be licensed with proof of rabies vaccination, and picnic areas, park buildings and yurts are closed to pets. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via destateparks.com. More: Delaware state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Killens Pond State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
