Bellevue State Park
Located just a 10-minute drive from downtown Wilmington, Bellevue State Park is a stunning natural oasis in the heart of Delaware.
A popular place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, this 328-acre park offers recreational activities and natural beauty in abundance, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
Bellevue State Park was originally a grand estate dating back to the 1800s, which was owned by William du Pont Jr.
Today, visitors can still see remnants of the estate, including its magnificent mansion and beautiful formal gardens.
This delaware state park also features extensive hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a fishing pond. It is particularly beautiful in the spring and summer months, when visitors can enjoy blooming flowers and warm weather.
Whether you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of Delaware, go on a leisurely picnic with family and friends, or simply relax in a tranquil setting, Bellevue State Park is a terrific destination in which to do so.
Activities
While at Bellevue State Park, guests can partake in a wide selection of leisurely outdoor pursuits.
Presented below is a brief summary of some of the major recreational activities you can do during the time you have there.
The estate at Bellevue State Park
The estate at Bellevue State Park is a fascinating piece of Delaware’s history.
Visitors can explore the 328-acre property and its many features, including the mansion, formal gardens, and carriage house.
The mansion, itself is a beautiful example of Italianate architecture and features a grand entrance hall, parlor, dining room, and many other rooms filled with exquisite artwork and furnishings.
Surrounding it are meticulously landscaped formal gardens which include a rose garden, reflecting pool, and numerous sculptures. Meanwhile, the carriage house, which now serves as the park’s visitor center, offers information about the history of the estate and its transformation into a public park.
Visitors to Bellevue State Park can enjoy guided tours of the mansion, take a stroll through the gardens, or simply relax on the expansive grounds.
The estate also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, art shows, and seasonal festivals.
Fishing at Bellevue State Park
Bellevue State Park is a great spot for fishing enthusiasts, so be sure to bring your equipment with you.
Overall, it features two fishing ponds that are stocked with a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and trout.
Fishing is allowed from the banks or from a boat with a valid Delaware fishing license. The ponds are easily accessible, and there are plenty of picnic tables and benches to enjoy a relaxing day by the water.
In addition to the ponds, the park also offers access to the Delaware River. Visitors can fish for striped bass, white perch, and other species from the riverbank or by boat. Kayaks and canoes are available to rent from the park office for a small fee.
It’s worth noting that fishing at Bellevue State Park is catch-and-release only, and there are strict regulations in place to protect the fish populations.
Anglers are encouraged to follow the rules and regulations and to practice proper catch-and-release techniques to ensure the sustainability of the fishery for future generations.
Hiking and biking at Bellevue State Park
For those into hiking and biking, Bellevue State Park offers a variety of trails for visitors to explore.
The park features more than 10 miles of trails that wind their way through beautiful meadows, forests, and along the banks of the Delaware River. There are trails suitable for all levels of skill and fitness, including easy paved paths which are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and more challenging terrain for experienced hikers and bikers.
The Northern Delaware Greenway Trail is one of the park’s most popular multi-use trails. Spanning over 10 miles, it connects several state parks in the area, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape in the process.
For those looking to get their heart rate up, the Rocky Run Trail presents a rugged terrain and scenic views of the park’s woodlands. The trail is a little over a mile long and is suitable for experienced hikers.
When hiking or biking you should be mindful to wear the proper equipment. It is also worth taking plenty of water with you as well.
Pets
Guests are welcome to bring their pets with them to Bellevue State Park. However, there are certain rules and regulations that must be followed to ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors.
One of them states that pets must be well behaved and restrained on a leash throughout their stay. Another is that pets are not allowed in certain areas of the park, including playgrounds, pavilions, and swimming areas.
For a complete overview of the park’s pet policy it is worth contacting the main office.
Camping
Unfortunately, Bellevue State Park does not have any campgrounds on its premises, but there are several nearby options for visitors who wish to spend the night in the area.
One of the closest campgrounds to it is Lums Pond State Park, which is about 13 miles south of Bellevue. This park features 68 campsites with water and electric hookups, as well as several primitive sites for those who prefer a more rustic experience.
Other nearby campgrounds include Killens Pond State Park and Delaware Seashore State Park, which are about 30 and 60 miles away from it respectively.
Each of these campgrounds offers a range of amenities and activities for visitors, including hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and water-based activities such as swimming and boating.
Some of them even offer recreational facilities such as basketball courts and playgrounds, making them ideal for families with children.
Park Location
Bellevue State Park 800 Carr Road Wilmington, DE 19809 Phone: 302.761.6963
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Bellevue State Park:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit Delaware state parks?
Delaware state parks charge a daily vehicle fee ($5 residents, $10 non-residents) from March through November. An annual pass is $40 for residents and $80 for non-residents.
What are the best state parks in Delaware?
Top parks include Cape Henlopen (ocean beach and military history), Delaware Seashore (barrier island), Trap Pond (northernmost natural bald cypress swamp), and Brandywine Creek (piedmont forest).
Can I camp on the beach in Delaware?
Delaware Seashore State Park offers campsites very close to the beach, and Cape Henlopen offers camping near the ocean. Both parks provide great coastal camping experiences along the Atlantic.
What is the best time to visit Delaware state parks?
Summer (June-August) is peak for beach parks. Spring and fall offer comfortable hiking weather and fewer crowds. Delaware’s coastal parks have a long season from May through October.
Explore More Delaware State Parks
Bellevue 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.
