Lums Pond State Park
🏆 Official Guide: Lums Pond State Park — A 1,790-acre park near Bear/Newark, Delaware, surrounding Lums Pond — Delaware’s largest freshwater pond (189 acres) — featuring the Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park, kayak/canoe/SUP rentals, fishing (bass, pickerel, catfish), 68 full-hookup campsites + yurts, 10+ miles of trails, 18-hole disc golf, Whale Wallow Nature Center, sports fields, and a dog park.
Lums Pond State Park is Delaware’s most action-packed state park — and its crown jewel is the largest freshwater pond in the state. From soaring through the treetops on the Go Ape zipline course to paddling the serene 189-acre pond, this park delivers an impressive range of activities for families, anglers, and outdoor adventurers.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | 1042 Howell School Rd, Bear, DE 19701 |
| Size | 1,790 acres — Delaware’s largest freshwater pond |
| Pond | 189 acres — kayaking, canoeing, fishing |
| Swimming | ⚠️ Not permitted in the pond |
| Entry Fee | Per vehicle — March 1 through November 30 |
| Go Ape | Treetop zipline + adventure course (seasonal) |
Accommodations
| Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Campground | 68 full-hookup sites (water, electric, sewer) |
| Yurts | Unique glamping option — reservable |
| Equestrian | Primitive equestrian campsites |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Go Ape Zipline | Treetop course — ziplines over the pond (seasonal) |
| Kayaking/Canoeing/SUP | Rentals available (May–Sep) — non-motorized |
| Fishing | Bass, pickerel, perch, bluegill, crappie, catfish |
| Hiking | 10+ mi — Swamp Forest Trail (6.4 mi), Little Jersey (8 mi) |
| Biking | Multi-use trails — hiking + biking + equestrian |
| Disc Golf | 18-hole course |
| Camping | 68 full-hookup + yurts + equestrian |
| Nature Center | Whale Wallow — wildlife exhibits + education |
| Dog Park | Off-leash area for dogs |
| Sports | Football, soccer, baseball, basketball, tennis, cricket |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I swim in Lums Pond?
No — swimming is not permitted in Lums Pond. The park focuses on paddling, fishing, and other water activities. Kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals are available seasonally.
What is Go Ape?
Go Ape is a treetop zipline and adventure course within the park, featuring multiple ziplines (some soaring over the pond), suspended obstacles, and Tarzan swings. It operates seasonally from spring through late fall.
