Redden State Forest
Delaware’s Largest State-Owned Forest — Over 14,000 Acres Across 18 Tracts in Central Sussex County, 18 Primitive Tent Campsites (Permit Required Year-Round), 44+ Miles of Multi-Use Trails for Hiking Horseback Riding and Mountain Biking, Headquarters Tract With Popular 4-Mile Loop Trail, Birding and Wildlife Viewing, Working Multiple-Use Forest With Active Timber and Hunting Programs, Near Georgetown Sussex County Southern Delaware
Redden State Forest is Delaware’s largest state-owned forest — over 14,000 acres across 18 tracts in central Sussex County near Georgetown, southern Delaware, managed by the Delaware Forest Service (Department of Agriculture). The forest features 18 primitive tent campsites available year-round by permit (reservation required, no electric/water/septic hookups), over 44 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and birding, the popular Headquarters Tract with a well-traveled 4-mile loop trail through pine and hardwood forest, excellent birding with species including barred owls, pileated woodpeckers, and various warblers, a working multiple-use forest with active timber management and hunting programs, seasonal hunting for deer, turkey, and small game (wear hunters’ orange during season), and a peaceful Delmarva Peninsula setting with flat terrain ideal for all skill levels.
Redden is often overlooked — most visitors associate Delaware with beaches — but the 14,000-acre forest provides a surprisingly immersive woodland experience in a state not known for wilderness.
The Headquarters Tract 4-mile loop is the most popular trail and provides an excellent introduction to the forest. For equestrians, Redden is one of Delaware’s best horseback riding destinations.
Important: This is a working forest with active hunting — visitors should wear hunters’ orange during hunting seasons and check the Delaware Forest Service website for current schedules.
Things to Do
- Hiking — 44+ miles of trails, 4-mi loop
- Primitive camping — 18 tent sites (permit req.)
- Horseback riding — multi-use trails
- Mountain biking — forest trails
- Birding — owls, woodpeckers, warblers
- Hunting — seasonal: deer, turkey
Forest Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Georgetown, Sussex County, DE |
| Size | 14,000+ acres — 18 tracts |
| Trails | 44+ miles — hiking, horse, MTB |
| Camping | 18 primitive tent sites (permit, year-round) |
| Hunting | ⚠️ Active — wear orange in season |
| Managed By | Delaware Forest Service |
| Coordinates | 38.7333° N, 75.5333° W |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you camp at Redden State Forest?
Yes — Redden State Forest near Georgetown, Delaware offers 18 primitive tent campsites available year-round by permit (reservation required). No electric, water, or septic hookups — tent camping only. Delaware’s largest state-owned forest spans 14,000+ acres with 44+ miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and birding. Note: this is a working forest with active hunting — wear hunters’ orange during hunting seasons. Managed by Delaware Forest Service. Contact: (302) 856-2893.
Last updated: May 2026
