Trap Pond State Park is a picturesque state park in Delaware that resides just over an hour’s drive south from its capital city of Dover.
Situated around Trap Pond, it is known for its large bald cypress tree, which is the northernmost natural stand of bald cypress trees in the country. Overall, the park covers an area of around 740 acres and offers a myriad of recreational activities to visitors, such as fishing, boating, kayaking and hiking.
For those who enjoy camping, the park has an excellent facility which includes electric and non-electric sites and rental cabins. There are also several nature trails and a visitors center that exhibits the history and ecology of the park.
The park is home to a wide range of wildlife species and is an important area for migratory birds. It is open year-round, but hours and services may vary depending on the season.
Activities
The park offers visitors several ways to connect with its outstanding natural beauty.
Outlined below is a selection of some of the main recreational outdoor activities you can do during your time there.
Boating at Trap Pond State Park
If you are into boating, you will be pleased with the opportunities Trap Pond State Park offers.
There is a boat launch at the park that allows visitors to launch their own vessels and watercraft to explore the pond.
For those who did not bring them, you can rent out canoes, pedal boats and kayaks from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
The park also offers guided boat tours that take visitors through the natural stands of bald cypress trees. These tours are a terrific way to observe the park’s unique ecosystem and discover more about it.
Fishing at Trap Pond State Park
Anglers from all over the state come to Trap Pond State Park for the chance to go fishing.
The park has a fishing dock, and fishing is allowed in the pond, which is well stocked with largemouth bass, catfish, and perch. The park also has a pier for visitors who wish to fish from the shore.
Should you want to cast a line, a Delaware fishing license is required for all persons aged 16 and over.
Hiking at Trap Pond State Park
Trap Pond State Park offers several hiking trails for visitors to explore its beautiful landscape.
Overall, there are more than 8 miles of trails that meander through the park’s natural areas. These include forests, wetlands and open fields. Some of the park’s most popular hiking trails include:
- Baldcypress Nature Trail – Length: 1 mile. Degree of Difficulty: easy
- Lighthouse Trail – Length: 1 mile. Degree of Difficulty: easy
- Pine Grove Trail – Length: 2 miles. Degree of Difficulty: moderate
Birding at Trap Pond State Park
Trap Pond State Park is a great place for birding, as it is home to a wide variety of bird species, both resident and migratory.
The park’s wetlands, forests, and open fields provide habitat for a diverse range of breeds. Some of the species that can be seen include Wood Duck, Great Blue Heron, Prothonotary Warbler, Red-headed Woodpecker, and Bald Eagle.
The park has several nature trails that offer excellent birding opportunities. It also runs boat tours that take visitors through the natural stands of bald cypress trees, where they can see a variety of waterfowl and wading birds.
During the spring and fall, it acts as an important area for migratory birds. At this time, you can expect to see warblers, vireos, and numerous other neotropical migrants.
Pets
Pets are allowed at Trap Pond State Park, but there are some restrictions and guidelines that visitors should be aware of before bringing them to the park.
Doggies must be kept on a leash at all times and are not allowed in any buildings or on designated swimming beaches.
Owners are also responsible for cleaning up after their pets have made a mess.
Furthermore, your four legged friend is allowed in the campground and campsites, but they are not allowed in the rental cabins.
It is important to remember that while the park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors with your pet, the park’s natural environment can be challenging for them. So it is worthwhile considering how well-suited they will be to the park’s conditions before bringing them with you.
Camping
Trap Pond State Park offers excellent camping opportunities for visitors who want to stay overnight.
All up, the campground has a total of 93 campsites, which includes both electric and non-electric sites. It also has rental cabins available for those who prefer a more comfortable camping experience.
Amenities within the camping area include a conveniently located bathhouse that comes with hot showers and flush toilets, as well as a central dump station. There are also fire rings and picnic tables at each individual site.
The campground is open from April 1st to October 31st and reservations can be made up to six months in advance. There is also a walk-up campsite at the park for those who prefer to not make a reservation.
A youth group camping area is also available for larger, organized groups by reservation only. This area can accommodate up to 50 people and includes a picnic shelter and a fire ring.
Campers should be aware that the park has a strictly enforced quiet hours policy, and that campfires are only allowed in designated fire rings.
Park Location
Trap Pond State Park
33587 Baldcypress Lane
Laurel, DE 19956
Phone: 302.875.5153
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Trap Pond State Park:
Leave A Comment