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Delaware
9

Delaware State Parks

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USA Parks
Delaware
Southern Region
Trap Pond State Park
Picnic Table © stateparks.com
It is always a great day for a picnic in the park.
Cool Swim © stateparks.com
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TRAP POND STATE PARK
TRAP POND STATE PARK
33587 Baldcypress Lane
Laurel, Delaware   19956

Phone: 302-875-5153
Toll Free: 302-739-9220
Reservations: 302-875-2392
Email: park email button icon
Delaware's Cypress Swamp

Freshwater wetlands once covered a large portion of southwestern Sussex County. Trap Pond State Park retains a part of the swamp's original beauty and mystery, and features the northernmost natural stand of baldcypress trees in the United States. The pond was created in the late 1700s to power a sawmill during the harvest of large baldcypress from the area. The Federal Government later purchased the pond and surrounding farmland during the 1930s and the Civilian Conservation Corps began to develop the area for recreation. Trap Pond became one of Delaware's first state parks in 1951.

Visitors have many opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the wetland forest. Hiking trails surround the pond, providing opportunities to glimpse native animal species and many flowering plants. Birdwatching is a popular activity and the observant hiker may spot a Great Blue Heron, owl, hummingbird, warbler, Bald Eagle or the elusive Pileated Woodpecker.

Recreation

Playground at Trap PondIn addition to the natural attractions, the park offers a variety of recreational activities. Experience the wonders of southern woodlands along the 4.9-mile Boundary Trail that skirts the park's 90-acre pond. The Baldcypress Nature Center features a variety of displays and programs that will enhance any visit to the park. Picnic areas overlook the pond and three pavilions may be reserved for group events. Volleyball courts and horseshoe pits encourage active competition among friends, and children will enjoy the playground complex.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Hiking Trailyes
 Swimming Beachyes
 Bridle Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
 Water/Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
Camping
Camping

Visitors who wish to stay overnight at the park may camp at one of the 142 campsites on the pond's northern shore. 130 of the sites are equipped with water and electric hookups. Tents and recreational vehicles can both be accommodated beneath the tall loblolly pines. Two primitive camping areas are also available for youth groups by reservation only.

There are also yurts available at the park. Yurts are round stationary structures with canvas walls that feature: a single and double bed bunked together, a double bed size futon, and outdoor seating area, and outdoor deck. Yurts are a fun and easy alternative to pitching a tent yourself, but still allow you to experience the rustic feel of camping outdoors. Perfect for the new camper in your family. Some restrictions do apply; please contact the park office for additional information.

Trap Pond also offers Camping Cabins for your enjoyment.

The Trap Pond State Park oversees 2,685 acres of land that offer recreational opportunities to the public. Nearby Trussum Pond is nationally known for its scenic baldcypress stands and the James Branch Nature Preserve, downstream from Trap and Trussum Ponds, features some of the largest baldcypress trees in the state. In addition, the Barnes Woods Nature Preserve south of Seaford offers a self-guided nature trail through hardwood forests, along a tidal stream. A visit to the wetlands of Trap Pond State Park treats each guest to a wonderland of spectacular beauty.
In Park Availability Calendars
PAVILION (Units Available For Upcoming Weekends)
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STANDARD (Units Available For Upcoming Weekends)
February 2025
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2345678
9101112131415
16171819202122
232425262728-
March 2025
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9101112131415
16171819202122
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TENT ONLY (Units Available For Upcoming Weekends)
February 2025
------1
2345678
9101112131415
16171819202122
232425262728-
March 2025
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2345678
9101112131415
16171819202122
23242526272829
3031-----
April 2025
--12345
6789101112
13141516171819
20212223242526
27282930---
May 2025
----123
45678910
11121314151617
18192021222324
25262728293031
YURT (Units Available For Upcoming Weekends)
February 2025
------1
2345678
9101112131415
16171819202122
232425262728-
March 2025
------1
2345678
9101112131415
16171819202122
23242526272829
3031-----
April 2025
--12345
6789101112
13141516171819
20212223242526
27282930---
May 2025
----123
45678910
11121314151617
18192021222324
25262728293031
Boating
Boating among the baldcypress is a favorite pastime at the park. Rowboats, pedal boats, canoes and kayaks can be rented during the summer season, and the park interpreter hosts narrated pontoon boat tours on weekends and holidays, from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. A boat launching ramp can accommodate small motorized boats for fishing or scenic excursions. Anglers on the water or shore may land largemouth bass, pickerel, crappie, and bluegills. One of the streams that flows out of Trap Pond has been marked as a wilderness canoe trail for those who wish to explore the swamp's interior.
Fishing
Anglers on the water or shore may land largemouth bass, pickerel, crappie, and bluegills. One of the streams that flows into Trap Pond has been marked as a wilderness canoe trail for those who wish to explore the swamp's interior.


Location
Trap Pond State Park is located near Berlin, Georgetown and Laurel

Picnicking
Trap Pond State Park offers scenic picnicking spots with tables and grills by the water's edge, amidst lush forest settings.
Birding
Birding enthusiasts can explore diverse habitats, including hardwood forests and the northernmost natural stand of bald cypress. Notable species include Prothonotary Warblers, Great Blue Herons, and Red-shouldered Hawks. The park's wetlands attract waterfowl like Wood Ducks while songbirds thrive in upland areas. Birdwatchers may also spot Barred Owls or Pileated Woodpeckers among the trees.

Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars for birding along hiking trails or during guided pontoon boat tours on the pond. Seasonal migrations offer varied sightings; spring brings warblers while fall sees raptors passing through.

The Baldcypress Nature Center offers educational programs about local avian life and conservation efforts within its boundaries.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
June 3 Lots of nature by OB FAMILY
park review stars; one to five Have your kids take a camera and fill it with so many kinds of natural loving things. This trip will always be in their hearts and we will be back.
August 19 Very Clean and a Friendly Park by Rose
park review stars; one to five I do have a concern as to not being able to check in until 1:00. When the lot is empty and you have paid for that lot. Then you should be able to check in at 8:00 when your store opens. I can see if someone is on that lot from the night before and you have to rake it. But if that is empty from the night before why not let the camper check in. After all you are paying for the entire day and only getting from 1:00 on.
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