Cape Henlopen State Park

Cape Henlopen, just 43 miles southeast of Dover, has the distinction of being one of the United States’ first public lands. Recognized for its beauty and natural features, Pennsylvania founder William Penn decreed that the area should be preserved for the enjoyment of the local citizenry. That was nearly 3.5 centuries ago. Over the course of that time, Cape Henlopen has served several purposes but has always remained accessible to the public. In 1964, it was designated a Delaware State Park. Today, the park serves as an idyllic destination where campers, hikers, anglers and nature lovers can explore and appreciate the sand dunes, pine woods and tidal marshes in the same way the Founders did so long ago. The campground in Henlopen State Park is the perfect base to explore the area and enjoy many of the park’s attractions and activities. The campground offers a variety of tent and RV sites (many with 2-point hookups), walk-in tent sites, ADA accessible sites, and camping cabins that can accommodate up to six people. Amenities include bathhouses with showers, dump and recycling stations, a playground and an amphitheater. Camping is available from Mar. 1 through Nov. 30; seasonal campsite rates range from $20–$59/night; camping cabins range from $70–$130/night. When it’s time to play, the sky’s the limit. Four hiking trails are available for exploring the area’s pine forests and coastal dunes, visiting bunkers and watchtowers in the Fort Miles Historic Area, or taking in views of Delaware Bay and the Henlopen Lighthouse. Stop by the Nature Center and learn about some of the local bird and sea life (bird watching guides available), or take advantage of the park’s Borrow-a-Bike program and take a pleasant ride around Cape Henlopen’s bike path. For fun on the water, take a dip in the Atlantic at one of the swimming areas, try crabbing or surf fishing, or rent kayaks and go for an ocean paddle. There’s also disc golf and sports courts available for getting your game on. With so much to see and do at Cape Henlopen, you might just need to plan a longer visit!