About the Park
Trap Pond was once the site of a large freshwater wetland and still hosts the country's northernmost natural stand of baldcypress trees. The pond was created in the late 1700s to power a sawmill used in harvesting the baldcypress. The federal government 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.
Activities:
Biking
Birding
Boating
Camping
Cultural/Recreation/Nature Programs
Day Camps
Disc Golf
Fishing
Hiking
Horseshoes
Kayaking/Canoeing
Picnicking
Pontoon Boat Tours
Sports
Summer Concerts
Volleyball
Park Amenities:
Athletic Fields
Boat Ramp
Boat Rentals
Camp Store
Campground
Cornhole
Concessions
Disc Golf Course
Drinking Water
Dump Station
Fishing
Hiking/Biking/Horse Trails
Horseshoe Pits
Hunting
Ladderball
Nature Trails
Pavilions
Picnic Area
Playground
Restrooms
Volleyball Courts
Boating and Fishing
Rowboats, pedal boats, canoes and kayaks can be rented for use within the park during the summer season, and park interpreters host narrated pontoon boat tours on summer weekends and holidays. One of the streams that flows into Trap Pond has been marked as a wilderness canoe trail. A boat launching ramp accommodates small motorized boats for fishing or exploring the pond. Anglers may land a variety of fish, from pickerel, crappie, and bluegills to catfish, American eel and largemouth bass. Fishing license required
Camping
Trap Pond’s campground offers a wide variety of sites beneath its tall loblolly pines, including RV and tent sites with water and electric, walk-in tent sites, two popular island tent sites, and primitive camping areas for youth groups (available by reservation only). Waterfront climate- controlled camping cabins, each with a living area and bedroom, are available year-round. Yurts, round stationary structures with canvas walls, allow a rustic camping experience without having to pitch your own tent.
Recreation
Hiking, biking, and horse trails provide plenty of ways to explore the park. Birdwatchers may spot Bald Eagles, Pileated Woodpeckers, orioles, Wood Ducks, tanagers, and a variety of warblers, depending on the season. Shaded picnic areas overlook the pond, and three pavilions may be reserved for group events. Additional recreation areas include volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, a disc golf course, athletic fields, and a children’s playground. The Baldcypress Nature Center features a variety of displays and programs, and hosts a popular concert series during the summer.
Baldcypress Nature Center
Discover the story of the northernmost natural stand of baldcypress trees on the east coast at Trap Pond’s Baldcypress Nature Center. You’ll find programs for park guests of all ages and learn about the history of one of Delaware’s original state parks.
Nature Preserve
Nanticoke River Nature Preserve – is located along Butler Mill Branch, a tributary of the Nanticoke River. It is comprised of upland forest and Atlantic White Cedar.
Amenities: Loop Trail (pedestrian only). Parking along road.
Acreage: 23 acres
