Cape Henlopen State Park

Open since 1682, visit America's oldest public land.

Located on the shores of the Delaware Bay, Cape Henlopen has beaches, various hiking trails, a fishing pier, and other places to explore. History buffs should visit the Fort Miles Historical Area within the park. This is where a coastal defense site was established during WWII. Different ecosystems are present here including sand dunes, forests, and beachfront. An ideal place to go birding is at the point overlook. This is where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Delaware Bay. If you're lucky, you may be able to see dolphins and seals swimming nearby. The nature center and touch tank within Cape Henlopen are family-friendly and allows visitors to get a close-up look at marine life. If you want to go swimming in the ocean, a designated area can be found via the Lewes park entrance. Lifeguards will sometimes be on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day at this spot.

If you want to spend even more time at this state park, they have yurts, cabins, tent sites, and places to hook up an RV. Campsites can accommodate up to 8 people and you can reserve campsites here year-round. Guests are not allowed to bring their own firewood, but local firewood can be purchased on site. You can reserve a spot to camp up to one year in advance and you may stay for up to two weeks at a time. Enjoy a breath of fresh air at Delaware's Cape Henlopen State Park.