Notice of Hybrid Public Meeting
This meeting is regarding the Section 106 review, under the National Historic Preservation Act, and the development of a memorandum of agreement for the demolition and replacement of the Bancroft pedestrian bridge, located at Alapocas Run State Park in New Castle County, Wilmington, Delaware.
Seeking public comment
Wednesday, April 17th, 2024, 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Blue Ball Barn
1914 W Park Dr
Wilmington DE, 19803
Find Your Adventure at Alapocas Run State Park
Explore Alapocas Woods
Enjoy a leisure 0.7-mile-long hike through mature woodlands in the middle of the city. Look for native pawpaw trees and take in the sights and sounds of nature.
Observe the Blue Granite Cliffs
The cliffs, made of blue rock gneiss, offer a glimpse into the park’s quarrying past. These rocks were once used to help build the city of Wilmington!
Discover the Blue Ball Barn
Step back in time at the Blue Ball Barn. Learn about the rich history of the area while touring The Delaware Folk Art Collection.
Ride the Northern Delaware Greenway Trail
Hike or bike through the natural and cultural history of Wilmington! Stop at historic overlooks to learn about the textile mills that once thrived throughout the region.
Have Fun at the Can-Do Playground
Kids of all abilities can go for a swing, or play in the sand at Delaware's first "boundless playground." You can also read a new story on the Storybook Trail.
Superintendent’s Pick: Climb the Rock Wall
Climb Delaware’s only natural rock climbing wall! Our staff offer top-rope climbing programs — with some basic tips and equipment, rock climbing can be a unique way to experience the park.
About the Park
Around Delaware’s beautiful Blue Rock cliff, formerly quarried and now home to the state’s only natural rock-climbing wall, natural resources like mature woodlands and the Brandywine River meet a rich industrial and cultural history at Alapocas Run State Park. The Blue Ball Barn, now a popular event space named for the Blue Ball Tavern that once served travelers in the area, was built in the 1900s as a dairy barn that supported A.I. DuPont’s Nemours estate. It now houses the Delaware Folk Art Collection and tells the park’s history in story form. Pawpaw trees, North America’s largest native fruit-bearing tree, grows in the forest understory. Delaware’s only venomous snake, the non-aggressive Northern Copperhead, occurs here. A Storybook Trail winds around the Can-do Playground, designed to be accessible to every child. Alapocas Run is also home to the Northern Delaware Greenway Trail, a National Recreation Trail.
Park History
The land that became Alapocas Run State Park was donated to the city of Wilmington in the early 1900s by local industrialist William Bancroft. It eventually came to include the Blue Ball Barn, built in 1914 by Bancroft's neighbor, Alfred I. DuPont, who named the barn after an inn and meeting house that was once located near the property. Alapocas Run became a state park in 2002.
Blue Ball Barn
This extraordinary barn, progressive in its environmental design, is the current home of the Delaware Folk Art Collection. Renovations have created a multifunctional conference, special event and gallery space for events, weddings and conferences, featuring meeting rooms, a large banquet room and a secluded courtyard. The Blue Ball Barn was the first public building in Delaware to become a LEED-certified building, meaning it meets stringent environmentally-friendly building design standards.
Learn more about the Blue Ball Barn, including how to host your event here.
Bancroft Bridge Update
After historic floods from the remnants of Hurricane Ida during the last week of August in 2021, the Bancroft Bridge was struct with high flood water and heavy debris causing severe damage. The Division closed the bridge and performed structural analysis to determine the impact of the damage. The Division has a written report and recorded a presentation of the findings and alternative solutions evaluated to fix or replace the bridge.
View the video presentation from the March 28, 2023 meeting.
View the video presentation from the October 27, 2022 meeting.
View the video presentation from the February 10, 2022 meeting.
Available are also the follwoing presentations:
- Project Update Meeting Presentation from March 28, 2023
- Public Meeting Presentation from October 27, 2022
- Public Workshop Presentation
- DNREC Alternatives Report
The Delaware Folk Art Collection
The collection currently contains over 120 works from Delaware artists, reflecting the diverse cultural backgrounds that make up the First State. Visitors are able to tour the exhibits in person at the Barn or take a virtual tour. The Blue Ball Barn is a Frommer’s recommended attraction.
Can-Do Playground
The 27,000 square foot Can-Do Playground, is the first Boundless Playground™ in Delaware. Designed to be accessible to every child, regardless of physical, mental and sensory abilities, the playground was made possible with the help of six Wilmington-area Rotary Clubs. For more information about boundless playgrounds, visit the Can-Do Playground website.
Athletic Fields
Is your club, league, or group looking for a well-maintained area for games or other activities? Three versatile fields in the East Park section of Alapocas Run State Park offer a variety of opportunities for organized sports.
Sports Accommodated:
Fields 1 and 2: Soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, flag football, Ultimate Frisbee®, kickball
Field 3: Field hockey, flag football, Ultimate Frisbee®, rugby, youth soccer, youth lacrosse
The athletic field permit application available under Maps + Downloads on this page contains field reservation information and rates.
Rock Climbing and Rappelling
Alapocas Run State Park offers top-rope climbing and rappelling. In top roping, the rope is run from the climber through an anchor at the top of the climb, then back down to attach to the belayer. The belayer is able to stop a falling climber immediately, which makes top-rope climbing one of the safest forms of climbing. Rappelling is a controlled descent on a rope from an anchor on the top of a rock or cliff face. Like top-rope climbing, rappelling requires a mechanical device that can lock the rope, preventing an uncontrolled descent. The park offers climbing programs and camps.
More info can be found on our Rock Climbing page
A climbing permit is required to use the park’s rock wall; the application is available on this page under Maps + Downloads.
Upcoming Events
Greenwillow: Kalos
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
7:00 PM
Kalos (Scottish fiddle champion Ryan McKasson, guitarist & vocalist Eric McDonald and accordion master Jeremiah McLane) are masters of tradition who purposefully explore the dark corners floating on its edges. The result is an alluring complexity, full of spontaneous musicality. An air of mystery and adventure pervades a sound compelling enough to transcend boundaries and appeal to music lovers of all stripes. For information on all these shows. visit www.greenwillow.org, email info@greenwillow.org, or call (610) 566-4932
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5/21/2024 7:00:00 PM
5/21/2024 10:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Greenwillow: Kalos
Kalos (Scottish fiddle champion Ryan McKasson, guitarist & vocalist Eric McDonald and accordion master Jeremiah McLane) are masters of tradition who purposefully explore the dark corners floating on its edges. The result is an alluring complexity, full of spontaneous musicality. An air of mystery and adventure pervades a sound compelling enough to transcend boundaries and appeal to music lovers of all stripes. For information on all these shows. visit www.greenwillow.org, email info@greenwillow.org, or call (610) 566-4932
Alapocas Run
Harmony Weaver Guild Exhibition
Friday, May 24, 2024
8:00 AM
See the work of the Harmony Weavers Guild, a local collective of creative textile and fiber enthusiasts. Their work includes tapestries, wearables, and felted pieces from a variety of artists as well as fiber materials. Free, no registration required. This exhibition runs from May 4th to May 27th.
Add to Calendar
5/24/2024 8:00:00 AM
5/24/2024 4:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Harmony Weaver Guild Exhibition
See the work of the Harmony Weavers Guild, a local collective of creative textile and fiber enthusiasts. Their work includes tapestries, wearables, and felted pieces from a variety of artists as well as fiber materials. Free, no registration required. This exhibition runs from May 4th to May 27th.
Alapocas Run
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Saturday, May 25, 2024
9:30 AM
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Ages 8 and up. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon Friday, the day before the program date. Register online; call 302-577-7020 with any questions. $30 per person
Add to Calendar
5/25/2024 9:30:00 AM
5/25/2024 11:30:00 AM
America/New_York
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Ages 8 and up. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon Friday, the day before the program date. Register online; call 302-577-7020 with any questions. $30 per person
Alapocas Run
Temporary Art Exhibition: Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay Opening Day
Thursday, May 30, 2024
8:00 AM
Join us at the Blue Ball Barn for The Beauty of Essence by artist Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay. Whether it's clothing accessories or canvas, she believes what we wear and view identifies who we are and what we have experienced in life. "Anything I paint has an emotional connection to the experiences life brings me becoming a part of my navigation through life and the paintings I create to be seen or worn. I encourage anyone who interacts with my work to feel hope and freedom." The Beauty of Essence runs from May 30 to June 26. No registration required. Free, with paid park admission.
Add to Calendar
5/30/2024 8:00:00 AM
5/30/2024 4:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Temporary Art Exhibition: Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay Opening Day
Join us at the Blue Ball Barn for The Beauty of Essence by artist Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay. Whether it's clothing accessories or canvas, she believes what we wear and view identifies who we are and what we have experienced in life. "Anything I paint has an emotional connection to the experiences life brings me becoming a part of my navigation through life and the paintings I create to be seen or worn. I encourage anyone who interacts with my work to feel hope and freedom." The Beauty of Essence runs from May 30 to June 26. No registration required. Free, with paid park admission.
Alapocas Run
Temporary Art Exhibition: Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay
Wednesday, June 5, 2024
8:00 AM
Join us at the Blue Ball Barn for The Beauty of Essence by artist Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay. Whether it's clothing accessories or canvas, she believes what we wear and view identifies who we are and what we have experienced in life. "Anything I paint has an emotional connection to the experiences life brings me becoming a part of my navigation through life and the paintings I create to be seen or worn. I encourage anyone who interacts with my work to feel hope and freedom." The Beauty of Essence runs from May 30 to June 26. No registration required. Free, with paid park admission.
Add to Calendar
6/5/2024 8:00:00 AM
6/5/2024 4:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Temporary Art Exhibition: Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay
Join us at the Blue Ball Barn for The Beauty of Essence by artist Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay. Whether it's clothing accessories or canvas, she believes what we wear and view identifies who we are and what we have experienced in life. "Anything I paint has an emotional connection to the experiences life brings me becoming a part of my navigation through life and the paintings I create to be seen or worn. I encourage anyone who interacts with my work to feel hope and freedom." The Beauty of Essence runs from May 30 to June 26. No registration required. Free, with paid park admission.
Alapocas Run
Art in Action: Sculpture - SOLD OUT
Sunday, June 9, 2024
1:00 PM
Chanchitos y Gatitos: Join Miranda Blas to create sculptures using the Chilean Folk Art tradition of Chanchitos. Chanchito means little piggy and gatitos little kitties in Spanish. Each chanchito has three legs and owning one is considered good luck! Both chanchitos and gatitos are Miranda’s interpretation of the traditional Chilean craft. Bring home some buena suerte and lots of cuteness with one of these chanchitos! This program sold out, please check out some of the other programs we offer.
Add to Calendar
6/9/2024 1:00:00 PM
6/9/2024 3:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Art in Action: Sculpture - SOLD OUT
Chanchitos y Gatitos: Join Miranda Blas to create sculptures using the Chilean Folk Art tradition of Chanchitos. Chanchito means little piggy and gatitos little kitties in Spanish. Each chanchito has three legs and owning one is considered good luck! Both chanchitos and gatitos are Miranda’s interpretation of the traditional Chilean craft. Bring home some buena suerte and lots of cuteness with one of these chanchitos! This program sold out, please check out some of the other programs we offer.
Alapocas Run
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Tuesday, June 11, 2024
10:00 AM
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Add to Calendar
6/11/2024 10:00:00 AM
6/11/2024 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Alapocas Run
Temporary Art Exhibition: Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay
Wednesday, June 12, 2024
8:00 AM
Join us at the Blue Ball Barn for The Beauty of Essence by artist Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay. Whether it's clothing accessories or canvas, she believes what we wear and view identifies who we are and what we have experienced in life. "Anything I paint has an emotional connection to the experiences life brings me becoming a part of my navigation through life and the paintings I create to be seen or worn. I encourage anyone who interacts with my work to feel hope and freedom." The Beauty of Essence runs from May 30 to June 26. No registration required. Free, with paid park admission.
Add to Calendar
6/12/2024 8:00:00 AM
6/12/2024 4:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Temporary Art Exhibition: Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay
Join us at the Blue Ball Barn for The Beauty of Essence by artist Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay. Whether it's clothing accessories or canvas, she believes what we wear and view identifies who we are and what we have experienced in life. "Anything I paint has an emotional connection to the experiences life brings me becoming a part of my navigation through life and the paintings I create to be seen or worn. I encourage anyone who interacts with my work to feel hope and freedom." The Beauty of Essence runs from May 30 to June 26. No registration required. Free, with paid park admission.
Alapocas Run
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Tuesday, June 18, 2024
10:00 AM
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Add to Calendar
6/18/2024 10:00:00 AM
6/18/2024 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Alapocas Run
Temporary Art Exhibition: Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay
Wednesday, June 19, 2024
8:00 AM
Join us at the Blue Ball Barn for The Beauty of Essence by artist Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay. Whether it's clothing accessories or canvas, she believes what we wear and view identifies who we are and what we have experienced in life. "Anything I paint has an emotional connection to the experiences life brings me becoming a part of my navigation through life and the paintings I create to be seen or worn. I encourage anyone who interacts with my work to feel hope and freedom." The Beauty of Essence runs from May 30 to June 26. No registration required. Free, with paid park admission.
Add to Calendar
6/19/2024 8:00:00 AM
6/19/2024 4:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Temporary Art Exhibition: Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay
Join us at the Blue Ball Barn for The Beauty of Essence by artist Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay. Whether it's clothing accessories or canvas, she believes what we wear and view identifies who we are and what we have experienced in life. "Anything I paint has an emotional connection to the experiences life brings me becoming a part of my navigation through life and the paintings I create to be seen or worn. I encourage anyone who interacts with my work to feel hope and freedom." The Beauty of Essence runs from May 30 to June 26. No registration required. Free, with paid park admission.
Alapocas Run
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Tuesday, June 25, 2024
10:00 AM
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Add to Calendar
6/25/2024 10:00:00 AM
6/25/2024 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Alapocas Run
Temporary Art Exhibition: Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay Closing Day
Wednesday, June 26, 2024
8:00 AM
Join us at the Blue Ball Barn for The Beauty of Essence by artist Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay. Whether it's clothing accessories or canvas, she believes what we wear and view identifies who we are and what we have experienced in life. "Anything I paint has an emotional connection to the experiences life brings me becoming a part of my navigation through life and the paintings I create to be seen or worn. I encourage anyone who interacts with my work to feel hope and freedom." The Beauty of Essence runs from May 30 to June 26. No registration required. Free, with paid park admission.
Add to Calendar
6/26/2024 8:00:00 AM
6/26/2024 4:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Temporary Art Exhibition: Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay Closing Day
Join us at the Blue Ball Barn for The Beauty of Essence by artist Sa-Kreea Mo'Nay. Whether it's clothing accessories or canvas, she believes what we wear and view identifies who we are and what we have experienced in life. "Anything I paint has an emotional connection to the experiences life brings me becoming a part of my navigation through life and the paintings I create to be seen or worn. I encourage anyone who interacts with my work to feel hope and freedom." The Beauty of Essence runs from May 30 to June 26. No registration required. Free, with paid park admission.
Alapocas Run
Story on the Go
Wednesday, June 26, 2024
10:00 AM
Drop by the Storybook Trail and join a naturalist in exploring stories and nature with hands-on activities based on the story of the month. No registration required. Free!
Add to Calendar
6/26/2024 10:00:00 AM
6/26/2024 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Story on the Go
Drop by the Storybook Trail and join a naturalist in exploring stories and nature with hands-on activities based on the story of the month. No registration required. Free!
Alapocas Run
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Tuesday, July 2, 2024
10:00 AM
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Add to Calendar
7/2/2024 10:00:00 AM
7/2/2024 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Alapocas Run
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Tuesday, July 9, 2024
10:00 AM
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Add to Calendar
7/9/2024 10:00:00 AM
7/9/2024 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Alapocas Run
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Tuesday, July 16, 2024
10:00 AM
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Add to Calendar
7/16/2024 10:00:00 AM
7/16/2024 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Alapocas Run
Art in Action: Linocut Printmaking
Wednesday, July 17, 2024
6:00 PM
During this workshop, participants will learn about the fundamentals and history of different types of printing from teaching artist and printmaker Charlotte Holt. Design and carve your own linocut print to take home. All materials will be provided, no experience is necessary. Ages 13 and older. Registration equired, $20 per person.
Add to Calendar
7/17/2024 6:00:00 PM
7/17/2024 8:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Art in Action: Linocut Printmaking
During this workshop, participants will learn about the fundamentals and history of different types of printing from teaching artist and printmaker Charlotte Holt. Design and carve your own linocut print to take home. All materials will be provided, no experience is necessary. Ages 13 and older. Registration equired, $20 per person.
Alapocas Run
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Tuesday, July 23, 2024
10:00 AM
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Add to Calendar
7/23/2024 10:00:00 AM
7/23/2024 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Alapocas Run
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Tuesday, July 23, 2024
6:00 PM
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Add to Calendar
7/23/2024 6:00:00 PM
7/23/2024 8:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Alapocas Run
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Thursday, July 25, 2024
6:00 PM
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Add to Calendar
7/25/2024 6:00:00 PM
7/25/2024 8:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Alapocas Run
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
10:00 AM
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Add to Calendar
7/30/2024 10:00:00 AM
7/30/2024 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Alapocas Run
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
6:00 PM
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Add to Calendar
7/30/2024 6:00:00 PM
7/30/2024 8:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Alapocas Run
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Thursday, August 1, 2024
6:00 PM
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Add to Calendar
8/1/2024 6:00:00 PM
8/1/2024 8:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Alapocas Run
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Saturday, August 3, 2024
9:30 AM
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Add to Calendar
8/3/2024 9:30:00 AM
8/3/2024 11:30:00 AM
America/New_York
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Alapocas Run
Art in Action: Painting with Tea
Saturday, August 3, 2024
1:00 PM
Join us at the Barn for this two hour workshop where you will learn how to paint a rose using nothing but brewed tea and a paintbrush. All materials are provided, this workshop is suited for beginners and advanced painters alike. Participants will leave with a 5" x 7" painting that is a handsome conversation starter. Registration required, $10 per person.
Add to Calendar
8/3/2024 1:00:00 PM
8/3/2024 3:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Art in Action: Painting with Tea
Join us at the Barn for this two hour workshop where you will learn how to paint a rose using nothing but brewed tea and a paintbrush. All materials are provided, this workshop is suited for beginners and advanced painters alike. Participants will leave with a 5" x 7" painting that is a handsome conversation starter. Registration required, $10 per person.
Alapocas Run
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Tuesday, August 6, 2024
10:00 AM
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Add to Calendar
8/6/2024 10:00:00 AM
8/6/2024 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Alapocas Run
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Tuesday, August 6, 2024
5:30 PM
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Add to Calendar
8/6/2024 5:30:00 PM
8/6/2024 7:30:00 PM
America/New_York
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Alapocas Run
Touch a Truck
Wednesday, August 7, 2024
10:00 AM
Join us at the Can-Do Playground to see and touch the special machines and vehicles that the Delaware State Parks maintenance team and more use to keep our parks beautiful. No registration required. Free!
Add to Calendar
8/7/2024 10:00:00 AM
8/7/2024 12:00:00 PM
America/New_York
Touch a Truck
Join us at the Can-Do Playground to see and touch the special machines and vehicles that the Delaware State Parks maintenance team and more use to keep our parks beautiful. No registration required. Free!
Alapocas Run
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Thursday, August 8, 2024
5:30 PM
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Add to Calendar
8/8/2024 5:30:00 PM
8/8/2024 7:30:00 PM
America/New_York
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Alapocas Run
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Tuesday, August 13, 2024
10:00 AM
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Add to Calendar
8/13/2024 10:00:00 AM
8/13/2024 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Nature on the Go- Can Do Playground
Nature on the Go is a weekly program where we explore different aspects of our natural world and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. No registration required. Free!
Alapocas Run
Story on the Go
Wednesday, August 14, 2024
10:00 AM
Drop by the Storybook Trail and join a naturalist in exploring stories and nature with hands-on activities based on the story of the month. No registration required. Free!
Add to Calendar
8/14/2024 10:00:00 AM
8/14/2024 11:00:00 AM
America/New_York
Story on the Go
Drop by the Storybook Trail and join a naturalist in exploring stories and nature with hands-on activities based on the story of the month. No registration required. Free!
Alapocas Run
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Saturday, August 24, 2024
9:30 AM
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Add to Calendar
8/24/2024 9:30:00 AM
8/24/2024 11:30:00 AM
America/New_York
Introduction to Rock Climbing
Discover the basics of outdoor top rope climbing. Get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall, after a brief introduction of equipment, climbing and safety. Helmets, harness and ropes provided. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please note that it is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Pre-registration with full payment required by noon before the program date. $30 per person.
Alapocas Run
1914 W. Park Drive
Wilmington, DE 19803
Hours + Info
Open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset
Park Office/Blue Ball Barn Hours
Open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily
The park office is located in the Blue Ball Barn.
The Can-Do Playground is located at
4360 Weldin Road
Wilmington, DE
* Sunset time in Wilmington (EST) by Time.is
Entrance Fees
In-state: $4 Daily
Out-of-state: $8 Daily
Maps + Downloads
- Alapocas Run Park Map
- Athletic Field Permit Application
- Permit Application
- Rock Climbing Permit Application
- Blue Ball Barn Business Reservation
- Blue Ball Barn Special Event Reservation
- LEED Features Illustration
Love This Park?
- Make an Online Donation to Alapocas Run State Park
- Become an Alapocas Run State Park Volunteer
- Join the Friends of Wilmington Parks
Activities
- Biking
- Club/League/Group Sports
- Conferences/Meetings
- Cultural/Recreation/Nature
- Programs
- Day Camps
- Hiking
- Picnicking
- Private Parties
- Rock-Climbing
- School Group Programs
- Summer Concerts
- Weddings/Receptions
Amenities
- Blue Ball Barn
- Can-Do Boundless Playground™
- Conference Rooms with Wi-Fi
- Day Use Areas
- Day Use Group Facility
- Exhibit Entry Rooms
- Folk Art Gallery One and Two
- Calving Room: Rotating Exhibit Space
- Hiking/Biking Trails
- LEED-Certified Green Building
- Multi-Purpose Athletic Fields
- Milking Parlor: Historical Exhibit and Kids Play Space
- Pavilion
- Picnic Area
- Restrooms
- Natural Rock-Climbing Wall
- Visitors Center
- Wheelchair Accessible
