Picture of Trap Pond

Trap Pond State Park


Trap Pond Boat Ramp Open

Water levels at Trap Pond may still be low, so caution is recommended in launching boats and navigating the pond in larger boats. For our newer visitors, please be aware that Trap Pond has a slow no wake speed limit.

Find Your Adventure at Trap Pond

Kayakers paddle the Terrapin Branch Water Trail at Trap Pond State Park

Paddle the Pond

Take in the sights, sounds, and smells as you journey into the cypress swamp. Paddle a canoe or kayak down the Terrapin Branch Water Trail to get up close and personal with the baldcypress trees and the diverse flora and fauna that live there.

Passengers njoying a pontoon boat tour at Trap Pond State Park

Take a Pontoon Tour

Join a park staff member and board a pontoon boat to travel across the pond and into the cypress swamp. Learn about the history and wildlife of the park from the comfort of an elevated pontoon boat.

View from the water along the Bob Trail

Explore the Bob Trail

Hike or bike the 4.6-mile Bob Trail through the park. The trail is an excellent place for birdwatching, and you’ll enjoy pondside views of the cypress swamp. Visitors can enjoy free bike rentals during the summer months.

The Baldcypress Nature Center at Trap Pond State Park

Visit the Baldcypress

Trap Pond has a rich history that has shaped the culture and community of the area. Stop by the Baldcypress Nature Center to discover past cultures and learn about the importance of watersheds.

Fall foliage at Trap Pond State Park

Experience the Seasons

Trap Pond State Park is different every season! Witness the beauty of the pond year-round as you enjoy fall foliage, fresh winter snowfall, spring frog calls or summer nesting songbirds.

Tent camping among the trees at Trap Pond State Park

Superintendent’s Pick: Camping

Plan a getaway to Trap Pond State Park! The park’s peaceful campground has tent sites, RV sites, cabins, and yurts. See beautiful fall colors from your campsite, catch a sunset from Cypress Point, hear the calls of owls and migrating birds, or watch falling snow from the warmth of your cabin.

About the Park

Once used as an industrial logging pond starting in the late 1700s, Trap Pond is home to the northern-most, naturally occurring, stand of Baldcypress trees. Trap Pond hosts a high diversity of plant and tree species and is an excellent fishery for bass and other warm-water fish species. The park boasts nearly nine miles of canoe and kayak trails, and kayaks, canoes, boats and paddleboards are available for rent. A ramp allows boaters to launch and fishing docks are available at multiple locations. Guided tours of the cypress swamp, numerous cemeteries and an1800s church tell the history of the area. Birders and wildlife watchers can enjoy the plentiful woodlands while more than 12 miles of trails await hikers, bikers and equestrians. The campground features tent and RV sites along with cabins and yurts for a variety of woodland stays. Disc golf, playgrounds, pavilions, a picnic area and two primitive youth camps round out the recreation opportunities. The Baldcypress Nature Center which offers exhibits and interpretive programs about the park’s natural and cultural history, is also available for special event rentals.

Amateur Photo Contest

Trap Pond Partners' Third Annual Amateur Photo Contest started in September and will run through mid-August 2024. As with last year's contest, pictures from all seasons at Trap Pond and its' properties, Trussum Pond and Barns Woods can be used.

The goal of the contest is for people to enjoy the beauty of the park and all the views it has to offer throughout the year. Photography is a great way to value extraordinary memories.

The contest is for the young and adults. Two groups- Youth (12 years and under) and Adult (13 years and older) participate. This year, in addition to First Place winners for each season in each group, there will also be Honorable Mention for each season.

Placards (information sheet), rules and regulations can be found at the Camp Store and Nature Center or at the Trap Pond Partners web site.

Boating and Fishing

Canoing and kayaking are popular at Trap Pond State Park

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. Get info about fishing permits.

Camping

Island campsite at Trap Pond State Park

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, a popular island tent site, 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. Click for info and reservations

Reader's Digest recommends Trap Pond's campground as the most scenic campsite in Delaware.

Family and Group Tours

Select programs including boating trips, wagon rides, and guided tours are available by appointment for families and groups. Please contact the nature center at (302) 875-5163 for group cost, availability, and to schedule your tour.

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.

Nature Preserve

Barnes Woods 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

Upcoming Events

Daybreak Birding

Saturday, October 5, 2024

8:00 AM

Meet us at the nature center for a leisurely walk along the pond to learn some basics of bird watching. Experienced birders are welcome too! We will supply binoculars and bird guides. No registration required. Call the park office for more information.

Add to Calendar 10/5/2024 8:00:00 AM 10/5/2024 9:00:00 AM America/New_York Daybreak Birding Meet us at the nature center for a leisurely walk along the pond to learn some basics of bird watching. Experienced birders are welcome too! We will supply binoculars and bird guides. No registration required. Call the park office for more information. Trap Pond

Bethesda Church and Cemetery Tour

Sunday, October 6, 2024

1:00 PM

Stop in at the Bethesda Church. Park staff will be available to answer questions and discuss the important history of rural churches in the area. Give yourself time to explore the cemetery and natural beauty of the area. Free, no registration required. Call the park office for more information.

Add to Calendar 10/6/2024 1:00:00 PM 10/6/2024 2:00:00 PM America/New_York Bethesda Church and Cemetery Tour Stop in at the Bethesda Church. Park staff will be available to answer questions and discuss the important history of rural churches in the area. Give yourself time to explore the cemetery and natural beauty of the area. Free, no registration required. Call the park office for more information. Trap Pond

Campground Bingo

Friday, October 11, 2024

6:00 PM

Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. No registration required.

Add to Calendar 10/11/2024 6:00:00 PM 10/11/2024 7:00:00 PM America/New_York Campground Bingo Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. No registration required. Trap Pond

Campground Bingo

Friday, October 11, 2024

7:00 PM

Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card.

Add to Calendar 10/11/2024 7:00:00 PM 10/11/2024 8:00:00 PM America/New_York Campground Bingo Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. Trap Pond

Primitive Youth Fishing Tournament

Sunday, October 13, 2024

8:30 AM

Open to ages 15 and under. Meet at the boathouse for free fishing instruction and other activities from 8:30 - 9 a.m. Fishing tournament will begin at 9 and run until 11. Catch and release will be encouraged. Equipment will be provided, or bring your own. Free, no registration required. Call the park office for more information.

Add to Calendar 10/13/2024 8:30:00 AM 10/13/2024 11:00:00 AM America/New_York Primitive Youth Fishing Tournament Open to ages 15 and under. Meet at the boathouse for free fishing instruction and other activities from 8:30 - 9 a.m. Fishing tournament will begin at 9 and run until 11. Catch and release will be encouraged. Equipment will be provided, or bring your own. Free, no registration required. Call the park office for more information. Trap Pond

Campground Bingo

Friday, October 18, 2024

6:00 PM

Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. No registration required.

Add to Calendar 10/18/2024 6:00:00 PM 10/18/2024 7:00:00 PM America/New_York Campground Bingo Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. No registration required. Trap Pond

Campground Bingo

Friday, October 18, 2024

7:00 PM

Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card.

Add to Calendar 10/18/2024 7:00:00 PM 10/18/2024 8:00:00 PM America/New_York Campground Bingo Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. Trap Pond

Three Square Meals

Saturday, October 19, 2024

11:00 AM

Learn about the contributions the Civilian Conservation Corps made to Trap Pond, Delaware, and the nation. Tour will include short 1/2 mile walk. Meet at the nature center. Free, no registration required. Call the park office for more information

Add to Calendar 10/19/2024 11:00:00 AM 10/19/2024 12:00:00 PM America/New_York Three Square Meals Learn about the contributions the Civilian Conservation Corps made to Trap Pond, Delaware, and the nation. Tour will include short 1/2 mile walk. Meet at the nature center. Free, no registration required. Call the park office for more information Trap Pond

Wagon Rides

Saturday, October 19, 2024

5:00 PM

Take a ride on the Boundary Trail in our farm-wagon. Enjoy the woods and waters of Trap Pond in true farmer fashion as you learn about the nature and culture surrounding the pond. Signup at the campground store at least one hour before the program. Free, with paid park admission! Call the park office for more information.

Add to Calendar 10/19/2024 5:00:00 PM 10/19/2024 6:00:00 PM America/New_York Wagon Rides Take a ride on the Boundary Trail in our farm-wagon. Enjoy the woods and waters of Trap Pond in true farmer fashion as you learn about the nature and culture surrounding the pond. Signup at the campground store at least one hour before the program. Free, with paid park admission! Call the park office for more information. Trap Pond

Campground Bingo

Friday, October 25, 2024

6:00 PM

Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. No registration required.

Add to Calendar 10/25/2024 6:00:00 PM 10/25/2024 7:00:00 PM America/New_York Campground Bingo Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. No registration required. Trap Pond

Campground Bingo

Friday, November 1, 2024

6:00 PM

Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. No registration required.

Add to Calendar 11/1/2024 6:00:00 PM 11/1/2024 7:00:00 PM America/New_York Campground Bingo Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. No registration required. Trap Pond

Daybreak Birding

Saturday, November 2, 2024

8:00 AM

Meet us at the nature center for a leisurely walk along the pond to learn some basics of bird watching. Experienced birders are welcome too! We will supply binoculars and bird guides. No registration required. Call the park office for more information.

Add to Calendar 11/2/2024 8:00:00 AM 11/2/2024 9:00:00 AM America/New_York Daybreak Birding Meet us at the nature center for a leisurely walk along the pond to learn some basics of bird watching. Experienced birders are welcome too! We will supply binoculars and bird guides. No registration required. Call the park office for more information. Trap Pond

Campground Bingo

Friday, November 8, 2024

6:00 PM

Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. No registration required.

Add to Calendar 11/8/2024 6:00:00 PM 11/8/2024 7:00:00 PM America/New_York Campground Bingo Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. No registration required. Trap Pond

Bethesda Church and Cemetery Tour

Sunday, November 10, 2024

1:00 PM

Stop in at the Bethesda Church. Park staff will be available to answer questions and discuss the important history of rural churches in the area. Give yourself time to explore the cemetery and natural beauty of the area. Free, no registration required. Call the park office for more information.

Add to Calendar 11/10/2024 1:00:00 PM 11/10/2024 2:00:00 PM America/New_York Bethesda Church and Cemetery Tour Stop in at the Bethesda Church. Park staff will be available to answer questions and discuss the important history of rural churches in the area. Give yourself time to explore the cemetery and natural beauty of the area. Free, no registration required. Call the park office for more information. Trap Pond

Campground Bingo

Friday, November 15, 2024

6:00 PM

Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. No registration required.

Add to Calendar 11/15/2024 6:00:00 PM 11/15/2024 7:00:00 PM America/New_York Campground Bingo Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. No registration required. Trap Pond

Silent Hunters of the Night

Sunday, November 17, 2024

6:00 PM

Come learn about the special adaptation’s owls use to hunt at night. Individuals will dissect an owl pellet and later take a short walk to hear owls in their natural environment.Free with paid entrance or camping. No registration required. Call the park office for more information.

Add to Calendar 11/17/2024 6:00:00 PM 11/17/2024 7:00:00 PM America/New_York Silent Hunters of the Night Come learn about the special adaptation’s owls use to hunt at night. Individuals will dissect an owl pellet and later take a short walk to hear owls in their natural environment.Free with paid entrance or camping. No registration required. Call the park office for more information. Trap Pond

Campground Bingo

Friday, November 22, 2024

6:00 PM

Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. No registration required.

Add to Calendar 11/22/2024 6:00:00 PM 11/22/2024 7:00:00 PM America/New_York Campground Bingo Try your luck at our weekly campground bingo games. There will be lots of prizes for the young and young at heart. Meet at the campground pavilion. 50 cents per card. No registration required. Trap Pond

Three Square Meals

Saturday, November 23, 2024

11:00 AM

Learn about the contributions the Civilian Conservation Corps made to Trap Pond, Delaware, and the nation. Tour will include short 1/2 mile walk. Meet at the nature center. Free, no registration required. Call the park office for more information

Add to Calendar 11/23/2024 11:00:00 AM 11/23/2024 12:00:00 PM America/New_York Three Square Meals Learn about the contributions the Civilian Conservation Corps made to Trap Pond, Delaware, and the nation. Tour will include short 1/2 mile walk. Meet at the nature center. Free, no registration required. Call the park office for more information Trap Pond

Map and Directions