Delaware's State Parks are some of the most underrated attractions in the entire state! With so many people heading north to the mountains when they want to see some nature, they often forget about the treasures hiding in our small wonder. Trap Pond State Park is one such wonder - if you've never paddled between the historic and rare bald cypress trees here, you are really missing out.
Trap Pond State Park in Laurel, Delaware is the northernmost park of bald cypress trees in the United States.
You can find the park at 33587 Bald Cypress Dr, Laurel, Delaware, DE 19956-2988. It's open from 8am - sunset year round, and the nature center's hours are 8 AM - 4:30 PM.
These rot-resistant trees live right in the water.
Trap Pond is one of the best places in Delaware for birdwatching. The trees themselves attract many different bird species, including great blue herons, warblers, woodpeckers and owls. Bald eagles also nest at Trap Pond.
The best way to see Trap Pond State Park is out on the water.
You can rent pedal boats, kayaks, canoes, rowboats, paddle boards, and even pontoon boats at Trap Pond. These are all affordable, starting at $7 an hour, or $35 for a day. Check out this list of rates for your chosen water craft.
Trap Pond is easy for everyone to paddle, even if you've never been on the water before.
You can stay on on the pond in open water and get used to steering and balancing while you enjoy the views of the rare bald cypress trees.
Once you've figured out your boat, the three canoe trails are the highlight of the park.
The paddle trails can be found in detail here. Personally, I love taking the Terrapin Branch water trail. It's 2.8 miles and is best for a paddler who has some experience. It takes you from the boat launch through the bald cypress swamp, and underneath the loblolly trail bridge. If you're lucky, you'll see an otter or two!
Trap Pond is also a great place to try Stand Up Paddleboarding, or SUPing, for the first time.
The quiet water of the pond makes it easy to get your balance and learn this popular new activity. It looks hard, but even the most uncoordinated person can figure it out - trust me on that one.
Outside of the water, Trap Pond offers miles of hiking and biking trails.
These are beautiful year round, and the loblolly trail is a full loop of the park. You'll see the swamp, the trees, and the nature center.
Like any Delaware State Park, Trap Pond offers amazing camping opportunities.
The cabins here are comfortable, quiet and affordable, which makes Trap Pond State Park a great choice for a summer getaway. Imagine the fun you'll have on the trails, the pond, and in your own personal oasis!
If you love the idea of getting out into nature but maybe not all of the work of paddling, you might want to check out Delaware's Natural Lazy River, where you can just relax and let the water take you on your journey downstream.
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