As a result of a failure of the Trap Pond Spillway, pond water levels have been intentionally lowered to mitigate further damage and allow for essential repairs to the pond’s spillway. Due to low water levels, access to the pond and related activities will be limited until repairs are completed and the pond returns to acceptable and consistent levels. Video of the pond filmed March 2024. Additionally, the boat ramp is closed. For alternative boat launch options please visit https://dnrec.delaware.gov/fish-wildlife/fishing/access/
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Saturday, May 25, 2024
11:00 AM
Make your own personalized hiking staff with carving horse, draw knife, and woodburning tools. All tools and a selection of materials will be provided. Participants under 18 must be supervised by an adult. Not recommended for those under 12 years old. $15/person.
Friday, June 7, 2024
6:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Friday in May, June and July from 6pm to 7pm.
Saturday, June 8, 2024
9:00 AM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Saturday in May, June and July from 9am to 10am.
Sunday, June 9, 2024
1:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Sunday in May, June and July from 1pm to 2pm.
Friday, June 14, 2024
6:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Friday in May, June and July from 6pm to 7pm.
Saturday, June 15, 2024
9:00 AM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Saturday in May, June and July from 9am to 10am.
Sunday, June 16, 2024
1:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Sunday in May, June and July from 1pm to 2pm.
Friday, June 21, 2024
6:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Friday in May, June and July from 6pm to 7pm.
Saturday, June 22, 2024
9:00 AM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Saturday in May, June and July from 9am to 10am.
Sunday, June 23, 2024
1:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Sunday in May, June and July from 1pm to 2pm.
Friday, June 28, 2024
6:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Friday in May, June and July from 6pm to 7pm.
Saturday, June 29, 2024
9:00 AM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Saturday in May, June and July from 9am to 10am.
Sunday, June 30, 2024
1:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Sunday in May, June and July from 1pm to 2pm.
Friday, July 5, 2024
6:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Friday in May, June and July from 6pm to 7pm.
Saturday, July 6, 2024
9:00 AM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Saturday in May, June and July from 9am to 10am.
Sunday, July 7, 2024
1:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Sunday in May, June and July from 1pm to 2pm.
Friday, July 12, 2024
6:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Friday in May, June and July from 6pm to 7pm.
Saturday, July 13, 2024
9:00 AM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Saturday in May, June and July from 9am to 10am.
Sunday, July 14, 2024
1:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Sunday in May, June and July from 1pm to 2pm.
Friday, July 19, 2024
6:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Friday in May, June and July from 6pm to 7pm.
Saturday, July 20, 2024
9:00 AM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Saturday in May, June and July from 9am to 10am.
Sunday, July 21, 2024
1:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Sunday in May, June and July from 1pm to 2pm.
Friday, July 26, 2024
6:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Friday in May, June and July from 6pm to 7pm.
Saturday, July 27, 2024
9:00 AM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Saturday in May, June and July from 9am to 10am.
Sunday, July 28, 2024
1:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Sunday in May, June and July from 1pm to 2pm.
Friday, August 2, 2024
6:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Friday in May, June and July from 6pm to 7pm.
Saturday, August 3, 2024
9:00 AM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Saturday in May, June and July from 9am to 10am.
Sunday, August 4, 2024
1:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-ft pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4. Program happens every Sunday in May, June and July from 1pm to 2pm.