Photo Caption: Tent sites at Cape Henlopen State Park for campers this fall. Photo credit: Chris Maust, courtesy of Outdoor Project (outdoorproject.com)
Camping is available year-round in Delaware’s state parks. The state highlights five main campgrounds that welcome fall visitors
By Jamie Kleman | Contributing Writer Delaware Live | November 2025
Trick-or-treating may be over, but Delaware is hoping families and youth groups will keep the fall fun going outdoors. On October 31, 2025, the state invited nature-minded families and organizations to experience the comfort and color of autumn in Delaware’s parks, a season known for its campfire evenings and peaceful trails.
Delaware is encouraging families, scout troops, homeschool pods, and outdoor enthusiasts to take advantage of the fall camping season across the state park system. The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control announced that autumn is one of the most popular times to stay overnight in the parks, thanks to cooler temperatures, colorful foliage and a variety of lodging options suited for all levels of outdoor experience.
Camping is available year-round in Delaware’s state parks. The state highlights five main campgrounds that welcome fall visitors:
Cape Henlopen State Park,
Delaware Seashore State Park,
Killens Pond State Park,
Lums Pond State Park, and
Trap Pond State Park.
Across these locations and other park facilities, there are more than 900 overnight sites offering options such as tents, yurts, RV sites, cabins, cottages, and waterfront houses.
Matthew Ritter, Director of the Division of Parks and Recreation, said the fall atmosphere creates meaningful opportunities for connection. “Camping in our state parks is a great way to create lasting memories and new traditions. There is something about a campfire that seems to quiet the world around us and allow people to reconnect with each other,” Ritter said.
Options for Every Type of Camper
Visitors who prefer traditional camping can choose tent or yurt sites in wooded or coastal settings. In addition to the primary campgrounds, there are group camping options in parks such as Brandywine Creek State Park, Holts Landing State Park, and White Clay Creek State Park, making them popular with scout troops, outdoor clubs, and youth programs.
For those traveling by recreational vehicle, RV sites are available at Cape Henlopen, Delaware Seashore, Killens Pond, Lums Pond, and Trap Pond. These locations offer access to trails, picnic areas, beaches, and waterways.
Cabins are available for guests who prefer more structured lodging. Cabin sites can be found at Cape Henlopen, Killens Pond, and Trap Pond. These rustic but comfortable accommodations sleep between four and six people, depending on the location. A new complex of 14 cabins is planned at Lums Pond, with two expected to open in 2026 and the remaining 12 in 2027.
Overnight guests can also choose waterfront cottages and homes along the coast. Twelve cottages are available at Indian River Inlet, each sleeping up to six people. The Assawoman Canal House in Ocean View sleeps seven people. An oceanfront house at the northern boundary of Delaware Seashore State Park sleeps six people and sits directly along the shoreline.
Pets on a leash are permitted at most campgrounds, and there are designated cabins and cottages open to guests with pets. Visitors are encouraged to confirm pet policies when booking.
A Seasonal Boost for Outdoor Learning and Connection
The fall campaign encourages families and youth organizations to experience Delaware’s public lands through nature based activities. Whether gathering around a campfire, hiking, bird watching or paddling on ponds and waterways, fall is an ideal time to experience the beauty of nature just beyond the doorstep.
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