Nestled at the point where the Atlantic Ocean meets Delaware Bay, Cape Henlopen State Park is a gem waiting to be discovered. This beautiful park has become a favorite destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique combination of picturesque scenery, noteworthy history, and diverse recreational opportunities. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top reasons why Cape Henlopen should be your next camping destination.

Prime Location: Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay

Cape Henlopen’s prime location provides campers with an unparalleled opportunity to wake up to breathtaking views. With the Atlantic Ocean to the east and Delaware Bay to the west, you’re never more than a 10-minute walk or bike ride away from the soothing sounds of the water and the salty breeze. Imagine watching the sunrise over the ocean—a truly unforgettable experience! In our opinion, it really is one of the best State Parks in the US!

Exceptional Campsites and Cabins

Cape Henlopen State Park offers 100 well-maintained campsites suitable for both tents and RVs. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and access to nearby restroom facilities. There are even a handful of campsites with water and electric hookups for added convenience.

Each campsite has water and electric hookups, new fire rings, and picnic tables. The majority of sites are back in, but there are 10 pull-throughs. The photo above shows our RV in site A27, which at 40’ was long enough for our 29 1/2’ Fifth Wheel and truck. If you have a longer RV, they do have a separate overflow parking area. 

The campground also has a couple of dedicated tent site areas with large campsites.

If you’re looking for a bit more comfort during your stay, the park also features twelve cabins available for rent. Each cabin comfortably sleeps six people and comes fully furnished, with climate control and a screened porch. This option is perfect for those who want to enjoy the serenity of the park, but don’t have an RV.

Amenities at Cape Henlopen State Park

Although the campsites don’t have sewer hook-ups, the campground has three dump stations conveniently spaced at the exit of the campground. The roads are paved so it would also be an easy drive to pull an external waste tank if you needed to dump without unhooking the RV. 

The campground also has a camp store with snacks and souvenirs, three bathhouses, and a laundry room.

Engaging Activities and Attractions

Cape Henlopen State Park boasts an impressive array of recreational activities that cater to a wide range of interests, making it the perfect destination for families and groups of friends with varied taste. We never left this state park during our stay because there was so much to see and do. It covers 7,000 acres with the Delaware Bay on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. 

Here are just a few highlights:

• Historical Tours: Cape Henlopen’s history dates back to World War II, when it played an essential role as a U.S. military base. Today, park visitors can take a guided tour to explore the remnants of the Fort Miles Historic Area, including massive artillery pieces and observation towers that once guarded the Atlantic coastline.
• Beaches: The park’s sandy beaches stretch along the coastline, providing an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, fishing in the ocean, or simply relaxing with a good book. It is only a 15-minute to the closest beach, which is also very quiet. The main beach area is just a short bike ride (or car) and has a large concession area and a boardwalk.
• Fishing Pier: Anglers will love casting their lines from the park’s fishing pier, which grants access to the bay. The pier is open year-round and offers facilities for cleaning your catch of the day. Fun fact, the pier was originally built to support mine operations during World War II.
• Nature Center: Cape Henlopen’s Nature Center provides a fantastic opportunity for visitors to learn about the native wildlife and ecosystems. The center boasts live animal exhibits, interactive displays, and regular educational programs perfect for all ages.
• Bike Paths: The park features an expansive network of scenic trails, many of which are perfect for biking. In fact, there are over 17 miles of multi-use trails and one that goes by the Lewes Ferry and into Rehobeth Beach. Grab a loaner from the nature center or bring your own bike for an enjoyable day exploring the picturesque landscape.

Book Your Stay at Cape Henlopen State Park

With its prime location, comfortable lodging options, and diverse recreational opportunities, Cape Henlopen State Park truly offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, now is the perfect time to plan your trip and discover this Delaware treasure.

The Delaware state park system uses Reserve America to book campsites. We really like this system because it allows you to search site availability by date as well as location in the campground. I also appreciate how when you click on a site, it shows the length and width of it as well. This makes it much easier to select one that suits your needs and preferences. 

We personally can’t wait to return!

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