Lums Pond State Park
Lums Pond State Park: Delaware's Freshwater Playground
Lums Pond State Park: Delaware's Freshwater Gem
Explore Delaware's largest freshwater pond with hiking, ziplining, boating, and camping at Lums Pond State Park in Bear, Delaware.
Lums Pond State Park, surrounding Delaware's largest freshwater pond, offers diverse recreational activities and habitats. Originally created in the early 1700s by damming St. Georges Creek, the park now features woodlands, wetlands, and a wide array of outdoor pursuits, from paddlesports to ziplining.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Lums Pond State Park
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
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Getting There
Driving
Lums Pond State Park is located near Bear, Delaware. From I-95, take Exit 1A for DE-896 South. Continue for about 8 miles, then turn left onto Route 71/301. The campground entrance will be on the left in about a mile. Note that a park entrance fee is charged from March 1 to November 30; it's $3 for Delaware residents and $6 for out-of-state vehicles. Parking is available throughout the park.
Public Transport
While there's no direct public transportation to Lums Pond State Park, you can take DART bus routes to nearby Bear. From Wilmington, the Route 40 bus takes approximately 45 minutes to reach stops near the park. From there, rideshare services like Uber or Lyft can connect you to the park entrance; expect to pay around $10-$25 depending on the distance and availability. A DART bus fare costs $2-$3.
Local tips
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Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the park is home to herons and ospreys.
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Consider visiting between March and November to avoid the vehicle entrance fee.
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Check the park's website for seasonal hayrides and cultural/nature programs.
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Reserve picnic pavilions in advance, especially if you need water and electricity.
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Bring your handheld GPS device to enjoy geocaching in the park's scenic outdoors.
Discover more about Lums Pond State Park
Lums Pond State Park, a sprawling 1,790-acre haven near Bear, Delaware, is a testament to the state's commitment to outdoor recreation and natural preservation. The park's centerpiece, Lums Pond, is the largest freshwater pond in Delaware, covering approximately 200 acres.
Originally formed in the early 1800s when St. Georges Creek was dammed to support local milling operations and the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal, Lums Pond has evolved from an industrial water source to a beloved recreational destination. The canal company purchased the pond to supply water to fill the canal's locks. In 1963, the state acquired the area, opening Lums Pond State Park to the public.
Today, Lums Pond State Park offers a wide range of activities. Visitors can explore over 10 miles of trails perfect for hiking, biking, and equestrian activities. The park also features athletic fields for football, soccer, cricket, tennis, basketball, and volleyball, as well as a disc golf course and playgrounds. Water enthusiasts can enjoy boating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on Lums Pond. Boat rentals are available, and a boat launch provides easy access to the water. Anglers can try their luck catching carp, pickerel, crappie, catfish, and largemouth bass. For thrill-seekers, Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park offers a unique treetop experience with ziplines, bridges, and aerial obstacles. The park also has a nature center and offers educational programs.
The park's campground provides spacious sites with hookups for RVs and tent sites, making it an ideal destination for family camping. The newly-renovated campground is open year-round. Picnicking is also popular, with several picnic pavilions and grounds available. Lums Pond State Park is a diverse and engaging destination, offering something for every outdoor enthusiast.
A brief summary to Lums Pond State Park
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