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Woodland Beach State Wildlife Management Area: A Coastal Haven

Discover Delaware's coastal beauty at Woodland Beach State Wildlife Management Area: a haven for birding, fishing, and nature exploration.

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Explore the serene beauty of Delaware's Woodland Beach State Wildlife Management Area, a sprawling coastal refuge offering diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a glimpse into the area's rich history as a 19th-century resort destination.

A brief summary to Woodland Beach State Wildlife Management Area

Local tips

  • Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best opportunities to spot wildlife.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
  • Check the tide chart before visiting, as the road can flood and the beach can disappear at high tide.
  • A Conservation Access Pass (CAP) is required for any registered motor vehicle to access designated Delaware State Wildlife Areas.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Smyrna, Delaware, head east on Route 6 (Woodland Beach Road). Continue on Woodland Beach Road until you reach the wildlife area. Parking is available, but it may be limited during busy times. There is no entrance fee.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Woodland Beach State Wildlife Management Area, you can take a DART First State bus to Smyrna. From the Smyrna Rest Area @ P&R, you would need to take a taxi or rideshare service to reach the wildlife area, which is approximately 5 miles away. A taxi or UberX from Smyrna to Woodland Beach costs approximately $22.

Unlock the Best of Woodland Beach State Wildlife Management Area

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Discover more about Woodland Beach State Wildlife Management Area

Woodland Beach State Wildlife Management Area, located in Smyrna, Delaware, is a 6,320-acre sanctuary where nature and history intertwine. This expansive area along the Delaware Bay offers a diverse range of habitats, including tidal marshes, forests, and agricultural fields managed for wildlife. Once a popular resort destination in the 1800s, Woodland Beach drew crowds from all over with its amusement park and hotels. Steamboats from major cities like Philadelphia and Delaware City would bring visitors to enjoy the beach, live music, and various recreational activities. However, a devastating hurricane in 1878 wiped out much of the resort, leaving behind a tranquil natural area. Today, the area is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. Birdwatchers flock to the area to observe migratory birds and other waterfowl, especially from late October through mid-March. Anglers can enjoy fishing from the pier or at the stocked ponds near the Aquatic Resources Education Center. Visitors can also explore the area's trails, enjoy a picnic, or learn about the local ecosystem at the Aquatic Resources Education Center. The Woodland Beach Wildlife Area is also home to the historic Thomas Sutton House, a well-preserved 18th-century farmhouse that now serves as an office for the wildlife area personnel. The area was dedicated to Tony Florio, a longtime wildlife professional and conservationist, honoring his contributions to Delaware's natural resources.

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