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James Farm Ecological Preserve: A Coastal Oasis

Explore diverse ecosystems, hike scenic trails, and discover a peaceful bayside beach at this free nature preserve near Bethany Beach, Delaware.

4.8

Escape the beach crowds at James Farm Ecological Preserve, a 150-acre haven on Indian River Bay in Ocean View, Delaware. Explore diverse habitats, from salt marshes to hardwood forests, and enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and a peaceful bayside beach. It's a natural escape with free admission.

A brief summary to James Farm Ecological Preserve

  • Monday 6 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-8 pm
  • Friday 6 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching, especially during spring and fall migrations.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails, which span over three miles.
  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning views over Indian River Bay.
  • Check the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays' website or Facebook page for updates on trail closures or events.
  • Bring your leashed dog to enjoy the trails and beach with you.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Ocean View, Delaware, head east on Route 26 (Atlantic Avenue). Turn right onto Cedar Neck Road (Road 357). Continue for approximately 1.3 miles; the entrance and parking lot for James Farm Ecological Preserve will be on your left. Parking is free. Be aware that parking capacity is limited, especially during peak season.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From the center of Ocean View, a taxi or ride-share to James Farm Ecological Preserve will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $15-$25 for a one-way trip. Confirm the fare with the driver or through the app before you begin your journey.

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Discover more about James Farm Ecological Preserve

James Farm Ecological Preserve offers a serene escape into nature, a short drive from Bethany Beach, Delaware. This 150-acre preserve, managed by the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays, boasts a diverse landscape encompassing seven distinct habitats. Visitors can wander through salty low marshes, shrubby high marshes, maritime forests of loblolly pines, and shady hardwood forests of oak and hickory. Meadows that were once farm fields add another layer to the preserve's ecological tapestry. The land was gifted to Sussex County in 1992 by Mary Lighthipe, a descendant of the James family who had farmed the land for generations. Her gift, in memory of her son Harold, came with the stipulation that the land be used for environmental education and recreation. Since 1998, the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays has managed the property, transforming it into an ecological preserve. Today, the preserve features over three miles of marked hiking trails, three observation platforms, and a boardwalk crossing to a bayside beach. It's an ideal spot for birdwatching, with opportunities to see a variety of species throughout the year. The preserve also serves as an outdoor classroom, hosting school groups and educational programs. Visitors can explore a freshwater wetland area, created to attract wildlife like deer, ducks, reptiles, and amphibians. Recent improvements have been made to enhance the visitor experience and protect the preserve's ecosystems. These include a new parking lot entrance, expanded parking facilities, and a multi-purpose event lawn. Future plans include a three-season education building for programs and events. James Farm invites the public to immerse themselves in its beautiful habitats.

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