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Little Creek Wildlife Area: A Coastal Haven

Discover Delaware's natural beauty at Little Creek Wildlife Area: a haven for birding, hiking, and outdoor adventures near Dover.

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Escape to Little Creek Wildlife Area, a sprawling natural reserve near Dover, Delaware, offering diverse habitats, abundant wildlife, and tranquil trails for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and outdoor adventurers. Explore tidal marshes, agricultural fields, and coastal impoundments in this 4,700-acre sanctuary.

A brief summary to Little Creek Wildlife Area

  • Dover, Delaware, 19901, US

Local tips

  • Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best opportunities to view wildlife.
  • Bring binoculars and a field guide to enhance your birdwatching experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on varied terrain, as some trails can be muddy.
  • Check the current schedule of hunting seasons and wear bright colors if visiting during hunting season.
  • A Conservation Access Pass (CAP) is required for any registered motor vehicle to access the area.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Dover, take Route 8 (South Little Creek Road) east. Continue on Route 8 for approximately 4 miles. The entrance to Little Creek Wildlife Area will be on your right. There are multiple parking lots available throughout the area. Parking is free. Note that a Conservation Access Pass (CAP) is required for any registered motor vehicle used to access the area.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Little Creek Wildlife Area, you can take the DART First State bus Route 1 to South Little Creek Road. From there, it is approximately a 1-mile walk to the entrance of the wildlife area. A single fare on DART First State is $2.00.

Unlock the Best of Little Creek Wildlife Area

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Discover more about Little Creek Wildlife Area

Little Creek Wildlife Area, located just east of Dover, Delaware, is a sprawling 4,700-acre sanctuary offering a diverse range of natural habitats and recreational opportunities. The area consists of tidal marshes, agricultural fields, coastal impoundments, bayshore beaches, upland shrublands, and forests. This variety supports a rich array of wildlife, making it a prime destination for birdwatchers, nature photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, the land that now comprises Little Creek Wildlife Area was once a hub for a thriving oyster industry in the 1800s. The nearby town of Little Creek served as a commercial shipping port for Dover. As the oyster industry declined, the land was acquired by the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, with the first tract purchased in 1957. The area was established to provide continuous coastal protection and preserve valuable wetland habitat. Today, visitors can explore well-maintained trails, including the David Small Wildlife Viewing Boardwalk and Tower, a 400-foot elevated boardwalk with an observation tower offering panoramic views of the impoundment. The boardwalk is wheelchair accessible to the first level of the tower. The area is a stop on the Delaware Birding Trail, with over 100 species of birds observed. Hunting and fishing are also popular activities within the wildlife area. Keep an eye out for waterfowl, raptors, songbirds, white-tailed deer, turtles, and more.

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