Lums Pond State Park: Delaware's Freshwater Gem
Explore Delaware's largest freshwater pond: hiking, boating, ziplining, and camping in a diverse natural setting.
Lums Pond State Park, surrounding Delaware's largest freshwater pond, offers diverse recreational activities and habitats. From woodlands to wetlands, enjoy paddlesports, athletics, trails, camping, and a treetop adventure course. Originally a Native American hunting ground, the pond was created in the 1700s to support local milling operations and later used for the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal.
A brief summary to Lums pond
- 561 Buck Jersey Rd, Bear, Delaware, 19701, US
Local tips
- Visit between March and November to avoid the off-season and enjoy full access to park facilities and activities.
- Bring your own boat or rent one at the park to explore Lums Pond by water.
- Hike the Swamp Forest Trail for a scenic 6.4-mile loop through the park's diverse habitats.
Getting There
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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. Parking is available within the park; follow signs to designated areas. A park entrance fee is charged from March 1 to November 30: $3 for Delaware residents and $6 for out-of-state visitors.
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Public Transport
The DART First State Route 40 bus connects Wilmington to stops near Lums Pond State Park. From the bus stop (e.g., at US Rt 40 @ Op Rickey Blvd), it's necessary to use a rideshare service or taxi to complete the journey to the park entrance. The bus fare is around $2-3 , and a rideshare may cost $10-$25.
Discover more about Lums pond
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Poplar Hall
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South Chesapeake City Historic District
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lums Pond State Park
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Explore Delaware's largest freshwater pond with trails, water activities, ziplining, and camping at Lums Pond State Park in Bear.
Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park
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Lums Pond Area 4
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Lums Pond Nature Center
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Lums Pond Area 5
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Lums Pond Dog Park
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Lums Pond State Park Office
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Lums Pond State Park Campground Entrance.
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South Lums Trailhead
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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