Background

Lums Pond Nature Center: Gateway to Delaware's Largest Freshwater Pond

Explore Delaware's natural beauty at Lums Pond Nature Center, offering trails, exhibits, and access to the state's largest freshwater pond.

4.4

Lums Pond Nature Center serves as the educational hub for Lums Pond State Park, home to Delaware's largest freshwater pond. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring local wildlife, enjoy scenic views, and access the park's extensive trail system for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

A brief summary to Lums Pond Nature Center

  • Wednesday 12 pm-4 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-4 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-4 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Check the Nature Center's schedule for guided nature walks and educational programs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on potentially uneven trails.
  • Bring insect repellent, especially during the warmer months.
  • Consider bringing binoculars for enhanced birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From the intersection of DE-896 and US-40, proceed south on DE-896 for 2.6 miles. Turn right onto Howell School Rd and travel 0.4 miles. Turn right into the park. Follow the park road; the Nature Center (Area 5) is the first parking lot on the left. A daily entrance fee is charged from March 1st through November 30th: $4 for Delaware registered vehicles and $8 for out-of-state vehicles. Parking is included with the entrance fee.

  • Public Transport

    From Wilmington, take the DART First State bus route 040 towards Glasgow. Get off at the stop closest to US Rt 40 @ Op Rickey Blvd. From there, transfer to bus route 25 towards Glasgow High School and disembark at the stop closest to Howell School Road. From there, it is about a 15-minute walk (approximately 0.7 miles) to Lums Pond Nature Center. Head west on Howell School Road until you reach the Nature Center at 1068 Howell School Rd, Bear, DE 19701. A single ride on DART First State costs $2.

Unlock the Best of Lums Pond Nature Center

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Lums Pond Nature Center

Lums Pond Nature Center is the ideal starting point for discovering the natural wonders of Lums Pond State Park. Situated on the shores of Lums Pond, a 189-acre impoundment created in the early 1800s for the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, the nature center offers an immersive introduction to the park's diverse ecosystems. Inside the Whale Wallow Nature Center, visitors can engage with exhibits showcasing native reptiles, amphibians, and a 500-gallon freshwater fish tank. The center's open design provides stunning views of the surrounding forests and wetlands. Knowledgeable naturalists are on hand to answer questions and provide information about the park's flora, fauna, and upcoming programs. The nature center also serves as a trailhead for several of the park's extensive trail system. The Swamp Forest Trail, a 6.9-mile loop, offers picturesque views of the pond and traverses a variety of habitats. The Little Jersey Trail, at 8.8 miles, is a multi-use trail for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. For a shorter walk, the 0.1-mile Whale Wallow Loop is an accessible boardwalk trail that explores a unique wetland habitat. Lums Pond State Park has a rich history, dating back to its use by Native American communities and its later role in supporting the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal. Today, the park offers a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, camping, and sports. Whether you're interested in wildlife observation, outdoor adventure, or simply relaxing in nature, Lums Pond Nature Center is the perfect place to begin your exploration.

Popular Experiences near Lums Pond Nature Center

Popular Hotels near Lums Pond Nature Center

Select Currency