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Auburn Valley State Park: A Glimpse into Industrial History

Explore Victorian elegance, steam-powered history, and scenic trails at Auburn Valley State Park in the heart of Delaware's Red Clay Valley.

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Auburn Valley State Park in Yorklyn, Delaware, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial history. Once home to the Marshall family, pioneers in paper milling and vulcanized fiber manufacturing, the park features the historic Marshall Mansion, the Marshall Steam Museum, and scenic trails along the Red Clay Creek. Visitors can explore the legacy of steam power, Victorian architecture, and the area's industrial past.

A brief summary to Auburn Valley State Park

  • Monday 8 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the park's event calendar for Steamin' Days, when you can ride in a vintage steam car and learn about the history of steam power.
  • Tour the Marshall Mansion to discover the stories of the family who once called Auburn Valley State Park home.
  • Hike the Oversee Farm Trail for scenic views of the Red Clay Creek and the historic Oversee farmhouse and bank barn.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy by the creek or on the grounds of the Marshall Mansion.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Wilmington, take Route 48 (Lancaster Pike) or Route 41 (Newport Gap Pike) to Hockessin. At the main traffic light in Hockessin, turn right onto Yorklyn Road and continue for about 2 miles until you reach the bridge across Red Clay Creek. Follow the brown 'Auburn Heights Preserve' sign to make a sharp left onto Creek Road immediately after crossing the bridge. Auburn Valley State Park is a quarter of a mile ahead. Parking is available in the field on the right. Parking fees may apply unless you have a Delaware State Parks pass.

  • Public Transport

    From Wilmington, take the DART First State bus route 020 towards Hockessin. The bus operates five times a day, Monday to Friday. Get off at the Yorklyn Rd @ Lancaster Pk stop. From there, it's approximately a 2-mile walk along Yorklyn Road and Creek Road to the park entrance. A single bus fare costs $1 - $3. Check the DART First State website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and fare information.

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Discover more about Auburn Valley State Park

Nestled in the Red Clay Valley, Auburn Valley State Park provides a captivating journey through Delaware's industrial heritage. The park encompasses the former estate of the Marshall family, who significantly contributed to the region's development through their paper mill and vulcanized fiber businesses. The centerpiece of the park is the Marshall Mansion, a stunning example of Queen Anne-style Victorian architecture completed in 1897. Visitors can tour the mansion and step back in time to experience the life of a prominent industrial family. The Marshall Steam Museum houses the world's largest operating collection of Stanley Steamer cars, offering a glimpse into the dawn of the automotive age. Beyond the historical attractions, Auburn Valley State Park boasts scenic trails for hiking and biking. The trails wind through rolling hills, forests, and along the Red Clay Creek, a waterway that played a vital role in the area's industrial past. The Oversee Farm Trail offers a particularly picturesque hike, showcasing a historic farmhouse and bank barn. The park is also committed to accessibility, with paved paths and accessible facilities ensuring that everyone can enjoy its offerings. Auburn Valley State Park is more than just a park; it's a living museum where visitors can connect with the past while enjoying the natural beauty of the Red Clay Valley.

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