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Brandywine Creek State Park: A Piedmont Gem

Explore rolling meadows, historic stone walls, and scenic trails at Brandywine Creek State Park, a natural escape in northern Delaware.

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Brandywine Creek State Park, a sprawling 933-acre haven just north of Wilmington, Delaware, offers a diverse landscape of rolling meadows, lush forests, and historic stone walls. Originally part of the du Pont family's Winterthur estate, the park provides a scenic escape with over 14 miles of trails, nature preserves, and recreational activities.

A brief summary to Brandywine Creek State Park

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the park's many trails, which range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the park is home to a diverse array of bird species.
  • Visit the Brandywine Creek Nature Center for educational programs and guided tours.
  • Check the park's website for information on events, such as guided hikes and historical reenactments.
  • Be aware that park entrance fees are in effect from March 1st through November 30th.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Brandywine Creek State Park is located north of Wilmington, Delaware. From I-95, exit onto Route 202 North. Follow 202 North to Mt. Lebanon Rd and turn left. At the second stop sign at the bottom of the hill, turn right. Go over the bridge and bear right; the park entrance is on the right. Parking is available in designated lots throughout the park. Parking fees may be in effect seasonally.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Brandywine Creek State Park, you can take a DART bus to Wilmington and then a taxi or ride-sharing service to the park. From the Wilmington Train Station, a taxi or ride-share to the park entrance at 41 Adams Dam Rd costs approximately $20-$30.

  • Walking

    If you are staying at a nearby hotel or residence, such as along Kennett Pike, you can walk to the park. From Kennett Pike (Route 52), turn onto Adams Dam Road. The park entrance will be on your left. Be aware that Adams Dam Road has limited sidewalks, so use caution.

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Discover more about Brandywine Creek State Park

Brandywine Creek State Park, located three miles north of Wilmington, Delaware, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The park's 933 acres encompass rolling meadows, dense forests, and the Brandywine Creek itself, offering a diverse landscape for exploration and recreation. Originally part of the du Pont family's Winterthur estate, the land was purchased by the state in 1965 and later expanded in 1981. The du Ponts used the property as a dairy farm, and remnants of this past can be seen in the picturesque stone walls that crisscross the park, constructed by Italian masons in the late 1800s. These walls, made of blue gneiss stone, are a defining feature of the park and a testament to the region's Piedmont geology. Brandywine Creek State Park is home to Delaware's first two nature preserves: Tulip Tree Woods and Freshwater Marsh. Tulip Tree Woods boasts towering 190-year-old tulip poplars, while Freshwater Marsh is a haven for diverse plant and animal life. The park also includes Flint Woods, an old-growth forest and a sanctuary for rare songbirds. Visitors can explore over 14 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The East Coast Greenway Trail passes through the park, offering a connection to a vast trail network stretching from Maine to Florida. Other notable trails include the Brandywine Trail, which follows the creek, and the Rocky Run Trail. In winter, the park's rolling hills become popular for sledding and cross-country skiing. Brandywine Creek itself provides opportunities for fishing and canoeing. The park also features a nature center that offers educational programs, guided tours, and birding activities. Whether you're seeking a peaceful nature walk, a challenging bike ride, or a glimpse into Delaware's history, Brandywine Creek State Park offers something for everyone.

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