Cape Henlopen State Park, The Coastal Plain Travel Guide

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Discover pristine beaches, historic Fort Miles, and endless outdoor activities at Delaware's Cape Henlopen State Park. A coastal treasure for all ages.

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Cape Henlopen State Park

Cape Henlopen State Park, located in Lewes, Delaware, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. With its pristine beaches, diverse ecosystems, and remnants of Fort Miles from World War II, the park provides a rich experience for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

A brief summary to Cape Henlopen State Park

15099 Cape Henlopen Dr, Lewes, Delaware, 19958, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cape Henlopen State Park.

Visit the Fort Miles Historical Area to explore World War II bunkers and learn about the park's military history.
Take advantage of the Borrow-a-Bike program at the Seaside Nature Center for a free two-hour bike ride on the park's trails.
Bring binoculars for bird watching, especially during the spring and fall migrations.
Check the park's website for upcoming programs and events, such as dolphin watching tours and guided hikes.
Be prepared for entrance fees: $5/day for Delaware vehicles, $10/day for out-of-state vehicles, charged from March 1 to November 30.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

First State National Historical Park

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Johnson Victrola Museum

Fort Miles Historical Area

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Explore Cape Henlopen State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cape Henlopen State Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From Lewes, follow Cape Henlopen Drive north. The park entrance is approximately 1 mile past the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal. Parking is available throughout the park, including near the beaches, Fort Miles, and the Seaside Nature Center. Parking is included after paying the park entrance fee. Keep in mind that during peak season, parking lots can fill up quickly. Daily pass: $5/day for Delaware vehicles, $10/day for out of state vehicles.
Public Transport

The DART First State Bus Route 204 stops at the DRBA Ferry Terminal. From the terminal, it's approximately a 50-minute walk (4226 yards) to Cape Henlopen State Park. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service from the ferry terminal to the park entrance. Bus fare is approximately $2-$4. Taxi/rideshare could cost $15-$25 for the short trip.
Ferry

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry connects Cape May, New Jersey, with Lewes, Delaware. From the Lewes Ferry terminal, Cape Henlopen State Park is a short drive or bus ride away. The ferry ride is approximately 85 minutes. The base ticket price for a pedestrian is around $10-$12. Additional fees apply for vehicles.

Discover more about Cape Henlopen State Park

Cape Henlopen State Park, a 5,450-acre park in Sussex County, Delaware, stands where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. This unique location has been a point of interest for centuries, dating back to 1682 when William Penn declared the beaches public land for the citizens of Lewes and Sussex County. Officially becoming a state park in 1964, Cape Henlopen has a long history of public use and military importance.The park's history is rich with stories from Native American use of the land to its strategic role in numerous wars, including the American Revolution, the War of 1812, and both World Wars. During World War II, the U.S. Army constructed Fort Miles within the park, featuring bunkers, observation towers, and gun batteries to defend against potential German invasions. Today, visitors can explore these historical remnants, including Battery 519 and the Fort Miles Museum.Cape Henlopen offers a diverse range of activities. Visitors can enjoy six miles of shoreline for sunbathing, swimming, and fishing. The park also features a 24-hour fishing pier. Miles of trails wind through various habitats, including maritime forests, dunes, and wetlands, perfect for hiking and biking. The Seaside Nature Center offers educational exhibits, a touch tank, and a Borrow-a-Bike program. Bird watching is popular, especially at the Hawk Watch. Camping is available year-round with options for RVs, tents, and cabins.The park is dedicated to conservation, protecting critical habitats for a variety of wildlife, including shorebirds and horseshoe crabs. Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve, the only publicly-owned wild beach in Delaware, provides a unique opportunity to explore dune and marsh habitats. Cape Henlopen State Park is open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset.