Blackbird State Forest, The Dover Metropolitan Area Travel Guide

4.7 (178)

Explore Delaware's natural beauty: hiking, camping, and history await at Blackbird State Forest, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Blackbird State Forest, Delaware's northernmost state forest, offers over 6,000 acres of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Established in 1948, it features diverse trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, along with camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing, providing a peaceful escape from city life.

A brief summary to Blackbird State Forest

502 Blackbird Forest Rd, Smyrna, Delaware, 19977, US
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Monday 7 am-6 pm
Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
Thursday 7 am-6 pm
Friday 7 am-6 pm
Saturday 7 am-6 pm
Sunday 7 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Blackbird State Forest.

Check the Delaware Forest Service website for hunting season schedules and wear bright colors if hiking during those times.
Bring a compass or GPS, as signage within the forest is minimal.
Camping is available at designated primitive campsites, but permits are required and reservations may be needed.
Fishing is catch-and-release only.
Stop by Helen's Famous Sausage House, near the forest, for a local culinary experience.

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Explore Blackbird State Forest on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Blackbird State Forest, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From Smyrna, Delaware, head north on US-13. Turn right onto Blackbird Forest Road. Continue for approximately 2 miles; the Blackbird State Forest headquarters and Tybout Tract entrance will be on your left. Parking is free. Be aware that some roads within the forest may be closed to vehicular traffic.
Public Transport

While there is no direct public transportation to Blackbird State Forest, you can take a DART First State bus to Smyrna and then a taxi or ride-sharing service to the forest. A taxi from Smyrna Transit Center to the forest entrance will cost approximately $20-$30. Check DART First State schedules and fares for bus routes to Smyrna.

Discover more about Blackbird State Forest

Blackbird State Forest, located on the border of New Castle and Kent Counties, stands as Delaware's northernmost state forest, encompassing over 6,000 acres of diverse landscapes. Established in 1948 with the acquisition of the Tybout Tract, the forest has grown into a popular destination for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation.The forest boasts a rich history, with ties to the Underground Railroad, as Harriet Tubman may have traveled through the area, guiding freedom seekers to the north. Today, visitors can explore the same landscapes that once offered refuge to those escaping slavery.Blackbird State Forest features over 40 miles of trails, catering to hikers, runners, cyclists, and horseback riders. The Tybout Tract includes a 2,200-foot paved nature trail accessible to wheelchairs, ensuring that everyone can experience the forest's beauty. The Blackbird Education Center on the Meadows Tract offers educational programs and interactive displays, providing insights into forest ecology and management.Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including camping at primitive campsites, catch-and-release fishing, and wildlife viewing. The forest is home to diverse species, including songbirds, waterfowl, white-tailed deer, and beavers. Each season brings its own charm, from the vibrant wildflowers of spring to the colorful foliage of autumn.Long-range management plans for Blackbird State Forest focus on timber production, wildlife habitat enhancement, recreation, and protection of soil, water, wetlands, and endangered species.