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Brandywine Creek State Park: A Piedmont Gem

Explore rolling meadows, historic stone walls, and scenic trails at this northern Delaware state park, a former du Pont estate.

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Escape to Brandywine Creek State Park, a sprawling natural haven just north of Wilmington, Delaware. This former du Pont estate offers rolling meadows, scenic trails, and historic stone walls, perfect for outdoor adventures and nature lovers.

A brief summary to Brandywine Creek State Park

Local tips

  • Bring comfortable shoes for exploring the park's extensive trail system.
  • Visit the Brandywine Creek Nature Center for educational programs and guided tours.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park's open fields or at the picnic area.
  • Be sure to check out the pollinator garden to see native plants and insects.
  • Consider visiting in the fall to witness the hawk migration over the valley.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Brandywine Creek State Park is located approximately three miles north of Wilmington, Delaware. From I-95, exit onto 202 North and follow to Mt. Lebanon Rd. Turn left onto Mt. Lebanon Rd, then right at the second stop sign onto Adams Dam Rd. The park entrance is on the right. From Prices Corner/Newark, take Kirkwood Highway to Route 141 North, then Route 100 North. Turn right at the stop sign onto Adams Dam Rd. The park entrance is on the left. Parking is available in designated lots throughout the park. Seasonal entrance fees are in effect from March 1st to November 30th. Credit cards are accepted, but cash is only accepted when the Park Office is open. Parking is approximately 275 feet from the picnic area.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Brandywine Creek State Park, you can take a DART bus to a nearby location in Wilmington and then take a taxi or ride-sharing service to the park. Bus fares typically cost $2 per ride. A taxi or ride-share from Wilmington to the park will cost approximately $15-$25.

  • Walking

    From the intersection of DE-100 (Montchanin Rd) & DE-141 (Powder Mill Rd), take DE-100 (Montchanin Rd) north & proceed 2.1 mi. Turn right onto Adams Dam Rd. Then left at the park entrance. Stay right to reach the lot.

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Discover more about Brandywine Creek State Park

Brandywine Creek State Park, a 933-acre oasis in northern Delaware, offers a diverse landscape shaped by history and natural beauty. Originally part of the du Pont family's Winterthur estate, the land was purchased by the state in 1965 to preserve its scenic character and ecological heritage. The park's rolling meadows and lush forests showcase the Piedmont region's gentle slopes and hills. Visitors can explore over 14 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trails wind through diverse terrains, including old-growth forests, fields, and along the Brandywine Creek. Remnants of the park's past as a du Pont family dairy farm can be seen in the distinctive blue gneiss stone walls that crisscross the landscape. These walls, built by Italian masons in the late 1800s and early 1900s, once marked property lines and now add to the park's unique charm. Brandywine Creek State Park is also home to Delaware's first two nature preserves: Tulip Tree Woods and Freshwater Marsh. Tulip Tree Woods boasts a majestic stand of 190-year-old tulip poplars, while Freshwater Marsh provides habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. Birdwatchers will delight in the diverse ecosystems, with opportunities to spot American Kestrels, Blue Birds, and Eastern Meadowlarks. 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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