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White Clay Creek State Park, Carpenter Recreation Area

Explore scenic trails, enjoy outdoor recreation, and discover the natural beauty of White Clay Creek State Park's Carpenter Recreation Area in Newark, DE.

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Nestled near Newark, Delaware, White Clay Creek State Park's Carpenter Recreation Area offers a diverse landscape for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 37 miles of trails, the park is a haven for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers seeking a refreshing escape.

A brief summary to White Clay Creek State Park, Carpenter Recreation Area

Local tips

  • Bring comfortable shoes and plenty of water to explore the park's extensive trail system.
  • Check the park's event calendar for summer concerts and other activities at the Carpenter Recreation Area.
  • Be prepared to pay an entrance fee between March 1st and November 30th.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Carpenter Recreation Area entrance is located approximately two miles northwest of Newark, DE, on Route 896. From the intersection of DE-896 and Cleveland Avenue in Newark, proceed north on DE-896 for about 2.5 miles. The park entrance will be on your right. Continue to the far section of the parking lot. Parking fee is $4 for Delaware registered vehicles and $8 for out-of-state vehicles, in effect from March 1 to November 30.

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Discover more about White Clay Creek State Park, Carpenter Recreation Area

White Clay Creek State Park, particularly the Carpenter Recreation Area, provides a diverse and scenic escape in northern Delaware. Named for the clay once mined in the area, the park encompasses natural vistas, woodlands, and the White Clay Creek, a designated National Wild and Scenic River. The Carpenter Recreation Area is a hub of activity within the park, offering a range of recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore over 37 miles of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and running. The trails vary in difficulty, catering to both beginners and experienced outdoor enthusiasts. The area also features a popular 18-hole disc golf course that meanders through wooded sections. Beyond its recreational offerings, White Clay Creek State Park has a rich history. In the mid-20th century, there were proposals to dam the White Clay Creek to create a reservoir. However, community opposition and the efforts of conservationists led to the preservation of the creek and the establishment of the park. The park was initially named Walter S. Carpenter Jr. State Park in honor of a former president of DuPont, before being renamed White Clay Creek State Park in 1995. Today, the park serves as a vital protected area, offering a natural retreat from urban development.

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