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Brandywine Creek State Park: A Piedmont Gem

Explore rolling meadows, hike scenic trails, and discover historic stone walls at this natural oasis near Wilmington, Delaware.

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Escape to Brandywine Creek State Park, a sprawling natural oasis just north of Wilmington, Delaware. This former du Pont estate features rolling meadows, historic stone walls, and over 14 miles of trails perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring the beauty of the Piedmont region.

A brief summary to Brandywine Creek State Park

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the park's extensive trail system.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially during hawk migration season (mid-September to mid-November).
  • Visit the Brandywine Creek Nature Center for guided tours and natural history programs.
  • Check the park's website for upcoming events, such as photography wagon rides and volunteer opportunities.
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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. Turn left onto Mt. Lebanon Road, then right at the bottom of the hill. Cross the bridge and bear right; the park entrance is on the right. From Prices Corner/Newark, take Kirkwood Highway to Route 141 North, then Route 100 North. Turn right onto Adams Dam Road; the park entrance is on the left. Parking is available in designated lots. Expect to pay an entrance fee of $4 for Delaware residents and $8 for non-residents, in effect from March 1 to November 30.

  • Public Transport

    DART First State provides bus service in the Wilmington area. Check DART's website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules to reach the park's vicinity. From the bus stop, you may need to walk or take a short taxi or ride-share to the park entrance. A one-way bus fare is $2. Exact change is required. Taxis or ride-shares from central Wilmington to the park entrance typically cost between $17 and $28, depending on distance and demand.

  • Walking

    While walking to Brandywine Creek State Park is possible, it's best suited for those already in the immediate area due to the park's location outside of Wilmington. From nearby points, follow Adams Dam Road to the park entrance. Be aware that there may not be sidewalks available for the entire route.

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Discover more about Brandywine Creek State Park

Brandywine Creek State Park, a 933-acre haven three miles north of Wilmington, Delaware, offers a scenic escape into the state's Piedmont region. Once part of the du Pont family's Winterthur estate, the park's landscape is defined by rolling meadows, lush forests, and distinctive blue gneiss stone walls built in the late 1800s. The park's history is intertwined with the du Pont family, who used the land for agriculture and grazing. William Poole Bancroft, a dedicated land conservationist, also played a crucial role in preserving the area's natural beauty. Today, visitors can explore over 14 miles of trails, including sections of the East Coast Greenway Trail, and discover the state's first two nature preserves: Tulip Tree Woods and Freshwater Marsh. Tulip Tree Woods boasts towering, 190-year-old tulip poplars, while Freshwater Marsh teems with diverse plant and animal life. Brandywine Creek State Park provides a variety of recreational opportunities throughout the year. Hike or bike along scenic trails, fish for bass and trout, or enjoy a picnic amidst the rolling meadows. In winter, the park's hilly terrain offers opportunities for sledding and cross-country skiing. The Brandywine Creek Nature Center offers educational programs and guided tours, enhancing the visitor experience. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, including native pollinators, ground-nesting birds, and various songbirds.

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