Just an hour’s drive south of Dover, Trap Pond State Park is a 3600-acre recreation area that features a freshwater wetland that supports one of the last natural stands of baldcypress trees. The pond was created in the 1700s when it was dammed to provide power for the local sawmills that were harvesting the area’s old-growth timber. Once the trees were gone, the area was used as a drainage for the surrounding farmlands. Finally, in the 1930s, the state acquired the land and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) rehabilitated Trap Pond and surrounding woodland as a nature preserve and recreation space. This created Delaware’s first state park. It has since become a haven for herons, owls, woodpeckers and eagles, and a place where campers and recreationists can enjoy some outdoor time.

The campground at Trap Pond features 142 sites for tent and RV campers. Sites are set in five wooded loops: A, B, and C Loops have back-in sites with full hookups; D Loop has pull-through sites with full hookups; E Loop has primitive, walk-in tent sites. Each site is equipped with picnic tables and fire rings with grills. All camp loops have access to bathhouses with showers, restrooms, laundry facilities, and trash and recycling receptacles; a dump station is available near the campground entrance. The campground also has a picnic pavilion and kids’ playground between A and B Loops. The park also offers several rustic cabins and a couple yurts. Dogs are permitted, but must remain leashed. Campsite rates are $15–$25; cabin and yurt rates are $40–$52; reservations accepted. 

The nature center at Trap Pond is a good place to start a visit to the park. Interpretive exhibits and nature programs provide information about the history of the wetlands, as well as its flora and fauna. Once acquainted with the park, it’s time to hit the trails and water to discover more and enjoy the natural setting. More than 10 miles of multi-use trails invite hikers, bikers and horseback riders to explore the woods and wetlands. Paddlers can take to the ponds and explore 2.5 miles of water trails. Boat rentals are available in the park, as well as launches and docks for small watercraft. For anglers, common catches in the ponds include pickerel, crappie, bluegill, and largemouth bass. Visitors can also play at the sports courts or disc golf course, or take in bird-watching for waterfowl, songbirds, and raptors.

Trap Pond State Park Campground

**Ranger Review: HeadSpin Convertible Light System at Trap Pond State Park**

**Campground Review:** 

We enjoy camping in the off or shoulder season more than peak because the campgrounds are quieter, however, sometimes this means we cannot enjoy the full amenities a place has to offer. At Trap Pond, we missed being able to rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboat by a week. Free bike rentals were still available (donations accepted) so we were able to take a ride around the pond (about 4.5 miles). There are four loops plus cabins and yurts. All sites appeared level and some have a view of the pond. Bathhouses were very clean, including the showers. When we were there, they were delivering a new bath and shower facility to one of the loops. Although I did not check it out, there is also a laundry facility. The camp staff was extremely friendly and helpful and there is also a small store for t-shirts and essentials. We only stayed for one night but would definitely consider returning at a time when we could rent a boat to be able to see the Cypress trees up close.

  

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**Product Review: **

As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I have the awesome opportunity to occasionally test products. At this campground, we tested the **[HeadSpin Convertible Light System by Headspin Outdoors.](https://www.headspinoutdoors.com/buy-headspin/?utm_source=Google&amp;utm_medium=ppc&amp;utm_campaign=headspin%20branded&amp;gclid=EAIaIQobChMIysWPoYm_5QIVAuiGCh0x4QxSEAAYAiAAEgJWyvD_BwE)** The first thing I noticed when I unboxed my HeadSpin was how compactly it was fit into its semi-hard, zippered carrying case. That said, however, if packing space is at a premium, you may want to decide which elements you want to use before taking a trip to reduce what you pack. Although intuitive to figure out how to use, there were no instructions (maybe missing from mine?). Because of this, I was not sure when the unit was fully charged (the green light was flashing and did not change to solid, but the unit seemed to be charged). We travel in a campervan, so we have USB and electric charging capabilities while camped but if you are tent camping, make sure everything is charged before you leave home (or, if you are driving a distance to your campground, you can charge it in your car using the USB port). Assuming the flashing green light indicates it is charged, this process did not take very long. 

  

There is one light that can be attached to three base options: flashlight, headlamp, and bicycle mount. There are three light strength options, as well as a wide or narrow beam, and a strobe setting. The light is attached via magnets and I found it very easy to attach and detach the light from the different mounts. We also used the light as a stand-alone magnetic mount on our van door and on the metal lantern post; making the magnet system very versatile.

  

I have a favorite flashlight I have used for over 10 years, so it was going to take a lot to convince me to change. I was very pleased with the HeadSpin flashlight– it is very lightweight and easy to hold, however, a strap would be helpful. My husband thought the strap was necessary since the handle was so slender (this was a plus for my smaller hands!). Also, there was a warning in the packaging about how strong the light is and not to place it face down while on. Because of the design of the flashlight, I would likely have done this, so this warning was good to include. 

  

We had recently used headlamps on a guided trip and had considered buying them to add to our supplies, so I eagerly looked forward to trying this one out. Although it worked fine, it was a bit bulkier/heavier than the headlamp I recently used. I used it to go to the restroom and to cook dinner and wash dishes in the dark; the more I used it, the more comfortable I became with it. 

  

We don’t travel/camp with bicycles, so we were not able to try this mount. I rarely bike at night (if I can help it!) so not sure I would use this option, but it is a good addition, as I know many do bike in the dark. 

  

Overall, I really liked giving the HeadSpin a try. I loved the flashlight, and the packaging is top-rate, however, it is pricey, so it is an investment. Picking up a battery-operated flashlight to find the batteries were dead would convince me it is worth the price! I think campers who like gadgets will like this product very much.

Beautiful Delaware scenery

Trap Pond is wonderful, we camp there a lot. It's great for kayaking and canoeing, freshwater fishing, birding, biking and hiking. There are miles of well maintained trails for bicycles, and free bike rentals from the campground bike shed. There are also loads of well marked water trails, one of which leads to a really nice cypress swamp with active beaver dam. Pontoon boat tours and kayak and canoe rentals are available for a reasonable fee. There is a nice play area for children in the campground that's just been upgraded, and a larger one across the pond in the public area. A lovely nature center is available for visiting during the day at no charge. It's fairly quiet and great for families and children.

Campsites are wooded and well kept, with fire rings and picnic tables at each, and there are a range of scheduled activities for all ages from free to a small fee. Staff and volunteer hosts are friendly and courteous, and there is a camp store and laundry facilities. Bath houses, while a bit dated, are kept clean and neat. Pets are welcome. Cabins and Yurts are available, (And adorable).

Lovely, well run, affordable state park campground.

We were able to get a yurt as a walk up after the office closed thanks to the help of a kind staff member. The yurt was cozy and had a waterfront view of the pond. They fit up to 5 people and are air conditioned, but you’ll need your own sheets, pillow, &amp; blankets! The campground was well kept with some trails, views of the pond all around, a small play ground, several bath houses, and an activity spot with cornhole and ladder ball set up. Pets are allowed except in the cabins and yurts.

If you like privacy the cabins and yurts provide plenty of it, and they do offer secluded island tent spots as well. The Reginald spots were a bit open and close to gether but they had electric and non electric available. There were canoe and kayak rentals for $10 an hour. Overall a fun place for the family. The only reason I gave it a 4 outta 5 is the fact that the bathrooms and showers were a bit dirty but other than that it was a great stay!!!

Yurt getaway!!

We love this campground, it is one of our favorites. On one side of the lake is the campground and the other is a park with paddle boats and canoes

This is a real peaceful campground

This is a beautiful campground. Rent both island sites for an amazing camping experience!

Beautiful Campground!

For this visit, I stayed in one of their two yurts. The views were just gorgeous.

The yurts have a bunk bed with a queen mattress on the bottom and a twin on top, as well as a futon that folds out into a queen. The bunks were very comfortable, but the futon was so hard we didn't even use it to sit on. The yurts also have electricity, heat and air, and are well equipped with other items such as: a trash can, broom and dustpan, standing lamp, two chairs, two small tables, a fire extinguisher, and two fly swatters.

The views should be the huge selling point of this campground. When you walk out of the yurt, you walk onto your own raised wooden deck to beautiful views of Trap Pond. There are plenty of trees around for shade, but not so many that you can't enjoy the view. The trees also seclude you somewhat from your neighbors in the cabins, but you could interact if you wish.

The closest restrooms to the cabin and yurt area are port-a-potties but they are currently prepping to build a bath house in this area.

The cabins and yurts are walk up and wheelbarrows are provided. The walk is also pretty close. There is no running water, but there is a centrally located water pump.

The campground offers a lot to do and quite a bit of it is free: free bike rentals, free horseshoes and ladder ball, two huge playground area and a nature center. They also have boat rentals and a boat tour available.

We will definitely be visiting again!

Beautiful views and quiet campground

I’ve only ever camped here in the spring. Summertime will be extra buggy so bring spray. If you own a kayak  or a canoe you have to bring it. Getting out on the pond and being one with the  bald cypress is amazing! You can roll in with your RV, tent camp, or rent  a cabin or a yurt. Our last visit here we stayed in a cabin and it was so much fun. It’s a little on the small side and the mattress was less than stellar, but we didn’t mind at all. It’s a perfect little shelter for when you’re not outside enjoying all the beautiful nature. I highly recommend checking it out.

A Hidden Delaware Gem 

My first time visiting TPSP. The site is gorgeous throughout. The camp store is small but has everything that you need. Personnel were warm and friendly, very helpful for a first timer... spent some time chatting with them. I stayed at a tent site. The tent sites are walk in only but parking is not very far. The site provided hand trucks and wheelbarrows for you to car your items into your site. I had brought my own wagon which was helpful in keeping some of my gear off the ground during a rain storm. The site I stayed at was clean, level and well appointed; a t bar for hanging trash or a shower pack. Fire pit with grill. The tent sites are far enough from each other that you are not disturbed by neighbors, lots of trees between sites. There are water pumps every few yards, some are a Bit tricky to get working but I did not have an issue. The campground has trash and recycling bins so you do not have to carry out. I checked out some of the drive in and RV sites. They are large and well maintained, good for camper or tent camping, although fewer trees separate you from adjacent spots, so if you’re interested in more privacy opt for a tent site. The weekend I stayed we had torrential rain for about six hours but my site did not flood. Be sure to bring a large enough footprint to account for rain however, as I needed to really clean my tent and fly when I got home due to splash back of mud and leaves. Thee bathhouse was clean and the playground looked pretty good as well. Hoping that for my return trip the new bathhouse bear the tent sites is completed. If you’re not keen on using port a Johns or hiking to the bathhouse near the camper sites I suggest bringing a travel composting toilet. I hiked the full Bob Trail which is breathtaking. Easy level hike that winds all around the park and connects to the campground. I also rented a kayak for about three hours and was able to travel the full pond and connecting Terrapin Trail and back. The recreation area(where you rent boats and kayaks) has a nice picnic area and playground. I have camped at Henlopen State Park in the past and can say that TPSP is my new favorite in delaware. I enjoyed my time so much that I am already booked to return in late September and again in early November.

First time 

My sons and I spent four nights on the island site and loved it. We lucked out and had both sites to ourselves which I recommend. I couldn’t imagine sharing the secluded site with strangers. We set up our hammocks on the edge of the water. We walked around the pond and rented boats and kayaks for the day and rowed back to our site which the kids loved. They got to spend the day learning to paddle on the pond. The camp ground has a small store however they close early, so make sure to stock up on wood and ice before they close. They also had a bike shed where you can sign out bikes for free for the day which was super neat. They also have wheelbarrows to borrow so if you have a drive up site you can use them. While we were there they were building a new bath house near the island and cabin sites otherwise porter potties were there. The location is great. We took a day and drove to assateague island which was about an hour. All and all we loved the location we loved watching all the different birds and seeing so many stars. The people were all very nice. We look forward to coming back soon. Oh and if you stay at the island site make sure to be nice to the resident squirrel !!! 

Beautiful place to relax

We went here right before everything was closed down. We had a pull thru spot which all were in loop D. Site 25 was perfect for our 22ft. Site 23 was perfect for our siblings 25 ft. Sites were far apart but not shielded from each other. No growth between sites. 25 is the end site so we had on one on one side. There is a big playground, bathhouse, docks into pond on each loop, hiking trails, a pavilion, and free bike rentals. We’re going back in the fall and staying in C loop in a back in site that faces the pond. I can’t wait!

Peaceful

Sites are fairly spacious and have an interesting semi-circle pull through layout so backing in not required. They are not level and have a sandy base so it took a bit of work to finally get the rig level, even with auto-levelers. There are a short to moderate hiking trails and the pond is popular for kayaks. Being near the water means the bugs really came out at night so make sure to turn off the outside lights after dark. Sites have 30A electric and water with a nearby convenient dump station.

Very nice state park

We were only able to stay one night here, but I guarantee we’ll be back to enjoy all this place has to offer. There are multiple trails (red is the longest), a disc golf course, and of course, the pond for water activities. Our campsite was quite spacious  even with two cars in the lot.

So much to do at this park

I am a Delawarean at heart, and number one on my list of favorite Delaware parks is Trap Pond. The tent and RV sites are clean, but not so much that it feels unnatural. The cypress trees are truly a sight to behold, and the pond itself is breathtaking to paddle through. The staff are incredibly kind, lighthearted, and cheery. Make no mistake—you absolutely should come visit this amazing state park!

A Delaware must-see

Love this DE state park! 5 different loops. One for all tenting, loop E. One with all pull-through sites, loop D. Three with back in spots, loops A-C. If you want quiet, stay in loop D.  This was a full weekend and a bit crowded. We had an end site facing the pond (C 20).  Very level sites BUT a lot of trees in the way when parking your RV. Most spots have tight areas to maneuver into with trees and hookup posts on either side. We saw several we couldn’t believe they parked without hitting a tree. Lots of trails to hike and boat rentals; canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, pontoon boat, and I think a row boat. It’s located in lower DE near the MD line. There’s a walkway between all loops to connect them and easily walkable. Has electric and water hookups. 

Excellent Weekend

Beautiful location, very clean bathhouse, easy in and out. Great trails, pond, fishing and kayaking.  Can't wait to go back!

Wonderful Experience 

Awesome family camp ground the kids loved it. We stayed in A7. fishing boating biking the beach is close by.

Awesome place

Trap Pond is beautiful; the sites have a picnic table and a fire ring and are plentiful. The bathhouses are nice and they have a handicap accessible shower and bathroom stall- the only complaint I have about the bathhouse is that there was no fan to draw out the shower heat/humidity (we were in C loop, not sure if they’re all like this?). The staff are very friendly. Also, wouldn’t recommend buying their fire wood- not good. Trails are nice. All in all, I’d go back! 

Enjoyed this campground! 

The park is amazing.  the bike trails and kayaking trails are great.   kayaking through thenald cypress swamp is a unique experience.  campground store is worth checking out.  sites are water and electric within easy reach.   everything is sand.   sites all seemed Level.  cell provider Verizon had great signal.  didn't go in bath houses.   

you are less than an hour from the ocean, so day trips from here are a breeze.  other comments said sites were tight to back in, but I didn't think they were tight (33' TT).


wonderful campground but sites are close together

The site I was in A34 is a little more secluded. The kids yelling and dogs barking ruined my peace and quiet. Once they left it was much better. Park has a nice lake and you can rent kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats. There is a pontoon tour of the lake that is nice and tells of the history of the Cypress farms. You can hike or bike the trails and there is a small nature center. 

Ok campground

Last family trip of the year and it didn’t disappoint. We stayed in site D25 again just as we did 2 yrs ago. It’s a pull through site as are all sites in loop D. This is pet friendly and has electric and water. Dump station is across from loop D.  There are 5 loops with Loop E being tent and cabins/hurts only. That Loop also has island tent sites. We couldn’t walk into that area. Each loop or area has its own bathhouse which appear to all be individual family style bathrooms. 

The layout of the sites in loop D is not typical. All sites in this loop are pull through and parallel to the road, so the left drivers side of your camper faces the road and the right side faces your camp area. If you stay in an inside loop site you will be facing the camper on the other side of the loop. For instance D11 and D14 face each other. The distance between sites across the loop isn’t huge or blocked by any foliage but didn’t seem to be an issue for our friends who stayed in D24. If you stay on the outside of the loop you will either face the woods (higher numbered sites) or loop C through the trees ( lower numbered sites). Our site is pretty level as are most sites. This is Delaware which is flat land. 

The one issue with most every site are the trees. Most every site has a tree to watch out for.  Other loops are all back in sites and many of those have trees to keep an eye on as well. This is a shaded campground. At the end of each loop is a pier on the pond which is large and beautiful. There are playgrounds in each loop and bike rentals at the camp store. 

The tent area is walk in but they provide wheelbarrows or carts to haul your stuff.  These sites are very private and well spaced off the walk-in path and from each other. The cabins and yurts are also walk-in but again you have the use of carts. Some of the cabins are facing the pond and offer gorgeous views. 

There is a primitive group camp area complete with bathhouse, screened in pavilion, open air pavilion, numerous picnic tables, horseshoe and volleyball courts and sits at the point so the views of the pond are plentiful. 

There is a disc golf course within walking distance and the weekend we were there a competition was happening. There is a day use area with boat rentals and lots of trails for hikers or horses to use. 

The town of Laurel nearby has a few stores. I found This and That Country Store which was so cute. The owner was super nice. The beach areas of Delaware are not too far away if you want a beach day. 

This has become one of our favorite campgrounds in DE. 

Favorite DE campground 

Trap Pond is well rounded. Has distinct areas for tents, car camping and trailers, as well as RVs. Signs are clear and easy to find your way around.  The picnic tables at each site are brand new. Also, obvious signs of land management and planting of new, diverse trees. 

We’ll rounded place to camp

Stayed in Yurt 1 waterfront. It may be the most beautiful campsite I’ve had the pleasure of staying at. Stayed in early June. There was plenty of tree cover, and the breeze coming off the pond was wonderful. It was such a lovely surprise. The Yurt had electric and AC! Big cozy inside with a small table and two beds. There is water Spicket￼s close by and the bathrooms are close as well. It’s nice that the cabin area is walk-in only so no worries about loud trucks all times of day.  The bathrooms are shared individual and free clean showers!! There is a park and boat launches everywhere. DO NOT MISS OUT ON THE HIKING! Such beautiful trails all over. Could spend a whole weekend doing a separate trail each day. Long and short ones. 

Excellent Time

Camp store is well stocked with essentials and extras (fishing licenses are not sold but can be purchased online).  Facilities are clean.  Showers have water saver flow.  Sites with water benefit from a water filter attachment at the source.  Park has playgrounds for kids.  Boat rental and other services can be seasonal so best to check in advance.

Well maintained state park

This campground was wonderful for our family of 5 with 6. 4 and 2 year old boys.  The setting is wooded with great shade and a very peaceful pond backdrop.  We stayed in loop A, and found that A and B loops are the place to be if you have young children- the playground is awesome and is sandwiched between them.  The loops get progressively quieter as you go towards E.  All sites are great, but the best ones are definitely the ones closest to the pond.  We really enjoyed the pontoon boat ride- this is definitely not a typical pond! The cypress trees are stunning and the history there alone is definitely worth the price of admission, not to mention the otherworldly narrow passages through cypress swaps and all kinds of wildlife on display.  The trail around the campground goes through nice pine forests and crosses the swampland and pond.  It is smooth stone dust, great for foot travel or any kind of biking.  The sites are not huge but spaced well.  Important to note- this pond is NOT for swimming.  Very shallow and lots of trees just under the surface.  If you are kid free or have older kids, they have kayaks for rent and I would highly recommend taking a paddle across the pond and deep into the water trails through the cypress forest. Magical.  The camp store is fantastic.  The sites are dirt/grass and not full hookup, but they have two dumpstations on the way out.  Our site was nice because it had trail access and only one neighbor.  Be forewarned that there are ticks here, the tiny dangerous kind.... we found some on us, so just check thoroughly.  Overall a great place!

4.6 stars

Just wow. We made an impromptu visit and camping trip. The walk-in tent sites are BEAUTIFUL!! It’s really great to be able to set up camp and be in nature without the sound of someone charging their phone or blowing up their mattress in the site next to you. All the wall in tent sites on loop E are HUGE!! You can easily fit two tents plus all the glamping extras! The bathrooms are short walk away and are lovely. Clean and big with free showers. The wheelbarrows provided are great for the drop off of equipment. The first night it rained (literal buckets). The site was under 3 inches of water within a half hour!! Once the rain stopped though the puddles were gone just as fast! The hiking is always beautiful and easy to access. The flat trails are wide and loop across to the national park side. The camp store is also a huge plus! They have everything you need for emergency’s and then some! The bikes, ice, and firewood are easy to access. The only complaint is that although there is boating a place to cool off was missed greatly. A pool or splash pad would make a great addition to an almost perfect campground! An added note, during the storm a branch from a tree became loose and we went to the check in to let them know. They gave us expedited care. The checked out the tree and decided for our safety we needed to change sites. They were able to give us a new site right away and even offered to help move us!! Customer camper care is definitely number 1! 

Beautiful as always

We had a great experience at Trap Pond. Price was reasonable. D Loop sites were a good size. Comes with a fire ring and picnic table. Site wasn't super level, so just bring enough leveling blocks if you're in a camper. D14 specifically is the last site on the row with an unobstructed view of the pond- we loved it. All sites in D loop had great tree coverage. It was also right near the showers, which were clean &amp; warm, just what was needed. Tent sites are more secluded and are walk-in; our buddies tent camped the same weekend. There was a dock within walking distance of our site. Canoes were available for rent &amp; I highly recommend canoeing water trails through the beautiful Cypress trees. No sewer connects, but there are 2 dump stations and we didn't wait long at the dump station heading out on a Sunday in July. Camp store has all the necessities, yet still simple. Free concerts at the nature center every Saturday in the summer. Nice walking/hiking trails around the grounds also. Dog friendly was a plus!! Lots of dogs were on leads at campsites including ours. 

Quiet, natural simplicity  

This place is simply amazing. Nothing negative about it, just go and experience for yourself 

Best of the best 

Our second time staying here.  Spacious campsites in the D loop with half-circle drive in. Clean bath houses and facilities. 

  

Decent walking trails around the lake.  Lots of water activities in you're into that.

  

Camp store has the basics plus a few extras.  Firewood for sale at reasonable price.