Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Guided tours
No
Backcountry camping
No
Lodging
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Cape Henlopen State Park is located in upper Sussex County, Delaware, and it has beaches along both the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay, making it an ideal spot for hot summer days. The park also features a campground, a small trail system running through the dunes, a drive on beach, and lots of World War II history.

The Atlantic beach, if accessed from the main entrance to the park, is staffed with lifeguards from Memorial Day until Labor Day, though the beach remains open year round. With a proper pass, you can also drive your off-road vehicle directly onto certain sections of the beach, great for fishing or finding some privacy among the busy summer crowds.

During World War II, Cape Henlopen was the site of an active military installation, named Fort Miles. This base mainly served as a defensive position along the Eastern Seaboard and in the event of an attack would defend the entrance to the Delaware Bay. The fort is now an open-air museum within the park.

When visiting, be on the lookout for signs indicating portions of the beach being closed off, as some sensitive species of birds lay their nests along the shore.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

State Park Fee

Pros

Multiple beaches. Rich history. Lighthouse.

Cons

None.

Features

Campgrounds + Campsites
Showers
Amphitheater
Historically significant
Flushing toilets
Lighthouse
Bicycling
Potable water
Picnic tables
Covered picnic areas
Surfing
Fishing
Horseback riding
Bird watching
Wildlife

Site type

Full hookups

Location

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