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Cape Henlopen
Overview
Cape Henlopen State Park offers a unique coastal experience where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. This historic park covers over 5,000 acres of diverse landscape, including salt marshes, pine forests, and dramatic sand dunes. It is known for its blend of natural beauty and rich military history, making it a premier destination for those looking to explore the Mid-Atlantic coast in an RV. The park provides a serene atmosphere that emphasizes outdoor exploration over commercial entertainment.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in Lewes, DE, the park provides direct access to pristine beaches and the famous Walking Dunes. The landscape is defined by its shifting sands and coastal forests, offering a sense of seclusion despite being near popular resort towns. Travelers will appreciate the proximity to the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, which provides a scenic connection to New Jersey. The surrounding area is flat and bike-friendly, with well-maintained paths weaving through the coastal ecosystem.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground features over 150 sites, many of which offer electric and water hookups suitable for various RV sizes. While the park maintains a rustic feel, guests have access to modern bathhouses, a laundry facility, and a well-stocked camp store. For those traveling with bikes, the park is famous for its free bike rental program, allowing visitors to explore the extensive trail system. Large, paved pads help accommodate bigger rigs, though many sites are nestled among pine trees for privacy.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
History buffs can visit Fort Miles, a World War II coastal defense site located within the park boundaries. Nature lovers will enjoy the Gordon’s Pond Trail, which offers excellent birdwatching and views of the salt marshes. Fishing is a major draw here, with a dedicated fishing pier and drive-on beach access for permitted vehicles. Just outside the gates, the historic town of Lewes offers charming shops and dining, while the boardwalk at Rehoboth Beach is only a short drive away.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for nature enthusiasts and families who prefer an active, outdoor-focused vacation. It caters well to those who enjoy birding, hiking, and seaside relaxation without the noise of a traditional RV resort. Because of its historic sites and educational programs, it is also a great fit for travelers interested in local heritage. While big rigs can fit in specific loops, the park is best suited for those who appreciate a quiet, natural setting under a canopy of coastal pines.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Sasha Drummond
Went for a 5K run. It was a beautiful morning. The signs on how to get to the event were limited no one at the front or signs to state which way to go but overall it was a good time. The park was clean and quiet.
Ken Hagge
This is a campground for RVs and tents. They also have cabins available. They have a huge hike and bike trail. Beautiful. This is a WWII historical place that once was a military base. 🇺🇸 1.5 miles from the Atlantic Ocean.
Erica Molina-Potter
This a wonderful park! I want to highlight especially the Bike Barn where you can loan adult and kid bikes and helmets for free (donations appreciated!) and the staff is kind, friendly and eager help. The loop is 3 miles which you can easily bike with just a few moderate/gentle hills. A short walk from the Bike Barn is a fantastic playground which is partially shaded, with benches and picnic tables in the shade as well- a gift for parents with young kids. We can’t wait to come back! Oh and they have a water station where you can refill your water bottles!
Bryan Rupert
Cape Henlopen State Park is one of the best destinations in Delaware. The beaches are clean, wide, and perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or fishing. The trails are well-marked and offer great hiking and biking through dunes, forests, and marshes. The WWII observation towers and Fort Miles add interesting history to the visit. Restrooms and facilities were very clean and well-kept, and parking was easy with plenty of space. Wildlife is abundant—you can spot deer, birds, and more along the trails. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore nature, or learn some history, Cape Henlopen has it all.
Zachary Frieben
Came here with my wife during our 1-year anniversary trip 😊 Our entry wasn't the greatest, we didn't have any cash and the ranger seemed disappointed by this. She told us that we could go to the kiosk and it'd take "A minute and a half." No it doesn't 😂 Does she really think someone my age carries cash? 😂 But after that everything was cool! The observation tower you can climb up is neat and gives you a great view of the surrounding area. And just seeing the guns up close is crazy, they're so big! The beaches are nice too, though some of the sand was a little squishy for our tastes. And its a great spot to go birding if you're into that! We saw hundreds of birds here! Definitely worth a stop if you're visiting Delaware regardless of hobbies 👍🏻