Fort Delaware State Park

Star4.40
15 reviews
P.O. BOX 170, DELAWARE CITY, Delaware, 19706, United States

Quick Facts

3 ft

Price

$12/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Opens Fort Delaware State Park site

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Fort Delaware State Park
$12.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The ferry fee is $12 per person, which covers transport to the island and entry to the fort. Additional charges may apply for reservable pavilion.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Reserve America
Provider
302-834-7941
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What Campers Say

4.40

Recommended

Based on 15 reviews

192 Google reviews

Most mentioned

stafffriendly

"User reviews highlight the park's well-preserved historical significance and the engaging reenactments performed by staff. Many visitors appreciate the unique ferry ride to Pea Patch Island."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

P.O. BOX 170, DELAWARE CITY, Delaware, 19706, United States

Fort Delaware State Park

P.O. BOX 170, DELAWARE CITY, Delaware, 19706, United States

Driving directionsFort Delaware State Park is located on Pea Patch Island. To reach the island, you must take a ferry from 45 Clinton St., Delaware City, Delaware 19706.
Pea Patch Island is accessible only by ferry, and private boats are not permitted to dock at the island. The ferry does not operate during thunder/lightning events, high winds, or unfavorable sea conditions.
Nearby supplies
Park merchandise, light snacks, and drinks are available at Delaware City ticket shop and Sutler Shop on Pea Patch Island. Additional restaurants and shops are located around Delaware City.

Best Time to Camp at Fort Delaware State Park

Experience the dramatic seasonal shifts that shaped life at the fort throughout history. Winter brings crisp, cold days perfect for contemplative walks along the ramparts, while summer transforms the island into a warm, humid refuge where cooling river breezes offer relief. The generally dry conditions and moderate winds make outdoor exploration comfortable for most of the year, though summer visitors should prepare for the characteristic Delaware Valley mugginess.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer is ideal for birdwatching and outdoor demonstrations, per overview and reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Fall includes popular ghost tours and seasonal programs, offering good visit value.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring is noted as ideal for birdwatching and outdoor demonstrations.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Winter offers crisp walks and rampart views but fewer programs and lower draw.

Planning Tips

    About Fort Delaware State Park

    Step aboard the ferry to Pea Patch Island and journey back to one of the Civil War's most haunting chapters at Fort Delaware State Park. Rising from the waters of the Delaware River, this imposing 1859 fortress once held thousands of Confederate prisoners within its massive walls. Today, costumed interpreters bring history to life through vivid reenactments, while the island's remote marshlands whisper tales of resilience and survival against the backdrop of pristine wetland wilderness.
    The campground includes a single reservable pavilion and is not designed for primitive, RV, or tent camping.
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    Amenities available

    Picnic tables
    Group Sites

    Activities you can enjoy

    The park offers a variety of educational and recreational activities. Historical reenactments and demonstrations are a central draw, featuring costumed actors who bring Civil War history to life. There are also nature-focused activities such as hiking on Pea Patch Island with opportunities for birdwatching.
    HikingA nature trail and observation platform allow visitors to experience the island's natural beauty and observe the wading bird nesting areas.
    BoatingAccess to the island is exclusively by ferry; private boats are not allowed to dock.
    Wildlife viewingPea Patch Island is home to nine species of herons, egrets, and ibis, making it a haven for birdwatchers and photographers.
    Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe park offers cultural programs such as Civil War reenactments, historical demonstrations, and films at the visitor center.
    Winter Activities
    Water Sports
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    Policies & Safety

    Hazards & AlertsThunderstorms, high winds, and unfavorable sea conditions can limit ferry operations.

    Weather at Fort Delaware State Park

    Reviews

    4.4
    15 reviews
    Recommended
    Recommended
    Fort Delaware State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
    User reviews highlight the park's well-preserved historical significance and the engaging reenactments performed by staff. Many visitors appreciate the unique ferry ride to Pea Patch Island.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 15 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Visitors frequently mention the knowledgeable and friendly staff, the authenticity of the historical reenactments, and the beautiful natural setting. Quotes like "staff are dressed in period clothing...
    Show more
    Based on 15 reviews

    Common Concerns

    There is no coffee shop on site, and visitors must take their trash with them. Some reviews mention the experience being a one-time visit rather than a recurring attraction.
    Based on 15 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Bring closed-toe shoes, a light jacket for cooler weather, and plan for a few hours to enjoy all the demonstrations. A picnic can be a nice addition to the day.
    Based on 15 reviews

    Seasonal Insights

    Spring and summer are noted as ideal seasons due to the natural birdwatching opportunities and outdoor demonstrations. Fall activities include special ghost tours, which are popular.
    Based on 15 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    "If you like history, then this is a nice day activity to do when the weather is decent." - Patty Hedges. "The portrayals of life in this time are very authentic." - Layla Mahmoud. "The ferry and...
    Show more
    Based on 15 reviews

    Site-Specific Reviews

    Reviews are specific to the fort, nature trail, and ferry ride, as there are no individual camping sites.
    Based on 15 reviews

    Accessibility Features

    The ground floor of the fort is accessible, and service dogs are welcome.
    Based on 15 reviews

    Pet-Friendly Features

    Pets are not allowed, but service animals are an exception.
    Based on 15 reviews

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    Last updated January 13, 2026
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