How much does camping cost at Trap Pond State Park?

Camping fees at Trap Pond State Park range from $35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Trap Pond State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Trap Pond State Park accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Trap Pond State Park before I book?

Yes! Trap Pond State Park has 14 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Trap Pond State Park?

Trap Pond State Park is open March 1 through November 30. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Trap Pond State Park?

Yes, Trap Pond State Park has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Trap Pond State Park?

Fire policies at Trap Pond State Park: Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings with grills available at each campsite.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Are dogs allowed at Trap Pond State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Trap Pond State Park. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Trap Pond State Park?

Trap Pond State Park offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store, Laundry. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Trap Pond State Park?

Popular activities at Trap Pond State Park include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Trap Pond State Park

4.54

138 reviews

15702 Goosenest Road, Laurel, DE 19956, United States

Top 21% in DEFall

Summer Destination

Featured in:Fall Camping Delaware#2 Spring Camping Delaware#2 Summer Camping Delaware#3

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

102 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Delaware State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

102 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Delaware State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Trap Pond State Park

$35.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Rates vary for Delaware residents versus non-residents. Entrance fees are in effect from March 1 through November 30. Camping fees are $35 per night,...

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Hookup Site Fee$35.00

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Provider

3028755153

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

15702 Goosenest Road, Laurel, DE 19956, United States

Trap Pond State Park

15702 Goosenest Road, Laurel, DE 19956, United States

Nearby places

Northfolk, VA - 145 miles

Salisbury, MD - 15 miles

Rehoboth Beach, DE - 35 miles

Dover, DE - 50 miles

Baltimore, MD/Washington, D.C. - 100 miles

Philadelphia, PA - 125 miles

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies including groceries and camping essentials are accessible in Laurel, DE, approximately 15 miles away. Larger markets are approximately a 12-minute drive from the park.

Driving directionsTrap Pond State Park is located at 15702 Goosenest Road, Laurel, DE 19956. Driving directions from nearby landmarks include: Northfolk, VA - 145 miles; Salisbury, MD - 15 miles; Rehoboth Beach, DE - 35 miles; Dover, DE - 50 miles; Baltimore, MD/Washington, D.C. - 100 miles; Philadelphia, PA - 125 miles. Clear signage is available at the entrance, and GPS navigation works reliably in the region.

The campground is easily accessible via paved roads, and the entrance is well-marked with clear signage. All side roads leading to the park are reportedly fine for larger vehicles, including 35-foot 5th wheels.

Weather at Trap Pond State Park

Best Time to Camp at Trap Pond State Park

Fall delivers the best conditions. Daytime highs run from the upper 50s to low 70s°F with crisp mornings ideal for paddling. Leaf color peaks in mid-to-late October, and mosquitoes finally back off after summer's humidity. Fishing and birding pick up as waterfowl arrive. Weekdays see light crowds; holiday weekends fill up. Spring through fall works well overall, with mild, dry days for water trails and forest hikes. Summer brings warm afternoons for swimming and pontoon rides. Winter temperatures hover between 30°F and 50°F. Cold enough for bracing hikes but still comfortable for camping if you layer up.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 21% in DE

Fall praised as best: peak leaf color, crisp mornings ideal for paddling; many positive comments.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: March 1 through November 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open year-round. Entrance fees are applicable from March 1 through November 30.

About Trap Pond State Park

Trap Pond State Park sits along the northern shore of Delaware's inland cypress swamp, the northernmost natural baldcypress stand on the Atlantic Coast. The campground offers 5 loops with tent sites, RV hookups, and walk-in primitive sites beneath hardwoods and loblolly pines. Sites run $35/night. Visitors paddle among cypress knees, fish the pond, and explore trails through this rare Mid-Atlantic wetland ecosystem.

The campground provides a mix of camping options, including RV, tent, and walk-in primitive sites. Cabins and yurts are available for a more comfortable stay.

Historical Significance

The pond formed in the late 1700s when settlers dammed Raccoon Creek to power sawmills. That damming inadvertently created conditions for baldcypress. Typically a Deep South species. To flourish at their northern frontier. Some trees here are centuries old, survivors from when this region's climate more closely resembled Louisiana or Georgia. They're living markers of climate shifts and ecosystem adaptation.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best conditions. Daytime highs run from the upper 50s to low 70s°F with crisp mornings ideal for paddling. Leaf color peaks in mid-to-late October, and mosquitoes finally back off after summer's humidity. Fishing and birding pick up as waterfowl arrive. Weekdays see light crowds; holiday weekends fill up. Spring through fall works well overall, with mild, dry days for water trails and forest hikes. Summer brings warm afternoons for swimming and pontoon rides. Winter temperatures hover between 30°F and 50°F. Cold enough for bracing hikes but still comfortable for camping if you layer up.

Natural Features and SceneryThe pond's dark water reflects massive baldcypress trees with fluted trunks and knobby knees rising from the surface. These southern swamp species reach their northern limit here, surrounded by hardwoods and coastal plain pines typical of the Mid-Atlantic. Ospreys and bald eagles hunt over the water. Great blue herons stalk the shallows. Painted turtles sun on fallen logs. During migration, the pond fills with waterfowl and songbirds using it as a stopover. The setting feels like a fairytale swamp transplanted from the Deep South, complete with moss-draped branches and tannic water.

Geological RegionNestled within Delaware's Inland Region, Trap Pond State Park protects a remarkable geological and ecological treasure—the northernmost natural baldcypress swamp on the Atlantic Coast. This unique wetland ecosystem thrives where the Atlantic Coastal Plain's sandy soils meet the perfect combination of water, climate, and time. The campground's position along the pond's northern shore places visitors at the heart of this biological crossroads, where southern swamp species reach their northern limits beneath a protective canopy of Mid-Atlantic hardwoods and coastal plain pines. It's a place where geography tells the story of climate, adaptation, and the ever-changing face of our natural world.

Scenic Views"Beautiful views of the lake from campsites" and scenic trails adjacent to the water are frequently mentioned in user reviews.

Lodging & AccommodationsCabins and yurts are available for rent. Cabins 09 and 10 allow pets, while others do not. Smoking is prohibited inside all cabins and yurts. Reviewers mentioned cabins being clean and cozy, located near the pond, with water spigots nearby. Bathrooms are not inside the cabins but are a short walk away.

Programs & ActivitiesThe park offers interpretive programs and educational opportunities at the nature center. Event schedules vary, and users have noted occasional concerts and family-friendly activities like bingo and crafting.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

3:00 PM for cabins.

Check-out

11:00 AM for cabins.

Stay Limit

Individuals are limited to two sites at any time.

Guests Allowed Per Site

User reviews indicate large campsites capable of accommodating multiple tents and glamping extras on Loop E.

Groups

Group camping is prohibited in family campgrounds.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutFive loops total. Loop A and B share a playground. Loop C handles large rigs. Loop D has mostly pull-through sites. Loop E is walk-in tent camping only. Wheelbarrows are provided to haul gear. Site spacing varies: Loop E feels private and peaceful, but some other loops pack sites close together. A few sites sit near roads, which means occasional traffic noise on weekends when the 10 PM quiet hour doesn't always get enforced.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via the Delaware State Parks website or by contacting the park office at 302-875-5153.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up tent sites are available, particularly in Loop E, which is reported to be quiet and secluded.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made before 3:30 PM on the day of arrival. Late check-out from cabins after 11:00 AM incurs a $100 fee.

AccessibilityWheelbarrows are available to assist with transporting equipment to walk-in sites. Bathhouses are reportedly close to all loops, and loops are connected by paths, providing ease of movement.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious, particularly in Loop E, where walk-in tent sites can accommodate large tents and extra equipment. Loop A was noted to fit a 28 ft trailer and a large truck.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by loop. Loop E is considered secluded and peaceful, while some reviewers mentioned sites in other loops being close together.

Recommended SitesLoop E is ideal for those seeking peaceful, car-free camping. Sites like D11 provide scenic water views.

Best CampsitesLoop E gets consistent recommendations for its secluded walk-in tent sites, which fit large tents and extra gear. Site D11 offers water views. Loop A fits a 28-foot trailer and a large truck if you need space for a big rig.

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Amenities available

Trap Pond State Park offers a wide variety of amenities, with standout features such as clean bathhouses, a camp store, fire rings, picnic tables, a playground, bike trails, and flush toilets. The campground features a dump station, potable water, and easy access to fishing, boating, and nature trails. Shower and laundry facilities are also available.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Trap Pond State Park offers a diverse array of activities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, and biking. Families can enjoy the playgrounds and interpretive programs, while nature lovers can explore the scenic trails and unique baldcypress trees.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSquirrels are noted as food-aggressive, requiring secure storage of food. Snakes have been reported near ponds and trees, emphasizing caution.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted within designated fire rings with grills available at each campsite.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Official quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM, although enforcement has been noted as inconsistent.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are accessible in Laurel, Delaware, which is the nearest city to the campground.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters and recycling receptacles are available near campground loops and opposite the overflow parking lot. Campers are urged to leave their sites clean.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to Trap Pond, offering kayaking, fishing, and pontoon rides among the cypress trees.

Camp HostHosts are frequently praised in reviews as friendly and helpful, ensuring clean facilities and assisting campers.

Cell CoverageMixed reviews suggest cell reception varies by provider. One user noted that Verizon cell service worked well, while T-Mobile had no coverage.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.5

138 reviews

Top-Rated

Trap Pond State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews highlight the park's natural beauty, clean facilities, and family-friendly atmosphere. Common praises include the variety of activities, well-maintained trails, and the unique experience of exploring the cypress swamp. Some users noted issues with campsite noise and pet disturbances.

Review Summaries

Based on 138 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 138 reviews.

Loop ELoved
Loop E: Known for spacious walk-in tent sites and serenity..
D11Loved
D11: Praised for good water views.
Loop AMentioned
Loop A: Accommodates large RVs, including 28 ft trailers.

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include clean and renovated facilities, spacious campsites, numerous activities such as kayaking and biking, and the serene environment of the cypress swamp. Many users appreciated...

Based on 138 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints included campsite proximity leading to noise issues, lack of swimming options, and inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours. Some reviewers reported disturbances from dogs and noisy...

Based on 138 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bug spray to ward off mosquitoes and ticks. Use wheelbarrows provided for walk-in sites. Early bookings are recommended for the popular Loop E walk-in tent sites. Prepare for potential rain, as...

Based on 138 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews mentioned fewer mosquitoes than expected but noted flies as a nuisance. Fall was praised for its scenic beauty. Winter and spring reviews were sparse but appreciated the park's quiet...

Based on 138 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The walk-in tent sites on loop E are HUGE!! You can easily fit two tents plus all the glamping extras!' - Marie 2. 'Bathrooms and showers were super clean. We were there Monday - Thursday, and...

Based on 138 reviews

Accessibility Features

Wheelbarrows are provided for walk-in sites, making gear transport easier. Trails and paths connect loops, making access convenient. Bathhouses are accessible from all loops.

Based on 138 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some reviews noted disturbances from barking dogs early in the morning.

Based on 138 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Paddlers and birders in fall are the obvious fit, kayak and canoe rentals put you inside the cypress stand within minutes of arriving, and mid-October weekdays are lightly crowded. Loop E walk-in tent sites offer real quiet and spacing; book them early via the Delaware State Park

Skip if

Weekend noise is a legitimate problem: quiet hours at 10 PM go unenforced often enough that reviewers call it out repeatedly. Families expecting a swim are also out of luck, no pool, no beach, pond swimming prohibited.

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