Trap Pond State Park

4.57

109 reviews

15702 Goosenest Road, Laurel, DE 19956, United States

Summer Destination

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

Quick Facts

102 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Delaware State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

102 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Delaware State Parks site

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

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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Provider

3028755153

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What Campers Say

4.57

Top-Rated

Based on 109 reviews

1316 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciousfriendlysites

Some mention

noise

"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."

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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

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.

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.

Best Time to Camp at Trap Pond State Park

Spring through fall unveils Trap Pond at its finest, with mild, dry days perfect for exploring the water trails and forest paths. Summer brings warm afternoons ideal for swimming and lazy pontoon rides, while autumn paints the hardwood canopy in brilliant golds and crimsons. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, with temperatures hovering between 30°F and 50°F—crisp enough for invigorating hikes yet mild enough for comfortable camping. Each season reveals a different face of this remarkable ecosystem, from spring's chorus of returning songbirds to winter's peaceful solitude among the bare cypress silhouettes.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer supports boating and rentals; reviews note good summer experiences though flies can be a nuisance.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall praised for scenic beauty; foliage and tranquil water trails highlighted by visitors.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring through fall is peak season; mild, dry spring days good for paddling and trails.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Campground open year-round but winter reviews sparse; quiet but fewer activities available.

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

Discover a hidden gem where ancient baldcypress trees rise from mirror-like waters at Trap Pond State Park in Delaware. This enchanting campground rests along the northern shore of the pond, sheltered beneath a cathedral of hardwoods and towering loblolly pines. Here, at the northernmost natural stand of baldcypress on the East Coast, adventurers paddle through a primeval waterscape, weaving between moss-draped giants. Whether you're gliding through cypress groves by kayak, casting a line into peaceful waters, or drifting aboard a pontoon boat as the sun filters through the canopy, Trap Pond offers an escape into one of the Mid-Atlantic's most unique ecosystems.

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 SignificanceTrap Pond holds a unique place in natural history as home to the northernmost natural stand of baldcypress trees on the East Coast—a living relic from when this region's climate more closely resembled the Deep South. These ancient sentinels, some centuries old, tell the story of changing climates and ecosystems, standing as monuments to nature's resilience and adaptation. The pond itself originated from the damming of Raccoon Creek in the late 1700s to power sawmills, inadvertently creating the perfect conditions for these southern trees to flourish at their northern frontier.

Weather and SeasonsSpring through fall unveils Trap Pond at its finest, with mild, dry days perfect for exploring the water trails and forest paths. Summer brings warm afternoons ideal for swimming and lazy pontoon rides, while autumn paints the hardwood canopy in brilliant golds and crimsons. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, with temperatures hovering between 30°F and 50°F—crisp enough for invigorating hikes yet mild enough for comfortable camping. Each season reveals a different face of this remarkable ecosystem, from spring's chorus of returning songbirds to winter's peaceful solitude among the bare cypress silhouettes.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into an otherworldly landscape where massive baldcypress trees emerge from dark waters, their knobby knees and fluted trunks creating a scene straight from a fairytale. As one awestruck visitor noted, 'The cypress trees growing out of the water are a wonder to behold.' The campground's setting blends the mystique of a southern swamp with the familiarity of Mid-Atlantic forests, where stately hardwoods and fragrant loblolly pines provide a verdant backdrop. Wildlife thrives in this diverse habitat—watch for majestic ospreys diving for fish, bald eagles soaring overhead, great blue herons stalking the shallows, and painted turtles sunning on fallen logs. During migration seasons, the pond becomes a vital stopover for countless birds, filling the air with their calls and the water with their reflections.

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.

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 layoutThe campground features five loops: Loop A (playground shared with Loop B), Loop C (best for large rigs), Loop D (mostly pull-through sites), and Loop E (walk-in tent camping).

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.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

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.

HikingThe park features several trails, including the Bob Trail, which is around 5 miles long and suitable for families with small kids. Trails loop around the pond and connect to nearby areas, offering scenic views of the cypress swamp.

FishingFishing is a popular activity; species caught include largemouth bass, calico bass, yellow perch, and bluegill. A Delaware fishing license is required.

BikingTrails are suitable for biking, and the Bob Trail is highlighted as particularly enjoyable. Free bike rentals are available near the park office.

BoatingBoating options include kayak, canoe, pontoon, and pedal boat rentals. Water trails through the cypress trees offer a unique experience.

Wildlife viewingThe park is home to various wildlife, including eagles, ospreys, herons, and turtles. The swamp is particularly engaging for bird watchers.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe 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.

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.

Weather at Trap Pond State Park

Reviews

4.6

109 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 109 reviews

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 109 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 109 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 109 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 109 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 109 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Loop E: Known for spacious walk-in tent sites and serenity. Loop A: Accommodates large RVs, including 28 ft trailers. Some sites have a playground nearby. D11: Praised for good water views.

Based on 109 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 109 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

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

Based on 109 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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