Cape Henlopen State Park
00 review15099 Cape Henlopen Drive, Lewes, DE 19958, United States
Cape Henlopen State Park
$5.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Fees vary between $5 for Delaware residents and $10 for out-of-state visitors. Additional fees for campsite reservations and utilities may apply.
About this campground
Where history meets the horizon, Cape Henlopen State Park beckons adventurers to discover its unique blend of wartime heritage and coastal splendor. Navigate the intimate, tree-lined roads to reach your campsite, where newly renovated facilities provide modern comfort just steps from pristine Atlantic beaches. This storied peninsula has watched over Delaware's coast for centuries, now offering visitors the perfect basecamp for both relaxation and exploration.
Cape Henlopen State Park accommodates a range of camping preferences including family-style camping, tent-only sites, primitive group camping, cabins, and RV-friendly sites. Each camping style offers unique benefits to suit different needs.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Fort Miles, the park's crown jewel of American military history. This preserved WWII coastal defense installation invites exploration through its fascinating artillery parks, engaging museums, and hauntingly beautiful abandoned barracks. Once Delaware's guardian against enemy vessels, these concrete sentinels now stand as monuments to courage, offering visitors a tangible connection to the brave soldiers who once walked these grounds during one of history's most pivotal moments.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic personality of the Atlantic coast through Cape Henlopen's ever-changing seasons. Early summer visitors are greeted by refreshingly cool ocean waters perfect for gradual acclimation, while peak summer brings warm, humid days ideal for beach lounging and water sports. Each season paints the landscape differently, from spring's gentle awakening to autumn's crisp beach walks, ensuring every visit offers its own unique coastal charm.
ElevationThe park's gentle coastal topography creates an accessible landscape where dunes meet forest and beach meets bay, offering easy exploration for visitors of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a coastal paradise where aromatic pine forests give way to windswept dunes and endless ocean vistas. As one enchanted visitor noted, 'Under the sun, the pine trees smell so good,' capturing the sensory magic of this diverse ecosystem. From peaceful tidal salt marshes teeming with wildlife to energetic ocean beaches perfect for surfing, Cape Henlopen's natural tapestry offers something for every nature enthusiast. Maritime forests provide shaded trails and wildlife viewing opportunities, while both bay and ocean beaches invite endless exploration.
Geological RegionPositioned at nature's dramatic crossroads where the Delaware Bay embraces the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Henlopen showcases a remarkable geological story written in sand and salt. This dynamic peninsula features an ever-evolving landscape of barrier beaches, ancient maritime forests, and vibrant tidal salt marshes. Watch as two great bodies of water meet, creating unique ecosystems that support diverse wildlife and offer visitors front-row seats to the eternal dance between land and sea.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCape Henlopen provides ADA-compliant campsites (e.g., C15 ADA and D01 ADA), equipped with water and electrical hookups. However, specific details regarding pathways or other accessibility features are not included.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with maximum equipment lengths ranging from 15 feet to 128 feet. RV sites tend to be tighter, as noted by users.
Sites PrivacyMany users noted that privacy at campsites is limited due to their close proximity. One user stated, 'Tiny sites, zero privacy,' while another mentioned, 'RV sites are really cramped but endless biking, walking trails make up for it.'
Total Campsites200 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor RVs, it is recommended to book sites larger than the RV length, and avoid Loop A even-numbered sites for units with slide-outs.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites are identified as best within the provided data.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Individuals are limited to 2 sites at any time.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guests per site are 8.
Groups
Group camping is accommodated in designated areas suited for youth groups or large parties. These sites are separate from family campgrounds.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features loops and narrow roads, with sites designed for tents, pavilions, and RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonWater availability is limited in March and November due to seasonal weather conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the park office at 302-645-8983.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability varies and is heavily dependent on cancellations or no-shows on busy days.
Cancellation PolicyEquipment changes from the original reservation requirements must be approved through the park office prior to arrival. Changes may result in reservation cancellation.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Cape Henlopen State Park offers a wide variety of recreational activities, from swimming and fishing to biking and hiking. Visitors can enjoy disc golf, kayaking, bird watching, and nature trails. The park also features cultural and historical opportunities at Fort Miles, which includes WWII observation towers and exhibits.
Hiking
The park provides a network of hiking trails, including the popular Gordon's Pond Trail. Trails cater to all skill levels and often wind through scenic maritime forests and dune landscapes. One user shared, 'The trail around Gordon Pond is well worth the visit.'Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Cape Henlopen, with options for surf casting and pier fishing. Visitors need a license for saltwater fishing. One user described the experience as 'very cool to be able to drive on and cast out a line.'Swimming
The park offers ocean and bay swimming areas with lifeguards present during the peak season. Reviewers consistently note the cleanliness of the beach and swimming facilities.Biking
Cape Henlopen is highly regarded for its extensive bike trails. Free bike rentals are available at the nature center for up to two hours, making it accessible for visitors. One user stated, 'The bike trails are fabulous.'Boating
The park supports non-motorized boating such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Rentals are available near the beach area.Wildlife viewing
Cape Henlopen is an excellent spot for bird watching and observing deer and other wildlife. One user commented on 'deer everywhere,' while another highlighted the nightjars flying around at night.Beach activities
The beach at Cape Henlopen offers activities such as sunbathing, surf fishing, and picnicking. Visitors frequently praise its cleanliness and laid-back atmosphere. One person noted, 'Camping here with beach access on bay side and ocean side is amazing.'Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers educational tours and programs, including visits to Fort Miles and Battery 519. These highlight the area's WWII history and are well-received by visitors.Winter Activities
Winter camping is available, and the park remains open year-round, though no specific winter activities like skiing or snowshoeing are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within fire rings provided at each site.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks are mentioned frequently in user reviews as a significant concern, alongside narrow roads and beach camping challenges.
Active alertsNo active alerts were explicitly mentioned.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are available at the park office by calling 302-645-8983. Additional services may be found in nearby Lewes, DE.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available; however, Cape Henlopen enforces a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy, requiring visitors to take their trash with them. This policy has mixed reviews from users who found it inconvenient.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is close to ocean and bay beaches, offering swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities.
Common complaints"RV sites are ok size," noted one review, though another described them as "really cramped." Tick infestations are a recurring issue during hot weather months.
HostThe park staff and hosts are described as "extremely nice and helpful" in user reviews.
Campground Map
15099 Cape Henlopen Drive, Lewes, DE 19958, United States
Driving directionsTraveling South on DE Route 1, follow signs to US Route 9 East. Turn left onto Dartmouth Road to stop sign. Turn left again onto Route 9 East, Freeman Highway, traveling approximately 2.8 miles. Turn right onto Cape Henlopen Drive. Park entrance is approximately 1 mile past the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal.
The park entrance is accessible from paved roads. However, the campground roads are described as narrow and may present challenges for larger RV units. Slide-outs are not allowed in Loop A even-numbered sites due to road constraints. Water availability at campsites during March and November depends on weather conditions.Nearby places
Ocean City, MD - 30 miles
Rehoboth Beach, DE - 7 miles
Baltimore, MD/Washington, DC/Philadelphia, PA - 120 miles.
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, groceries, firewood, and other necessities can be purchased at the campground's store located within the park.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Cape Henlopen State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Cape Henlopen State Park is widely praised for its diverse activities, clean facilities, and family-friendly environment. However, reviewers frequently mention drawbacks such as ticks and cramped campsites for RVs.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the variety of activities including biking, hiking, swimming, and historical tours. The free showers and clean bathrooms are also commonly highlighted by users. One user...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include cramped RV sites, limited privacy, and issues with ticks in the campground area. One user wrote, 'The ticks were so bad, I had to keep the dogs inside.' Another reviewer...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray to manage ticks. Book well in advance as the park is often fully reserved. Consider bringing bikes to explore the extensive trail system. Be mindful of the 'pack it in, pack it out'...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer is the busiest time of year with packed beaches and full parking lots, but the park maintains cleanliness. Fall is noted as a good time for camping but securing a spot can be challenging....
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Camper Quotes
1. 'The best part are the free showers!! They're great after playing in the sand all day.'
2. 'The ticks were so bad, I had to keep the dogs inside.'
3. 'RV sites are really cramped but endless...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Visitors recommend avoiding cramped RV sites if privacy is a concern. Sites near the beach are highly favored for their convenience.
Accessibility Features
ADA-compliant sites like C15 ADA are appreciated, though additional details on accessibility features are not frequently mentioned.
Pet-Friendly Features
The park is pet-friendly, but some reviewers complain about noise from dogs during the night. One user expressed frustration, 'It barks in the middle of the night, and the owner doesn't do anything.'
Last updated August 10, 2025