Bellevue State Park
00 review800 Carr Road, Wilmington, Delaware, 19809, United States
Bellevue State Park
$4.00 - $4.00 / 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
Entrance Fees are $4 per vehicle for parking (cash payment required if fee booth is open). Rates may vary for Delaware residents and non-residents.
About this campground
Step into a world where gilded age elegance meets outdoor adventure at Bellevue State Park. This captivating historic estate invites you to explore the magnificent Bellevue Hall mansion, stroll through manicured gardens, and discover hidden treasures across rolling grounds that once hosted Delaware's most prominent families. Whether you're casting a line in the tranquil pond, perfecting your disc golf game, or saddling up for a scenic horseback ride along wooded trails, every corner of this park tells a story. Summer brings the estate to life with special events that blend history with recreation, while the historic stables and vintage tennis courts whisper tales of leisurely afternoons from a bygone era.
Bellevue State Park primarily offers reservable picnic pavilions and areas rather than traditional camping options. These are ideal for day use and group events.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of American aristocracy at this remarkable estate, lovingly transformed by William du Pont, Jr. into the crown jewel of Delaware's park system. The grounds serve as an open-air museum where four centuries of American history converge. Beyond the grand Bellevue Hall mansion, discover the charming Cauffiel House with its colonial character, the serene Mount Pleasant Meeting House that has welcomed worshippers since colonial times, and the historic Parsonage at Wellspring Farms. Each building stands as a testament to the families who shaped Delaware's cultural landscape, their stories woven into the very fabric of these preserved structures.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full tapestry of Delaware's seasons at Bellevue State Park, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Summer welcomes visitors with warm, golden days perfect for outdoor adventures, with temperatures climbing to a comfortable 86°F - ideal for evening strolls through the gardens or lakeside picnics. As autumn arrives, the estate transforms into a photographer's paradise of crimson and gold. Winter brings a quiet magic to the grounds, with crisp air hovering around 29°F, turning morning walks into frost-kissed adventures. Spring awakens the gardens with bursts of color, making it the perfect season to witness the estate's natural rebirth.
ElevationThe park's gently rolling terrain creates an ever-changing landscape that delights visitors with subtle vistas and peaceful valleys throughout the property.
Natural Features and SceneryNature and history dance together across Bellevue's diverse landscape, where ancient woodlands give way to sun-drenched meadows and a mirror-like pond reflects the changing sky. Bird enthusiasts will discover a paradise of species flitting through the canopy, while photographers find endless inspiration in the interplay of light filtering through century-old trees. The park's carefully preserved fields bloom with wildflowers, creating a living canvas that changes with the seasons. Wildlife thrives in this protected haven, offering glimpses of deer at dawn, foxes at dusk, and countless smaller creatures that call these woods home.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of the Northeast Region, Bellevue State Park occupies a privileged position overlooking the mighty Delaware River. This unique location places visitors at the intersection of natural wonder and geological diversity, where ancient rock formations tell the story of millennia past. The park's varied terrain - from dense woodlands to open fields - showcases the region's geological heritage, while strategic overlooks provide breathtaking views of the Delaware River valley below. This blend of natural and historical landscapes creates a rare opportunity to experience both the raw beauty of the Northeast's geological features and the refined elegance of a preserved estate.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit details on accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are provided, but the park offers paved trails suitable for walking and biking.
Sites SizePark structures like pavilions accommodate up to 125 people, while picnic areas host up to 65 people.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews suggest that the park is spacious and rarely overcrowded, even during busy weekends.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFamilies and groups may enjoy reserving Pavilion #3 for gatherings. Trails are recommended for wildlife observation.
Best CampsitesPavilion #3 is highly praised in user reviews for its location and suitability for family gatherings.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
Group sites such as pavilions can host up to 125 people, making them suitable for picnics and events, but not for overnight camping.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIncludes three pavilions (each accommodating up to 125 people) and two picnic areas (each accommodating up to 65 people).
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, with entrance fees from March 1 to November 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the park office via phone at 302-761-6963.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly mentioned; pavilions require permits and reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies require contacting the park office at least one week prior to event for pavilion permits.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Activities you can enjoy
Bellevue State Park offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities for visitors. Activities include hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding, and cultural programs like summer concerts. The park also features a fitness track, an 18-hole disc golf course, and seasonal events.
Hiking
Hiking trails of varying difficulty are available, including paved trails connecting to the Delaware Greenway. Trails are described as scenic, shaded, and comfortable for older visitors.Fishing
The park features a pond designated for catch-and-release fishing. However, one user noted that the water quality could be improved.Biking
Multi-use trails within the park are suited for biking, with a fitness track specifically designed for recreational cycling.Wildlife viewing
Visitors frequently observe birds, deer, and other wildlife along the trails, adding to the park's natural charm.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park hosts various events such as summer concerts and seasonal festivals, which are popular among visitors.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities like snowshoeing or skiing are mentioned, but the park is open year-round.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not noted as part of the park's offerings.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Not explicitly mentioned; grills are available at picnic pavilions.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include cold temperatures in winter, wildlife encounters, and pack-in/pack-out trash management.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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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
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available within 10 miles, including hospitals and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1 to November 30
Trash and recyclingThe park follows a pack-in/pack-out policy for trash, emphasizing that visitors should bring their own trash bags for picnics.
Proximity to water featuresIncludes a pond suitable for catch-and-release fishing.
Common complaintsComplaints from user reviews include limited parking near pavilions and poorly planned pavilion access roads.
HostHosts are not explicitly mentioned; management is conducted through the park office.
Campground Map
800 Carr Road, Wilmington, Delaware, 19809, United States
Driving directionsFrom the North: Take I-95 south to exit #9 Marsh Road. At base of ramp is a traffic signal, turn left onto Marsh Rd. At first traffic signal, turn left again onto Carr Rd. Park entrance is 0.9 miles on the right. From the South: Take I-95 north to exit #9 Marsh Road. At base of exit ramp, turn left onto Carr Rd. Go straight through traffic signal. Park entrance is 0.9 miles on the right. Or take I-495 north to exit #4 Edgemoor, then bear right on ramp. At first intersection, turn right onto Edgemoor Rd. At 4th traffic signal (0.8 miles), turn right onto Marsh Rd. At 3rd traffic signal (1.3 miles), turn right onto Carr Rd. Park entrance is 0.9 miles on the right.
Access is via paved roads, with clear directional signage from major highways (I-95 and I-495).Nearby places
Wilmington: Approx. 4 miles, Newark: Approx. 15 miles, Philadelphia: Approx. 25 miles
Nearby supplies
Fuel stations, medical clinics, and restaurants are located less than one mile from the park. Additional facilities such as shopping malls, interpretive centers, and boating rentals are within 10 miles.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Bellevue State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Bellevue State Park are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the park's diverse activities, scenic beauty, and well-maintained facilities. However, some visitors noted issues with pavilion parking and pond water quality.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Common praise includes the park's spacious layout, variety of activities like hiking, biking, and fishing, and cultural events such as concerts. Many reviews mention the cleanliness of the facilities...
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Common Concerns
Complaints include the distance of pavilions from parking areas, which requires carrying supplies, and concerns about the pond's water quality.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing trash bags for the pack-in/pack-out policy and advise checking the park's event schedule for concerts or festivals. They also suggest exploring the historic Bellevue Hall...
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Seasonal Insights
The park is described as particularly stunning in the fall, with vibrant foliage enhancing its appeal. Summer is noted for concerts and outdoor activities, while winter offers free entry.
Camper Quotes
"Everything about this park I love. Don't forget to check out the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery." - Billy Potts. "Walking track, kids playground, personal garden space, fishing pond, horses and picnic...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Pavilion #3 received positive feedback for its location and suitability for family gatherings, while some users found pavilion parking inconvenient.
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features for people with disabilities are provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at the pavilions, as indicated by site-specific data.
Last updated August 10, 2025