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Delaware by Day: Visit and Learn More About Delaware’s Nature Preserves 

Rather than taking a trip to the beach on a crowded day, why not break up your routine by making a visit to one of Delaware’s precious nature preserves? 

Delaware is home to 34 dedicated nature preserves, comprised of more than 7,000 acres in diverse environments – everything from sandy beaches to wooded preserves teeming with wildlife. While they are not all open to the public, there are several to choose from to go on a new adventure discovering trails or taking along a picnic. 

Because Delaware has these preserves dedicated to protecting land and wildlife from overdevelopment, visitors should follow these guidelines outlined by Delaware Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC).  Delaware is home to 34 state-dedicated Nature Preserves, consisting of over 7,000 acres of land and wetlands. 

Not all DNREC nature preserves are open to the public, but when visiting those that are, here is a sample some DNREC’s guidelines:  

  • Stay on the designated trails or public use areas. 
  • Nature Preserves are “carry in, carry out” areas.  
  • Pets are not allowed in all nature preserves. Be sure to check beforehand. 
  • For your own safety and that of wildlife, always view from a distance. 
  • Do not pick up or collect any natural or cultural objects. Take only photos. 
  • Help prevent the spread of invasive species. Make sure your clothes and shoes are clear of mud and any potential seeds.   

In Sussex, County, here are the nature preserves that are accessible to the public. 

Angola Neck, Lewes 

Hike the peaceful 600 acre preserve along Rehoboth Bay and Herring Creek peninsula. Trails include wooded, seagrass and bayfront sandy areas. It is home to several rare plant and animal species. 

Barnes Woods Nature Preserve 

Visit this unique forest, and escape summer’s heat. Within the Nanticoke River Natural Area, walk the forested trails of oak and pine land, tidal creeks and swamp floodplain.  This 23-acre, undisturbed woodland is bounded on two sides by tidal creeks. No parking facility is available, but visitors may park on the road by the trailhead. 

Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve 

This preserve, located just down the road from Broadkill Beach is an alternative sandy destination to enjoy Delaware Bay. Enjoy beautiful sunsets and views of Lewes across the Roosevelt Inlet. Enjoy exploring brief hikes along the tidal marshes and “riverine” areas, where you can observe plenty of birds and marine species. A bonus for dog owners: dogs are welcome (leashed of course, but be ultra careful, as the sensitive dunes and vegetation  are very vulnerable to human activity.  

Rehoboth Bay Marshes Nature Preserve (Burton Island) at Delaware Seashore State Park 

Hike the scenic, 1.5 mile loop in Burton Island, located within Delaware Seashore State Park near the marina. It is a precious, 222-acre saltmarsh island with views of Rehoboth and Indian River Bays. Take care to stay on the trail, as it is an important nesting ground for Diamondback Terrapins. Be sure to bring bug spray and dress appropriately. It is recommended to hike this trail during cooler months. 

Thompson Island Nature Preserve 

(This description is courtesy of DNREC.) 

“Thompson Island is a rare and exciting site that was first brought to attention in the 1940s when an ossuary was discovered. An ossuary is defined as a chamber or facility used to store human skeletal remains. The ossuary dates from either a very late Woodland Period or Contact time, circa 1630, and undoubtedly relates to the Slaughter Creek Phase occupation which was concentrated around Lewes and documented by the first Dutch settlers. The archaeological significance of Thompson Island made it a prime candidate for dedication as a Nature Preserve.” 

For more information, follow these links: 

Nature Preserves 

Find Delaware Hikes 

Bridget FitzPatrick 

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