“Hey, Boo Boo. Let’s Go Get Ourselves A Pic-a-Nic Basket.” So said the most famous picnic connoisseur, Yogi Bear. We interviewed him recently (long in retirement now) for his opinion on where to picnic in Delaware.
According to Yogi, Delaware offers some stiff competition to Jellystone National Park, and here are the BEST SPOTS!
Mill Pond Garden
If you are looking for an interesting change of pace from the beachfront scene, look no further than Mill Pond Garden, a haven for all of us, but especially for those who love flora and fauna not often seen at the coast. This gem offers us a glimpse into the beauty of Delaware’s natural plants. Fill your basket full, clear your calendar, and lose yourself in the landscape… at least for a serene afternoon break.
Cape Henlopen State Park
This treasure keeps coming up as one of the most stunning parks Delaware has to offer. It will not disappoint! Picnicking, hiking, biking, birding, walking – you name it – this state park may as well be a national park (although it might serve us locals better to keep it a secret). There are plenty of picnic sneaks!
There’s plenty of picnic tables at the fishing pier. Or you can enjoy your basket on its beautiful beaches. Near the entrance to the Gordons Pond trail (bikes, trailblazers and dogs are all welcome), there’s plenty of parking and tables just steps from the beach. Enjoy getting lost as you look for the perfect spot to spread your blanket. (Just remember, it’s carry in, carry out. So don’t forget a trash bag!) (Cape Henlopen State Park)
Stango Park
Nerd alert. Stango Park is right by the Lewes Public Library, which means many people find it wandering by or taking advantage of the free concerts on the adjacent lawn during summer evenings.
This park offers a great stopping point for a picnic as you make a day of it. A short drive to Lewes Beach or you can park your bike. The Georgetown-Lewes trail is right there, so if you are coming from other trail destinations, you can certainly have a delightful picnic at Stango Park, (named for Al Stango, Lewes’ charismatic former-mayor).
So whether you plan your picnic around a local concert, stop off for lunch after a hike, or use it as a spring-board for a day at the beach, your options are wide open.
Beach Plum Island State Park
A genuine gem, Beach Plum Island has its own unique atmosphere. It is at once an authentic community and a testament to how Delaware takes care of its land and bay. This rural area boasts more birds than people in many places, so enjoy your picnic here in the company of DE’s stunning waterfowl (and friendly people too).
While these are our favorites, they’re definitely only the tip of the iceberg. When out-of-town guests come, you’re never stuck for options to enjoy the great outdoors. You’ve picked a great state to call home–full of great reasons to LOVE LIVING HERE!
