One Of The Prettiest Places To Paddle In America Is An Under-The-Radar Delaware State Park

It's a trap! No, not at all — Trap Pond State Park in southern Delaware happens to be one of the prettiest places for a nature-immersed getaway, especially for paddlers. Known for stunning scenery and peaceful waters, this park is where you'll want to head, paddles in hand, to explore the mystical waterways and take in the sights of a stand of bald cypress trees (the East Coast's most northern naturally occurring one at that). 

While it offers plenty of walking trails, some of its most beautiful places you can only see by kayak. Trap Pond has more than 9 miles of water trails and open water areas worth exploring, whether you go by kayak, canoe, or pedal boat. Bring your own or take advantage of rentals from the park office, which also offers pontoon boat tours for visitors eager to learn more about the pond's backstory and ecological traits. Whether you're an experienced paddler or a beginner, the pond's calm waters are easy to navigate, and there's a downloadable map of all the park's water trails and other features available online. As you paddle, you might spot local wildlife, including herons, turtles, and maybe even a bald eagle soaring overhead. Even though it flies a bit under the radar, Trap Pond State Park is arguably one of the prettiest places to paddle in America, offering a unique experience that leaves visitors in awe of its natural beauty.

While paddling is the star attraction, Trap Pond State Park offers plenty of other activities for outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore the park. The park's trails wind through the bald cypress forests and along the pond's edge, making it a great destination for hiking and biking — there are also equestrian-approved trails for visitors looking to bring their horses. The 4.6-mile Bob Trail is particularly popular, taking visitors all around the pond while also connecting to the park office, camping areas, and the park's nature center.

Wildlife observers and birders will especially be thrilled with all of the diverse species in the park. The bald cypress trees are home to wildlife like wood ducks, a number of water birds, wild turkeys, owls, falcons, and many more than we can reasonably list here. Bald eagles also nest in the branches and hunt for fish in the waters. There's even a birding checklist available for download from the Delaware State Parks website. The park is also home to a 23-acre nature preserve called Barnes Woods.

Fishing is another favorite pastime at Trap Pond. Anglers can cast their lines for bass, crappie, and bluegill, either from the shore or boat. For families, the park features picnic areas and a playground, making it a great spot for a relaxing day out. Plus, there are educational programs and interesting exhibits (and a 500-gallon aquarium) available in the Baldcypress Nature Center.

Trap Pond State Park is located in Laurel, Delaware — just about two hours from Baltimore and Washington, D.C. The park is open year-round starting at 8 a.m., but spring and summer are the best times to experience paddling and other water activities at their peak. However, leaf peepers will also want to keep in mind that this lesser-known park is the perfect place to see fall foliage at the start of the season. Entry to the park is affordable, with a small fee for vehicles ($4 for Delaware residents and $8 for out-of-towners).

Camping is a great option for extending your trip at Trap Pond, with waterside cabin rentals available that can be reserved for up to 14 days (there's a one-week minimum during the summertime). There's also a scenic camping area with more than 142 sites to pitch your tent or park your RV. Before you post up, read our guide on how to choose the best campsite at your campground.

Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer stay, Trap Pond State Park is the place to go in Delaware for a day of nature exploration. From paddling, biking, and hiking to fishing from a rustic cabin, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this under-the-radar gem.