Cape Henlopen State Park
Lewes, DE
Dunes, beaches and a climbable World War II observation tower at the mouth of Delaware Bay, with the Great Dune and a paved bike loop. Vehicle fee in season, higher for out-of-state cars; the campground is near the Cape May ferry.
Cape Henlopen State Park is near Lewes, where Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. The park mixes dunes, beaches and marshland. The Beach Plum Nature Preserve is described as the only publicly owned wild space in Delaware that includes both dune and marsh habitats; most of it is closed to protect wildlife.
During World War II the coastal defenses of Fort Miles were stationed here. You can visit the Battery 519 bunker with its museum, an artillery park, barracks buildings and Fire Control Tower 7, which you can climb for wide views over the park. The Seaside Nature Center has touch tanks and aquariums, and several hiking and biking trails cross the park. The lifeguarded swimming beaches are open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Camping is available, including for RVs; hours for the campground, museum and nature center vary by season, so check ahead. Half a day is enough for the beach and the fort, and in summer it is best to arrive early.
- Nearest town
- Lewes, DE
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 38.7985, -75.0950
- Editor's pick
- ★
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April, June and August. Cold, short days in January–February. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Big Oaks CampgroundCampsite5 mi from Cape Henlopen State Park
- Lighthouse Beach RV ResortMotorhome stopover12 mi from Cape Henlopen State ParkMotorhomes
- The Depot Travel ParkCampsite13 mi from Cape Henlopen State ParkTentsCaravansElectricityShowersToiletsWaste disposalDogs allowedWi-Fi
- Seashore Campsites RV Park & CampgroundCampsite16 mi from Cape Henlopen State ParkCaravans
- Sun Outdoors Cape MayMotorhome stopover16 mi from Cape Henlopen State ParkMotorhomes
- Lost Lands RV ParkMotorhome stopover23 mi from Cape Henlopen State ParkMotorhomes
All campsites in Delaware · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Cape Henlopen State Park?
Cape Henlopen State Park is in Lewes, DE, at GPS 38.7985, -75.0950. It is about 5 mi from Rehoboth Beach.
Can you camp near Cape Henlopen State Park?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Cape Henlopen State Park Campground, about 2 mi away; within 25 mi there are 30 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Cape Henlopen State Park?
Cape Henlopen State Park is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Delaware: Bombay Hook, Dover and the Cape Henlopen beaches.
What is there to see near Cape Henlopen State Park?
Places worth a stop nearby: Lewes Historic Area (3 mi), Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk (6 mi), Cape May Lighthouse (12 mi) and Delaware Seashore State Park, Indian River Inlet (13 mi).
When is the best time to visit Cape Henlopen State Park?
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April, June and August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)