Trap Pond State Park
Quick Facts
Why Laurel & Trap Pond
Trap Pond State Park preserves the northernmost naturally occurring stand of bald cypress trees in the United States, a genuinely otherworldly wetland created in the late 1700s to power a sawmill. Named the most scenic campsite in Delaware by Reader’s Digest, the park offers over nine miles of water trails through the swamp and a 4.6-mile land loop called the Bob Trail, with turtles, herons, and dragonflies among the common sightings.
This is a genuine hidden gem, budget-friendly and built around paddling through a beautiful bald cypress swamp — turtles, herons, and dragonflies are common sightings, with a guided pontoon tour a great low-effort way to see the highlights.
What Makes It Special
- Location: Laurel, in southwestern Sussex County
- Setting: Northernmost bald cypress swamp in the U.S., genuinely otherworldly
- Site type: State park campground
- Amenities: Bald cypress swamp kayaking, well-maintained bike trails, pontoon swamp tours, real wildlife sightings
- Recreation: Water activities, wildlife viewing, and hiking
Pro Tips for Booking
Take the guided pontoon tour. It’s a great low-effort way to see the swamp’s highlights, running Friday and Saturday afternoons with reservations required.
Paddle at sunrise for the best light. The mist over the cypress swamp is genuinely magical in the early morning.
Bike the Bob Trail. This 4.6-mile loop circles the pond and is a favorite for both hiking and biking.
What to Do Around Here
- Kayaking through the bald cypress swamp
- Guided pontoon tours of the swamp
- Biking or hiking the 4.6-mile Bob Trail
- Wildlife viewing, including great blue herons, owls, and turtles
- Fishing for largemouth bass, pickerel, and bluegill
