Pet-Friendly Outdoor Places in Delaware’s Quaint Villages

Make plans for an outdoor adventure the whole family can enjoy– including your furry best friend! Escape to open-air spaces by exploring some of Delaware’s Quaint Villages’ numerous pet-friendly trails, refuges, and parks including public dog parks. There are so many options to choose from – here is a list we compiled for some of the best pet-friendly outdoor places. Don’t forget to pack your leash and water bowls!

Dover, Delaware:

Silver Lake Park- This city park offers a range of recreational activities covering 182 acres. Enjoy a paved walking and jogging path around the scenic Sliver Lake or bring your fishing poles and spend the day catching bass, catfish, and perch.

Tidbury Creek County Park – Home to a nature loop walking trail, scenic fishing pond, dog watering station and two areas for small and large dogs to play and explore.

St. Jones River Greenway - Discover the St. Jones River Greenway, a 14-mile river-side pathway with scenic views of the St. Jones River and surrounding wetlands. The greenway consists of cultural recreation and nature resources.

Hunn Nature Park – Accessible year-round, this trail is comprised of land mill meadows, wetlands, and a pedestrian bridge. Spot various flora and fauna including oaks, red cedars, and conifer trees.

Fork Branch Nature Preserve – Discover Fork Branch Nature Preserve in Dover. Walk along the mile loop trail to spot various migratory birds, wildflowers and more.

Milford, Delaware:

Abbott’s Mill Nature Center – Explore miles of trails at Milford’s Abbott’s Mill Nature Center. Relish in picturesque views of Abbott’s Mill Pond, learn about the historic working gristmill, reserve a kayak rental, and much more.

Smyrna, Delaware:

Blackbird State Forest – A well-known popular site for outdoor recreation, this Forest park in Smyrna boasts 40 miles of nature trails used for hiking, birdwatching, cycling, cross-country, and horseback trails.

Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge – Delve into one of the largest remaining expanses of salt tidal marsh in the Mid-Atlantic at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge. Coast along the 12-mile wildlife drive and stop along the various walking trails and observation towers to get a bird’s eye view of the picturesque refuge and wetlands.

Big Oak County Park – Spend the afternoon at one of Kent County’s local parks. Explore over 90-acres of free public access to trails, restored wetlands and outdoor recreation.

Felton, Delaware:

Killens Pond State Park- Pack up the family and spend the day at Killens Pond State Park located in Felton. This 66-acre millpond is a popular area for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy recreation activities including birding, kayaking, camping, hiking, cycling and much more.

Camden, Delaware:

Brecknock County Park – Home to 86-acres of outdoor recreation with a range of historic buildings, nature trails, open fields, nature center, and more.