Named for its central pond, the 66-acre park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including numerous fish species, birds, and amphibians.
Whether you're taking a family trip or feel the need to spend time alone in nature, you'll find something to do at Killens Pond — and you'll likely want to make a pit stop at one of the following attractions and restaurants before you go home. Read on for more.
What to Do in the Park
There are so many opportunities for fun at Killens Pond State Park for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. We suggest:
- Go fishing: The pond is home to many different species of fish, including carp, catfish, largemouth bass, bluegills and many more. Angling enthusiasts are sure to make a great catch. Note that you need a recreational fishing license before fishing in any of Delaware's State Parks.
- Go boating: Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the pond. Guided kayak tours are also available for guests ages 13 and up — be sure to register in advance to guarantee your spot.
- Visit the nature center: Check out the park's nature center to learn about animals native to the area — and even meet a few real ones! You can also book a tour with a park naturalist for a hands-on nature experience.
- Ride or hike: The park offers hiking and biking trails of varying difficulties and distances. There's even a cross-country course for adventurous runners.
- Visit the water park: Featuring thrilling slides and pools for all ages, the Killens Pond Water Park is a family-friendly retreat you won't want to miss.
Campsites, yurts, and cabins are available year-round at Killens Pond State Park and may be reserved up to a year in advance. You can make a reservation online.
Nearby Beaches to Visit and Explore
The closest beaches to Killens Pond State Park are Bowers Beach and Slaughter Beach, two of Delaware's hidden gems. These beaches are excellent for families looking for a waterside retreat or anyone looking to soak up some sun.
Bowers Beach
Bowers Beach is a quiet town located in Frederica, Delaware, about 20 minutes from Killens Pond. A more laid-back alternative to the tourist hotspots of Rehoboth, Dewey and Bethany Beach, Bowers Beach provides easy access to the shores of the Delaware Bay, where you can spend the day swimming, kayaking, playing in the sand or basking in the sun.
While you're in town, be sure to visit the Bowers Beach Maritime Museum to learn all about the town's long history. The museum is open on weekends from 2-4 p.m. between Memorial and Labor day.
Before you head home, grab a bite at JP's Wharf, the seafood restaurant and bar located on the water. They catch their own rockfish and oysters and cook every dish to order, so you know you'll get a delicious meal. You can reserve a table by calling the restaurant at 302-335-4035.
Slaughter Beach
Marine life enthusiasts will love taking a visit to the quiet town of Slaughter Beach, an official horseshoe crab sanctuary. Every summer, hundreds of thousands of horseshoe crabs — Delaware's official marine animal — come to shore to spawn. While the biggest wave arrives in late May and early June, these prehistoric crustaceans often linger through August.
By the way, if you see a horseshoe crab stuck on its back, gently lift it by its sides and flip it back over to keep it from drying out in the sun. Just be sure not to touch its tail.
Other Spots to Visit in Kent County, Delaware
Looking for ways to make the most of your trip? While you're still in the area, check out Kent County's local treasures.
Things to Do
Kent County has something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor adventurer or an avid shopper, we know you'll enjoy your time exploring the area. Check out the following attractions to see what we mean:
- Air Mobility Command Museum: Immerse yourself and your family in aviation history. Featuring more than 30 antique aircraft and fascinating exhibits about historic missions, the museum is the only one of its kind in the nation. Learn more about the museum by visiting its official website.
- Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge: Can't get enough of the Great Outdoors? Visit Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge in Smyrna. The Refuge is open year-round from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset and offers a variety of trails, so you've got plenty of opportunities to explore the tidal salt marsh.
- Bally's Dover Casino Resort: After some time at the park, why not play the night away at Delaware's largest casino? If you've been dreaming of a luxurious vacation, the resort's hotel is sure to deliver. Make the most of your visit by indulging in some well-deserved pampering at the spa and salon and dining at one of the many high-class eateries.
- Black Swamp Artisanal Market: For a little farmer's market fun, visit Black Swamp Artisanal Market in Dover. Founded by the owners of Black Swamp Farmstead, the market offers a wide variety of diverse food and handmade crafts from across the Delmarva region. Enjoy a meal and pick up some seasonal produce, meat, honey, coffee, bath and body products to bring home with you.
- Abbott's Mill Nature Center:Abbott's Mill Nature Center includes 376 acres of Milford Millponds Nature Preserve with gardens, hiking trails and a Visitors Center with exhibits.
- Local shops: In the mood for a little shopping? Support Kent County's unique local businesses like Blooming Boutique, Forney's Too, Simply Charming and more!
Places to Eat
Hungry after all that hiking? Here are some of our favorite places to eat in Kent County:
- Benvenuto: Located in Milford, Benvenuto offers a Tuscan-inspired culinary experience you'll savor. Their menu features Italian classics as well as shoreline favorites like crab cake sandwiches and calamari. Call 302-265-2652 to make a reservation.
- Brickworks Brewing and Eats: Smyrna's Brickworks Brewing and Eats offers a diverse list of unique beers and delicious food — all made from scratch using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Call 302-508-2523 for more information or to reserve a table.
- Cool Springs Fish Bar & Restaurant:Cool Springs Fish Bar & Restaurant, a modern, family-owned seafood restaurant and bar in Dover, features an open-air kitchen and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Call 302-698-1955 to make a reservation.
- Restaurant 55:Restaurant 55 is Cool Springs' sister restaurant, offering high-end burgers, sandwiches and beers in a laid-back dining environment. Call 302-535-8102 for more information on their menu and reservations.
- Sambo's Tavern: Feeling crabby? Stop by Sambo's Tavern in Leipsic for fresh steamed crabs, sandwiches and seafood. Call 302-674-9724 before your visit to confirm their hours. Note that everyone in your party must be 21 or over.
Download Our New Visitor Guide!
We hope you enjoy your time at Killens Pond State Park. Download our new visitor guide today to inspire your travels throughout Delaware's Quaint Villages.