This Little Known Lake In Delaware Will Be Your New Favorite Summer Destination
By Kim Magaraci|Published July 21, 2016
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Kim Magaraci
Author
Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
Killen’s Pond State Park has been a Kent County secret for years – but now the cat’s out of the bag! Ever since the beautiful park won Kent County’s Top Attraction in 2015, more and more people are finding out about this hidden gem of a park in the middle of Delaware. With miles of hiking trails, a cool pond that’s perfect for paddling, and a large water park that will satisfy the thrill seekers, there’s really nothing more to ask for in a summer destination.
Killen’s Pond is located down Rt 13, about 20 minutes south of Dover. Its best to go on a weekday, when the crowds are smaller, but even on weekends, you’ll never feel claustrophobic. It’s location is perfect for a multi-day camping adventure or just a simple day trip. You can stock up on snacks and create a picnic lunch at any of the Royal Farms that you’ll pass on the way from upstate or downstate, or you can go slightly out of your way for the best Italian food in the area at Frederica Pizza and Pasta.
It’s so easy to have a perfect summer experience here, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t think of this sooner!
This beautiful state park is a hidden wonder in Kent County
While those local certainly know it exists, folks from Sussex or New Castle may be surprised to learn that one of their state parks is this magical wonderland, just south of Dover.
...whether you're in a kayak, canoe, rowboat or paddle boat! So, rent one at the Park Office - they're affordable (as low as $5/hour or $25/day!) and convenient.
Rental Hours are M-Th (paddleboats only!) from
9 a.m. to 3 p.m, and
Friday to Sunday (all boats!) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
No need to learn how to pitch a tent, just rent one of the many cabins available for less than $100/night, and even enjoy a pond view! If you prefer to set up your own, there are walk-in sites that won't cost you more than $40/night. There are different prices based on season, residency, and night, so you can really do this whole park on a budget, if you plan well!
This is the BEST thing about Killen's Pond. Where else can you get access to a gigantic water park just steps away from your cabin, without breaking the bank? Nowhere else. There, we saved you the research.
They have slides of all types, perfect for every rider.
As of publication, two of the brand-new speed slides were closed, but there are still plenty of other slides, including new full body slides and the smaller ones, perfect for your smaller ones.
It's the perfect place for kids, and adults that act like kids
