Fee season is back at Delaware State Parks

Fees are once again being collected at Delaware state parks, to ensure the preservation and maintenance of them.

DNREC’s Division of Parks and Recreation reminds visitors to Delaware’s state parks that entrance fees are being collected now, through November 30. Officials say revenue from the park entrance fees, is used to manage 16 state parks and more than 26,000 acres of state park lands.

Delaware’s state parks are primarily self-funded, according to Officials, with 65% of that revenue coming from park users. The revenue is apparently used to operate and maintain the properties, including trail maintenance, environmental and recreational programs, visitor amenities, guarded beaches, and management of campgrounds, and cabins.

Daily park entrance fees for vehicles registered in Delaware are $4 at inland parks, and $5 at ocean parks, while fees for out-of-state vehicles are $8 at inland parks, and $10 at ocean parks. Officials ask that where fee attendants are not on duty, visitors deposit the daily fee in the self-registration envelopes provided at park entrances, and put them into the secured drop box.

“For just $35, Delaware residents can enjoy unlimited park visits to get their children outdoors and to enjoy the parks with friends and family,” said Ray Bivens, Director of Delaware State Parks. “I’d want to thank all those who support our efforts to preserve and protect open space, improve services and expand recreational opportunities.  As we celebrate the 65th anniversary of Delaware State Parks, it is truly the support of Delawareans and visitors to our state that has been the cornerstone of a wonderfully diverse parks system.”

Annual park passes can be purchased on the Delaware State Parks website, at all state park offices, and at DNREC’s main office in the Richardson & Robbins building at 89 Kings Highway in Dover.