Delaware, the second smallest state of the U.S, boasts of over 30 lakes, each standing out from the other in scenic beauty. Located within a park or a national refuge area, they offer a calm, serene atmosphere, making them an excellent place to spend some peaceful time. Some provide birding and wildlife watching opportunities, while others feature beaches and picnic spots to spend a relaxing time. They are also kid-friendly, consisting of many playgrounds for enjoyment. Though recreational activities are limited compared to the other states, you will have a great time with the mesmerizing views and the clean environment.
This lake, along with Silver Lake Park, located in Dover, is a family-friendly one. The beach area is ideal for splashing waters or sitting back and watching the ducks and swans wading in it. If you haven’t brought a boat, you can rent one from Dockside Boat Rentals and explore the waters. You can also have a hearty meal in the picnic area equipped with picnic tables and barbeque grills.
Fishing: You can enjoy fishing for largemouth bass, crappie, carp, catfish, bluegill, striped bass, and white perch.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, picnicking, hiking
It is the state’s largest reservoir located in New Castle County. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a tranquil experience to those visiting it. The northeast part of the lake has the Valley Garden Park, featuring pretty gardens, walking trails, and plenty of open spaces. However, it is a lesser-visited lake due to the difficulty in accessing it. Also, it is not much accessible to public recreation yet as its primary purpose is to supply water to the Northern Delaware residents.
Fishing: Do not attempt to fish here lest you’ll have to pay a heavy fine.
Other Activities: Nature-gazing, birdwatching, hiking
Located in the state’s southwestern end, Trap Pond is a picturesque water body within a park of the same name. You can enjoy an hour’s guided boat tour to admire the cypress swamps and see many cemeteries and an old church. Also, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard here and launch your boats from the boat ramp. Bird lovers can also have an excellent time spotting several birds like great blue herons, woodpeckers, owls, warblers, and bald eagles. There are many trails available for hiking enthusiasts to explore. Don’t forget to check out the Bald Cypress Nature Center to see the various informative exhibits. Staying at any of the 140 campsites amidst the pine trees and near the pond is the perfect way to spend the night.
There is an entry fee of $4 per vehicle for Delaware residents and $8 for non-residents.
Fishing: Anglers commonly catch largemouth bass, chain pickerel, bluegill, crappie, yellow perch, and catfish. You need to possess a fishing license and acquire a permit.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, camping, hiking, nature gazing, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, camping, picnicking
It is a newly constructed reservoir that mainly provides water supply to the city, Newark. Apart from hosting the swimming event of the annual triathlon, the reservoir prohibits any other recreational activity. However, you can explore the surrounding trails. Don’t miss hiking the 1.8-mile trail to get a stunning view of the city and its encompassing areas. It will also lead you to William M. Redd, Jr. Park, where you can enjoy the scenic landscape.
Fishing: There is a prohibition on fishing in this reservoir.
Other Activities: Hiking, nature gazing
The state’s largest freshwater pond, it sits within Lums Pond State Park. You can spend some ideal time kayaking in its quaint waters. If you’re bringing dogs, you can visit the dog park for them to have some fun time. Moreover, the adventure-seekers can try the Go Ape Treetop Adventure course to enjoy zip-lining over the pond and across the hardwood forests. Visitors also enjoy camping in primitive campsites that are clean and spacious, providing splendid views. You will have to pay $4 per vehicle if you’re from Delaware or $8 if you’re a non-resident.
Fishing: Many fish species dwell here, including black crappie, white crappie, largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, and perch.
Other Activities: Swimming, kayaking, boating, canoeing, sailing, camping, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, zip-lining
This pond in Sussex County was long back a dwelling place of the Nanticoke Indians. At present, you can enjoy many recreational activities here. There is a boat ramp from where you can launch your kayak or canoe. To rent a boat, you can go to the Delmarva Adventure Sports. It is also an excellent place to sit back and relax while enjoying the picturesque views. The lake is also an abode for the birdwatchers because of the bald eagle and waterfowl thriving here.
Fishing: You will be able to fish the largemouth bass, black crappie, white perch, yellow perch, pickerel, and pumpkinseed.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, camping, hiking, hunting, birdwatching, nature gazing
Lake Como in Smyrna is well-known for its swimming spot and other water activities, rare in most Delaware lakes. With lifeguards supervising the beach area, it is also a safe place for kids to access the waters. You can also enjoy a family picnic in the picnic areas by the lakeside or visit the neighboring Blackbird Forest to get lost in nature’s abode for a short while.
Fishing: The lake features an abundant stock of largemouth bass, crappie, white perch, catfish, bluegill, perch, pumpkinseed, and pickerel.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, picnicking, camping, hiking
This 66-acre pond flows along the Murderkill River. Surrounded by a state park of the same name, you can enjoy various recreational activities here. It also features a water park where kids and adults have a great time on the speed slides and the pool. For out-of-the-water activities, you can walk along the 2.6-mile Pondside Loop Trail to get scenic vistas of the hardwood forest. There is an 18-hole disc golf course within the park where you can play a match. With campgrounds at the pond’s southern side, you can enjoy spending the night listening to the soothing sound of the waters.
Fishing: This lake has many fish species, including largemouth bass, catfish, perch, crappie, bluegill, carp, and pickerel.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, canoeing, kayaking, camping, hiking, cross-country skiing, cycling, wildlife watching
Also known as Laurel Lake, Records Pond is a shallow body of water with a maximum depth of 10 feet. You can rent a boat from Trap Pond State Park Marina and access the waters from the northern shore. The surrounding lush foliage makes the lake incredibly scenic.
Fishing: Anglers can find several fish species in this pond, including largemouth bass, crappie, pumpkinseed, bluegill, bullhead, pickerel, white perch, and yellow perch.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, camping
This pond flows within Becks Pond Park in New Castle County amidst the scenic trees and grass. Picnicking with your loved ones would be an ideal way to spend time here, especially during summer. Kids will also love playing in the small playground. A boat launch is available for accessing the waters with your boat.
Fishing: Anglers can find several fish species in this pond, such as largemouth bass, crappie, pumpkinseed, bluegill, bullhead, pickerel, white perch, and yellow perch.
Other Activities: Swimming, boating, kayaking, camping, picnicking
Shearness Pool is a large impoundment of about 560 acres within Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge. This place is a paradise for avid bird watchers. Carry your binoculars to spot the winter fowl, snow geese, American black ducks, great egrets, wood ducks, common yellowthroat, and warblers. You can also see wildlife like the red fox, rodents, and turtles.
You will have to drive along the Auto Tour Road from Bombay Hook’s visitor center to get to this place. You will find many more pools, trails, and observation towers along the way that provides excellent opportunities to capture the bird views. There is an entry fee of $4 per motorcycle or car and $2 for hikers and cyclists.
Fishing: Fishing is not permitted within the national refuge area.
Other Activities: Birdwatching, wildlife viewing, picnicking, hiking
Gordon Pond is a marsh area within Cape Henlopen State Park. It is a tranquil spot best for observing various wildlife and bird species. You can also enjoy a relaxing time here, having a meal at the nearby pavilion. Though there is a restriction on water activities as it inhabits many species, you can hike to the neighboring Rehoboth Beach to have fun in the waters. In addition, you’ll also find campgrounds within the state park to stay overnight. There is also a Gordons Pond State Park Area at the pond’s south end, featuring a clean, secluded beach. You can bring your dog here and take in the views.
To get to the pond, you can take Ocean Drive from the north end of the Rehoboth Beach or enter from east of Cape May–Lewes Ferry. An admission fee of $5 per car for Delaware residents and $10 for non-residents is required.
Fishing: Since it is a shallow marsh, no much fishing is observed here. However, you can enjoy fishing bluefish, croaker, snapper, pinfish, porgies, and flounder in other spots within the state park.
Other Activities: Wildlife watching, birdwatching, nature-gazing, picnicking, hiking
A few minute’s drive from downtown Dover will bring you to this large lake. Paddling here and admiring the scenery is a sought-after activity. The water might seem muddy but is excellent for fishing. You can also enjoy strolling or cycling along the trail around the lake.
Fishing: The lake contains many fish species, including largemouth bass, bluegill, brown bullhead, channel catfish, yellow perch, black crappie, and pumpkinseed.
Other Activities: Paddling, hiking, cycling, picnicking, nature-gazing
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Lake Gerar is a freshwater lake encompassed by a park. You can have a relaxing time at the neighboring Rehoboth Beach. Also, walk along the broadway to explore the area. With a shaded playground at the park’s northeast section, kids can enjoy sliding and swinging. You can also have a family get-together and picnic at the picnic area. Moreover, the Navigator’s Park nearby, boasting an Italian garden, is a must-visit.
Fishing: Largemouth bass, black crappie, blacktip sharp, bull shark, pumpkinseed, and bluegill are commonly available here.
Other Activities: Swimming, hiking, camping, picnicking, nature-gazing
TOP PICKS
Best Lakes for Fishing: Trap Pond, Becks Pond, Killens Pond
Best Lakes for Boating: Lums Pond, Trap Pond, Becks Pond
Best Lakes for Camping: Lums Pond, Killens Pond, Trap Pond
Best Lakes to Live On: Silver Lake, Gordon’s Pond, Becks Pond
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