fort dupont state park

Fortifications of Fort DuPont were built as early as 1863. Additions and improvements continued into the 1900’s. Named for Rear Admiral Samuel Francis du Pont, Fort DuPont was one of several forts built to protect settlements along the Delaware River and the ports of Wilmington and Philadelphia from attacks by enemy ships. The fort was in service from the Civil War through World War II. Following World War II, the fort was given to the State of Delaware. Portions of the land became Fort DuPont State Park in 1992.Fort DuPont is located off Route 9 just south of Delaware City. Parts of it border on Port Penn; parts of it are in Port Penn. The park has over 300 acres along the scenic Delaware River and the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal. It’s open daily from 8:00 AM to sunset.Day use fees are $3.00 for Delaware-registered vehicles and $6.00 for out-of-state vehicles.Chief recreational activities include boating, fishing, hiking, and picnicking. The park also has tennis and basketball courts.Facilities include a boat ramp, picnic tables, and portable toilets. The park is wheelchair accessible.The Port Penn Trail, a 9/10-mile trail one way, is part of this park. The trailhead is across the road from the Port Penn Interpretive Center. The trail crosses a tidal marsh in the Augustine Wildlife Management Area where hunting is permitted. It’s strongly advisable to check hunting seasons before hiking this trail. During my visit, I did not venture far down the Port Penn Trail because I could hear hunters in the woods nearby. My visit was spur-of-the moment because, as I drove down scenic Route 9 from the north en route to Smyrna and Dover, I discovered the historic Port Penn Schoolhouse that is now the Port Penn Interpretive Center which is associated with this state park. And, one thing led to another. It was near the height of fall foliage season so the trees were colorful. I’m sure that this park is even prettier in the spring and summer months.If you found this review helpful, kindly click YES below.