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Delaware Department of
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Forest Campsites

Delaware’s state forest campsites are open to the public under an online reservation system that allows for advance booking and preferred site selection. Primitive-style camping is available 365 days a year at both Blackbird State Forest, north of Smyrna, and Redden State Forest, north of Georgetown.

State forests only allow tent camping: pickup campers, travel trailers, and/or self-propelled motor homes are excluded due to access and parking limitations unless otherwise noted.

Each state forest has a total of sixteen (16) at Blackbird and eighteen (18) at Redden. There is no camping available at Taber State Forest. All camping requires a permit and is subject to state forest rules and regulations. View both Blackbird and Redden campsite maps below.

  • Camping is available by online reservation only: sites are limited and permits required. Valid major credit card required. The Reservation Confirmation is your Camping permit.
  • No formal check-in is required for tent camping. Check-in begins at 1 p.m., check-out is at 11 a.m.
  • ADA sites and small-medium camper van accessible sites available at a first come first serve basis.
  • State Forest Camping is Primitive. NO electric, NO water and NO septic hookups available at the sites.
  • State Forests have trash dumpsters, water spickets, and firewood available at designated areas.
  • It is $5 cash sale for firewood – no other form of payment is accepted for wood.
  • $25 per night fee for each site at Blackbird or Redden State Forest. There is a three night maximum stay per reservation.
  • A small administrative fee of $3.50 will apply at time of booking, and again if a cancellation occurs.

  • Camping is by permit only and restricted to map-designated campsites.
  • Camping permits are available using the online reservation link, or contact forest offices.
  • Reservations are required before the arrival date.
  • Campsites are primitive and used ONLY for tent camping. Pickup campers, travel trailers, and/or self-propelled motor homes are excluded due to access and parking limitations, unless otherwise noted by a state forest employee.
  • Except for animals permitted under lawful hunting regulations, all animals must be under the continuous control of the owner(s) unless otherwise authorized in writing by the Forestry Administrator. All dogs must be leashed unless covered by the exception above. Visitors are responsible for the conduct and any personal or property damages caused by their animals.
  • State forests are “multiple-use facilities,” which means other activities will continue while you camp. These activities include hiking, permitted hunting, catch-and-release fishing, horseback riding, nature study, firewood cutting (by permit only), timber harvesting and picnicking. The Delaware Forest Service reserves the right to limit or deny permits during times of conflicting use.
  • Firewood for camp use is available for purchase onsite, and no outside firewood is permitted. Please refer to the camping map for its location. If more firewood is needed, it may be gathered locally from dead and downed trees. Standing trees or shrubs shall not be cut. Using firewood outside the office complex’s designated area is prohibited. Campfires shall be contained within established fire rings only.
  • Campsites equipped with tables, fire pits, and charcoal grills. Campsites are limited to a maximum number of six (6) people per site, with two (2) vehicles per site, overflow parking is provided nearby the parking areas. 
  • Camper(s) must remove their trash upon vacating their campsite and drop it off at the designated dumpster located on the camping map. Campsites are to be left clean, and all fires must be extinguished before departing from the area. Failure to adhere to these regulations will result in the camper’s removal and the assessment of fees for damage and cleanup.

    • Accessible BBQ Grills
    Accessible BBQ Grills

     

    Picnic Tables
    Picnic Tables

     

    Fire Rings
    Fire Rings

     

    Firewood
    Firewood (if available)

     

    Portable Toilets
    Portable Toilets

    *No showers or bath facilities provided*

    Camping is at your own risk. State Forests are a public use area with no after-hours, nighttime, or weekend security. Law enforcement is provided by the Delaware State Police and the Department of Natural Resources Police should the need arise. State Forest Rules and Regulations are to be followed.

    We encourage everyone to get outdoors and enjoy nature; however, there are inherent risks. These risks include but are not limited to insects, poisonous plants and berries, uneven terrain, weather, and wildlife. While experiencing the wilderness, you cannot eliminate every risk, we urge you to take precautions to reduce the likelihood you are impacted.

    Insects

    • Don’t leave home without an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for reapplication times.
    • When outside, wear shoes, light-colored long-sleeved shirts, and pants. Dress your child in clothing that covers arms and legs. Light color clothing makes ticks easier to see.
    • Use permethrin (an insecticide) to treat clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not apply to skin.
    • When returning from outdoor activities, check for ticks and remove any from the skin with tweezers as soon as possible to reduce the chance of disease transmission.

     

    Campsites are open to the public.

     

    Camping is a great way to experience the natural wonder and majesty of Delaware’s forests. Take a hike and explore miles of wooded trails. Observe wildlife among the towering trees. Enjoy a picnic and cook a barbeque. Relax with a heartwarming campfire. Sleep under the stars.

    State forest camping reservation link

    For questions about Blackbird State Forest or Redden State Forest, email DDA_ForestService@delaware.gov, or call 302-698-4547.

     

    Pavilions at Blackbird and Redden

    Redden Forest pavilion
    O.D. Bailey Pavilion at Redden State Forest

    Blackbird State Forest and Redden State Forest offer pavilions for multiple purposes.

    • Usage of pavilions are first‐come, first‐serve basis, year‐round.
    • Permit is required for groups of 10 or more. Pavilion rental is available by online reservation. Valid major credit card required.
    • Blackbird State Forest offers two pavilions, located at the Tybout tract and at the Blackbird Education Center.
    • Redden State Forest offers three pavilions – The O.D. Bailey pavilion near the Redden Education Center, and two historic pavilions, Ellendale and Jester, located along Route 113. No portable toilet/s are available at the Ellendale and Jester pavilions.




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