Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Delaware.

The Delaware Reserve encompasses over 6,000 acres from the freshwater wetlands, ponds and forest lands of the Blackbird Creek Reserve to the salt marsh, mudflats, tidal creeks and open water habitats of the St Jones Reserve and Delaware Bay. The Delaware Bay provides habitat for many species of waterfowl, finfish, as well as clams, oysters and crabs. It has the second largest concentration of migrating shorebirds in the Western Hemisphere and the largest population of spawning horseshoe crabs in the world. The Delaware Reserve promotes the stewardship of estuarine and coastal areas through research and education.

Nearby Activities

Biking
Boating
Documentary Site
Fish Viewing Site
Fishing
Hiking
Historic & Cultural Site
Hunting
Information Site
Interpretive Programs
Paddling
Photography
Swimming
Visitor Center
Wildlife Viewing

Directions

The St. Jones Reserve component is located six miles southeast of Dover. The Blackbird Creek component is located in southern New Castle County.

Additional Information

Photo Gallery

Camp, RV, and Explore Outdoors

Recreation.gov is your gateway to explore America's outdoor and cultural destinations in your zip code and across the country. We provide tools and tips to discover new adventures through a one-stop shop for inspiration and ideation, trip planning, information sharing, and reservations. Find incredible places and experiences that help you bring home a story through Recreation.gov!