Killens Pond State Park – Felton, Delaware
Located near Felton in Kent County, Killens Pond State Park is one of Delaware’s most popular state parks, centered around a 66-acre millpond and surrounded by over 1,600 acres of forest, wetlands, and recreation areas.
A Little History
Killens Pond dates back to the late 1700s, when a dam was built along the Murderkill River to power a gristmill. Like many Delaware ponds, it began as an industrial water source before transitioning into a recreational and conservation area.
The land was eventually added to Delaware’s state park system in the 1960s, and the park officially opened in 1965. Over time, it developed into one of the state’s most well-rounded outdoor destinations — part historic waterway, part family recreation hub.
Fun Delaware trivia:
The Murderkill River name doesn’t mean what it sounds like. “Kill” comes from the Dutch word kil, meaning creek or stream. So no crime scene vibes required.
What Makes Killens Pond Stand Out
This isn’t just a scenic pond. It’s a full-featured state park with year-round appeal.
🌊 The Pond Itself
- 66-acre millpond
- Canoeing and kayaking (rentals available seasonally)
- Fishing (largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish)
- Calm water ideal for beginners
🌳 Nature Center
The Killens Pond Nature Center is one of the best interpretive centers in Delaware’s park system.
It features:
- Live animal exhibits (snakes, turtles, amphibians)
- Environmental education programs
- Trails directly connected to the center
🚴 Trails
- 17+ miles of hiking trails
- Pondside boardwalk sections
- Scenic wetland overlooks
- Multi-use biking trails
The Pondside Trail is especially photogenic in fall.
🏕️ Camping & Cabins
Killens Pond is one of Delaware’s top camping destinations:
- RV and tent sites
- Year-round cabins
- Yurts
- Camp store
It’s a favorite for families who want “woods but not too wild.”
💦 Water Park
Yes — a water park. The Killens Pond Water Park includes:
- Water slides
- Leisure pool
- Tot lot
- Spray features
It’s one of the only state park water parks in the region, which makes it a summer magnet.
Ecological Importance
The park protects:
- Hardwood forests
- Wetlands
- The Murderkill River watershed
- Diverse bird populations
It serves as an important habitat corridor in central Delaware — especially for migratory birds and freshwater species.