Delaware State Parks Fee Season Begins March 1, Launching 75th Anniversary Celebration

DOVER, Del. – The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control announced that the 2026 fee season for Delaware State Parks will officially begin March 1, kicking off a year-long celebration of the park system’s 75th Anniversary.

To mark the milestone, the DNREC Division of Parks and Recreation is planning a full calendar of special events, activities and programs throughout the year. Many anniversary events will be free with paid park entrance, making an annual pass one of the most cost-effective ways to enjoy all 17 state parks during the 2026 season.

2026 Delaware State Parks Entrance Fees

With fee season beginning March 1 and running through Nov. 30, daily vehicle entrance fees are:

Delaware-registered vehicles:

• $5 at inland parks

• $10 at beach parks

Out-of-state vehicles:

• $10 at inland parks

• $20 at ocean parks

Deauville Beach:

• $15 weekdays

• $20 weekends

• $115 annual pass

Annual passes are available for:

• $50 for Delaware residents

• $100 for non-residents

An annual pass provides unlimited access to all 17 Delaware State Parks and can pay for itself in 10 visits or fewer.

Discounted Passes and Online Purchases

Discount annual passes are available for active-duty military members, veterans and other qualifying individuals, groups and athletic teams.

Passes can be purchased online at destateparks.com, where buyers will receive a virtual pass valid for up to 30 days until the physical pass arrives by mail.

New Payment Options and Parking Validation

In response to visitor feedback, DNREC is expanding payment options for daily entrance in 2026. In addition to cash and credit card stations, mobile pay via QR codes will be available at select park locations.

The state will also implement routine parking validation. Visitors must display proof of daily payment, annual pass, lifetime pass or other permit. Lifetime pass holders must be present in the vehicle and show identification when requested.

Surf Fishing Permits and Reservations

One- and two-year surf fishing permits are currently on sale for residents and non-residents, with senior discounts available. These permits allow unlimited park access along with surf fishing privileges.

Off-peak surf fishing permits allow access Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. Recognized 2026 holidays include:

• Memorial Day

• Juneteenth

• July 4

• Labor Day

Surf fishing reservations will be required on weekends and holidays at select drive-on beaches, including:

• Gordons Pond, Herring Point, Navy Crossing and Point Crossing at Cape Henlopen State Park

• 3 Rs at Delaware Seashore State Park

Reservations are no longer required at Key Box, Conquest and Faithful Steward beaches at Delaware Seashore, as well as York, Middle and South beaches at Fenwick Island State Park, and Beach Plum Island north of Lewes.

Supporting Delaware’s Parks and Natural Resources

Park users generate approximately 65 percent of the revenue needed to operate and maintain more than 27,000 acres of Delaware state parkland. That funding supports:

• Trail maintenance

• Environmental and recreational programs

• Historic preservation

• Natural resource protection

• Beach patrols

• Campgrounds and cabins

• Visitor amenities

As Delaware State Parks celebrates 75 years, officials say the 2026 fee season and anniversary programming will provide expanded opportunities for residents and visitors to explore, learn and enjoy the outdoors across the First State.