LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth |
Out and About in Delaware's State Parks |
by Stephen Schilly |
Summer Fun for Everyone For most people, Memorial Day Weekend marks the "official" start of the summer season. The population of Delaware's resorts swells to the breaking point in one long weekend of enthusiastic revelry. For locals, this is a warning of the hectic, congested summer months to come. We are reminded of what "summer in the resorts" really means...sun, fun, crowds and chaos! Of course, following Memorial Day, the area returns to its relatively peaceful nature. For a few short weeks, we are lulled by smaller, more manageable crowds. Well, get ready...the real "SUMMER" is finally here! Throughout the Delaware state park system and especially at the beach parks, we have been busy handling the "fallout" from the holiday weekend. The renovation of the Gordons Pond parking lot continues, but the facility is now open daily to users. Seasonal staff are now on board, trained and ready to serve the needs of our park visitors. At home, things also have settled into a comfortable pattern. My partner Bob and I are still putting the finishing touches on our house. He recently surprised me by venturing into the "far reaches" of our half-acre wooded lot to help me blaze a trail for the next phase of landscaping. This was no small feat since Bob's urban upbringing had previously caused him to consider the woods "off limits." The fact that he didn't encounter any snakes or other unwanted creatures must have bolstered his courage. Several weeks later, on his own, he created a "secret garden" for me at the end of our new trail. This was unprecedented behavior! Bob also decided to make an effort to be more health conscious. Along with our neighbor Brenda, he has started to hike the boardwalk...two miles every day! A person who previously slept daily until 11 a.m. is now getting up faithfully at 7 a.m. to exercise...amazing! The walks have actually become something of a "social event," with various neighbors joining Bob and Brenda on their morning jaunts. It can be very comical to see the group cram themselves into Bob's jeep for the trip to the boardwalk. Of course, an important part of the ritual is a stop at Lori's Caf for coffee and toast. Frequently, the break takes longer than the entire walk! I've joined them on many weekends and I think they've hit on a great idea...fresh air and exercise in a beautiful setting, great fellowship with friends and neighbors, and the reward of the leisurely coffee break. What could be better? Of course, whenever I join the walks, state park issues are a frequent topic of conversation. On a recent expedition, our neighbor Greg wanted to know if the new legislation banning smoking in public buildings would have any effect on the state parks. The law does not address smoking in the out-of-doors and the Division of Parks and Recreation has no policy or regulation that prohibits the activity. However, we are launching a public education campaign to reduce litter on the beaches from cigarette butts and remind smokers to be respectful of other park visitors. Signs will soon be posted at many beach access points warning smokers that they run the risk of being fined if they use beach sand as an ashtray. I'm sure this topic will generate more comments-both pro and con-in the future. Last weekend I decided a change of pace was in order for the walking group. Following the break at Lori's Caf, I "hijacked" them and took them to Cape Henlopen State Park's Gordons Pond area to experience the three-quarter mile hike to the observation platform overlooking the pond. Everyone was amazed at the quality of the trail and the incredible beauty of the pond and marsh. I was especially pleased that they wanted to plan future visits to the area, as well as trying other park sites. In addition to hiking, there was even discussion of "dusting off" old bikes to travel longer, more challenging trails in the park. My mission was complete! Many people never take the time to discover the wide array of activities available in the parks. This is especially true of the coastal parks where the majority of visitors never make it beyond the beautiful beaches. While there is nothing wrong with enjoying the sand and surf, there are many wonderful opportunities awaiting the adventuresome visitor. Some examples at Cape Henlopen State Park include: Gordons Pond Trail. This hidden gem is located off the northwest corner of the parking area. It is a multi-use, accessible trail that hugs the perimeter of the large freshwater pond. Beautiful vistas greet hikers and bikers at the wildlife observation platform. It is well worth the effort! Main Park Multi-Use Trails. 4.9 miles of paved trails encircle the park, taking hikers, bicyclists and rollerbladers past incredible vistas and fascinating coastal habitats. Enjoy scenic overlooks from the highest points along the Delaware coast. Park Pedalers Program. You can enjoy the multi-use trails around the park on bikes borrowed from the Seaside Nature Center. They are available from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., first come-first served for up to two hours merely by leaving a driver's license as a guarantee. Bikes are suitable for ages 11 years or older. Disc Golf. An 18-hole course awaits players of all ages; bring your own discs or "Frisbees." The goal is to tee off from designated pads and take the fewest throws to land your disc in metal baskets. Great fun for all ages and skill levels! Delaware Breakwater Kayak Trip. One of the most exciting of Cape Henlopen's adventures is the naturalist-led kayak trip around the Delaware breakwater and Lewes harbor that launches at 10 a.m. each Wednesday through Sunday at the park's fishing pier. Participants, who must be at least 16, will receive basic instruction before heading out for two hours of paddling. These trips are designed for beginners but can be strenuous depending on water and wind conditions. All equipment is provided. The expeditions are $25 per person and pre-registration is required by contacting the Seaside Nature Center at 302-645-6852. Bring plenty of drinking water and be prepared to get wet. So, there you have it...lots of new and exciting activities to enjoy over the summer months. Whatever you choose, have fun but remember to play safe! Best wishes for a wonderful July 4th! For information about park programs and activities, visit www.destateparks.com. And if you have any questions or suggestions for future topics, e-mail me at stephen.schilly@state.de.us. Or look for me at the beach!Stephen Schilly is Park Operations Administrator Delaware Division of Parks and Recreation. |
LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth, Vol. 12, No. 08, June 28, 2002. |