Delaware is a historic state, taking pride in being the first state of the newly formed nation to vote to ratify the Constitution of the United States. It contains 17 state parks despite being the second smallest state by land area in the country. One of the more popular among these, Bellevue State Park, also happens to be an excellent place to explore with your dog! The Bellevue State Park encompasses a total of 328 acres, offering a wide range of outdoor activities and sports facilities.Â
Much of the land was initially the estate of wealthy individuals, until 1976 when the state of Delaware purchased the estate and reintroduced it to the public as a state park. Currently, the Bellevue State Park offers maintained hiking trails, a fishing pond, tennis courts, basketball courts, a frisbee golf course, equestrian facilities, and an outdoor track and field.Â
Your dog is welcome to travel on a leash anywhere in the park, provided that you keep the park clean by picking up dog poop! There are many picnic areas with beautiful, sweeping views of the park, so pack a hearty lunch and pass the time by admiring the surrounding area! The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control manages Bellevue State Park, keeping it clean and available for all to freely use.Â
While you are visiting the Bellevue State Park, there are plenty of well-maintained restrooms, freshwater sources, and safe playgrounds for children in case you decide to bring the whole family along. In the winter, come prepared for snow activities, and during the summer, come for the summer concert series hosted at the Bellevue State Park’s amphitheater.Â
In all seasons, take your dog on hikes through the area’s paved or natural regions, and remember, there are over 300 acres of beautiful land to explore. No matter what time of year you come to visit, whether children are ice skating on the pond in the winter, or the leaves are changing color for the season in the fall, the Bellevue State Park is sure to amaze you.