Redden State Forest - Headquarters Tract

The Headquarters Tract features a prominent 4-mile loop trail, which also serves as a wildlife sanctuary and educational path. While the broader Redden State Forest offers over 44 miles of trails, the Headquarters Tract provides a mix of maintained gravel or dirt paths and smaller, more rustic routes. Most trails are considered easy to moderate, suitable for a range of activities from leisurely walks to more active hiking and cycling. The terrain is generally flat, typical of Delaware's coastal plain, so significant elevation changes are not a factor.

Yes, beyond the diverse Loblolly pine and mixed hardwood forests, visitors can explore the historic Redden Lodge, built in 1877, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Natural Resource Education Facility, housed in a former carriage house, also offers insights into local ecology. While there aren't traditional 'viewpoints' due to the forest's flat nature, the varied landscape includes swamps and meadows, offering different natural vistas. Keep an eye out for the small, catch-and-release fishing pond.

Ample parking is available at the Headquarters Tract, located at 18074 Redden Forest Drive, Georgetown, DE 19947. Access is straightforward from US-113. There are no entry fees or permits required for general day use activities like hiking, biking, or bird watching. However, if you plan to use the primitive campsites, reservations are required.

Yes, Redden State Forest - Headquarters Tract is suitable for winter hiking. The forest is open year-round, and its trails offer a peaceful experience during the colder months. While the 'bloom' of spring and summer is vibrant, winter provides a different kind of beauty with starker landscapes and potentially less crowded trails. Always check local weather conditions and dress appropriately for cold weather.

The Headquarters Tract is very family-friendly, offering easy-to-navigate trails and educational opportunities at the Natural Resource Education Facility. Dogs are generally welcome on the trails, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pets to maintain the forest's natural beauty for all visitors.

Redden State Forest - Headquarters Tract is located in a more rural area north of Georgetown, DE. While there are no cafes or pubs directly within the forest, Georgetown offers various dining options and amenities a short drive away. For accommodation, primitive tent camping is available within the Headquarters Tract itself (reservations required), and other lodging options can be found in nearby towns like Georgetown or Milford.

The forest is home to a variety of wildlife. Birdwatchers can spot species such as Worm-eating Warblers and Summer Tanagers. Deer sightings are common, and the forest's diverse habitats, including swamps and meadows, support a range of other animals. The inner loop trail is designated as a wildlife sanctuary, offering enhanced opportunities for observation.

Yes, the area around the visitor center and certain sections of the trails at Redden State Forest - Headquarters Tract are wheelchair accessible. This ensures that a wider range of visitors can enjoy the natural environment and facilities.

The Headquarters Tract offers eighteen primitive campsites for tent camping. These sites require reservations and provide a rustic experience, meaning there are no electric, water, or septic hookups. However, trash dumpsters, water spigots, and firewood are available for campers. You can find more information and make reservations through the Delaware Forest Service website.

While Redden State Forest - Headquarters Tract offers a peaceful retreat, it can experience higher visitor numbers on weekends, especially during pleasant weather in spring, summer, and fall. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to ensure a more serene experience and easier parking, particularly during peak seasons.

Redden State Forest - Headquarters Tract has a rich history, deeply tied to the railroad. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The iconic Redden Lodge, built in 1877, originally served as a retreat for railroad executives. The land itself was acquired by the State Forestry Department in 1936, and the forest's name honors Col. William O. Redden, who was instrumental in establishing Delaware's railroad system.