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Rocky Run Wildlife Area adventures

Rocky Run Wildlife Area Adventures

Rocky Run Wildlife Area offers a diverse habitat for hunting, birdwatching, and hiking within New Castle County, Delaware, featuring woodlands, open fields, and wetlands that support a variety of wildlife species.

735
Acres Protected
5
Miles of Trails
10,000+
Annual Visitors
1967
Year Established

About Rocky Run Wildlife Area

 

Rocky Run Wildlife Area spans approximately 735 acres along the Brandywine Creek in northern Delaware, near Wilmington. This protected area is managed primarily for wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation, especially hunting and wildlife observation. The landscape includes mixed hardwood forests, open meadows, brushy fields, and riparian buffer zones along Rocky Run tributary, creating varied ecosystems that support white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, and numerous songbird species. Historically, the land was used for agriculture and milling, but it has since been restored to provide habitat for native flora and fauna. Visitors can explore multiple miles of maintained trails that wind through scenic woodlands and along streams, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and seasonal hunting. The area is also frequented by anglers targeting trout and other fish species in Rocky Run and adjoining watercourses. Seasonal activities include deer and waterfowl hunting in designated seasons, making it an important resource for Delaware’s game species management. The natural landscape and limited development provide a quiet setting for photography and wildlife observation. Rocky Run Wildlife Area's proximity to urban centers like Wilmington makes it a convenient destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a natural retreat. Its combination of diverse habitats, recreational opportunities, and conservation value makes it an important public resource within Delaware’s system of protected lands.

Highlights

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Rocky Run Trail – a scenic, moderate hiking route following the stream corridor

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Diverse wetland habitats supporting waterfowl and amphibians

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Popular deer and turkey hunting grounds during season

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Quiet streamside fishing spots along Rocky Run creek

Notable Natural Features

Rocky Run Creek

A small tributary flowing through the area, providing critical aquatic habitat and supporting trout populations.

Mixed Hardwood Forests

Forests composed of oak, hickory, and maple species that provide shelter and food for a variety of wildlife.

Seasonal Wetlands

Wetlands that serve as breeding grounds for amphibians and stopover habitat for migrating waterfowl.