State parks isn't really a park anymore if it comes with trails and a lot of wild growth to where it's just wilderness with walking paths.
At least that's what it is to me. I was fortunate or unfortunate to be here at the Killens Pond state park on a balmy winter day in January 28 2023 for a low key running event that uses the park's trail system as the course. We were out in rural Delaware and there's nothing like being out in the wilderness. With that said, the circumference of the park itself was about 3.12 miles around thru their trail system. You could definitely get lost in the wilderness here if you aren't too careful, especially without a light at night. That happened to me but fortunately, I had a light which was my phone. The trails itself was well maintained and the scenery was nice and gorgeous for that time of year. I was genuinely surprised that it wasn't snowing or had record low temperatures that weekend I was there, especially in the winter months. I guess being Delaware is close enough to the ocean, it gets by without real winter white stuff on any given year. The park itself is maintained by the good folks at the Delaware state park system. The park opened up for us around 8am that day and it was a nice day to be had. No rain just a lot of fun and miles around the state park perimeter thru the trail system. The entire trail system showcases various views of the lake. Not until you see the cabins that you'll be in full view of the lake and of course when you're traversing over the aluminum bridge. The lake was calm that day and the sunset was inspiring over the lake. It was definitely a highlight of the day in my short stay here in Delaware.
The overall experience here at the Killens Pond state park near Harrington, Delaware was nice although eventful. I didn't know that there was wild animals creeping around here. I guess I was just that naïve to think that nothing is out there, especially at night. Yup, I was attacked in the dark by a raccoon that was probably protecting its young when I happened to be walking on the trails at night. No bites or scratches just lucky to get out of that situation unscathed without needing medical attention. The trails look so different at night, but I found my way out with the help of fellow runners. Once I got to the aluminum bridge for the final time of the night, I thanked everything that is holy that I was safe and sound. It was nice to see the cabins, which marked practically halfway along the course that circumvented the park itself. I knew that passing that halfway point was a mental game that keeps me going in this park. For the most part, though minus the incident, I I am happy that I came to Delaware and this park to do my running events. Well, this is a state park, but be fair warn that anything you do at night is very questionable. If you have to be out on the trails at night, just be aware that raccoons and other wildlife are out there. I should know I got encountered and attacked by one.
Killens Pond State Park is located in Harrington, Delaware. Its entrance is about 6 miles from the casino on Corn Cribb Road in Harrington. The main entrance has a guard gate and a large parking lot for park users. There is a small parking lot next to the aluminum bridge for people who do boating on the lake. Not sure if the park charges fees during the winter months, but the guess it was included with my race event registration. At least I didn't have to pay additional during my time here. Best to check the official park website for the full details of parking and the price of admission before heading on over. For the most part though, the experience was better than the incident. While it was unfortunate what had happened to me, it's a lesson to anyone and everyone that we live amongst wild animals, even in state parks. And so, best thing to do to access the park is to have your own vehicle for pure convenience. There is Amtrak service I nearby i think, but it travels north to Wilmington DE before it branches off to the other cities. And so, if your travels takes you to this slice of paradise, come for the love of trails and all things nature. Just be aware of things if you walk around in the dark. Carry a light!
5.0 stars for the overall experience, the incident notwithstanding.
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