Broadkill River shoreline & dip-netting

About

The Broadkill River winds through southern Delaware before meeting the Delaware Bay near the town of Milton, creating a shoreline environment rich with marine life, salt marsh views, and hands-on outdoor fun. Dip-netting along the Broadkill is a beloved local tradition, especially during the annual horseshoe crab spawning season when the shallow waters teem with activity.

Visitors can wade into calm, shallow stretches of the river's edge to scoop up small fish, crabs, and other creatures with simple hand nets. It's an activity that works beautifully for families, kids, and anyone who enjoys a direct connection with coastal wildlife. The Broadkill's gentle current and gradual shoreline make it far more approachable than open ocean beaches.

The surrounding area is part of Delaware's broader network of state parks and wildlife areas, which have been investing significantly in accessibility improvements. Prime spots for shoreline access include areas near Broadkill Beach and the trails connecting to Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge. The salt marshes and tidal flats here support an incredible variety of birds, so bring binoculars if birding is your thing.

Spring is the star season, when horseshoe crabs arrive to spawn and shorebirds descend by the thousands to feed. But the Broadkill offers rewarding visits year-round, from summer paddling to fall foliage along the wooded stretches upstream.

Practical tips: Bring water shoes, sunscreen, and a bucket for your catches (catch and release is encouraged). The town of Milton is just a short drive away with restaurants, shops, and restrooms. Free parking is available at several access points along the river. If you're new to dip-netting, it's as simple as it sounds. A small mesh net, a curious spirit, and a willingness to get your feet wet are all you need.

This stretch of Delaware's coast proves that some of the best outdoor experiences don't require a boat, a permit, or expensive gear. Just show up, step in, and see what the river brings you.

Accessibility

Delaware State Parks has been actively expanding accessibility across its coastal and riverfront areas, with a strategic plan targeting 75 new accessible amenities through 2026. These improvements include mobility mats, beach wheelchairs, adaptive kayak launches, paved paths, and accessible campsites throughout the state park system.

For shoreline access along the Broadkill River area, Delaware State Parks offers specialized all-terrain beach wheelchairs with oversized balloon-style tires designed to glide over sand and shallow water. These chairs allow visitors with mobility challenges to reach the shoreline with greater ease and independence. Availability may vary by location and season, so calling ahead to reserve a beach wheelchair is strongly recommended.

Several access points near the Broadkill feature packed gravel or paved parking areas. Some trailheads in the surrounding wildlife refuge areas have boardwalks and firm-surface paths, though conditions can vary depending on the specific access point you choose.

The shallow, calm nature of the Broadkill's shoreline is inherently more accessible than many coastal destinations. The gradual slope and soft bottom mean that assisted wading is possible for many visitors who might find ocean surf too challenging.

Restroom availability varies by location. Developed state park areas typically have accessible restroom facilities, while more remote access points may not. The nearby town of Milton offers accessible public restrooms and services.

Contact Delaware State Parks directly at (302) 739-9220 for current details on beach wheelchair availability, specific accessible access points along the Broadkill River, and seasonal program offerings. Conditions at natural shoreline areas can change with weather and tides, so checking current conditions before your visit is always a good idea.

More accessible places in Delaware

• Delaware Art Museum (Wilmington)
• Biggs Museum of American Art (Dover)
• Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village (Dover)
• Delaware Museum of Nature and Science (Wilmington)
• Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library (Winterthur)
• Longwood Gardens (across PA but major draw) (Wilmington)