Fort Delaware State Park

About

Fort Delaware State Park sits on Pea Patch Island in the Delaware River, a place where history feels close enough to touch. Built in the 1850s as a coastal defense, the massive granite and brick fortress served as a Union prison during the Civil War, holding up to 12,500 Confederate prisoners at its peak. Today, it's one of Delaware's most fascinating destinations, blending military history with natural beauty in a setting you won't find anywhere else in the state.

Getting there is part of the adventure. A ferry departs from Delaware City and carries visitors across the river to the island. Once you arrive, you'll find a world that feels removed from modern life. The fort itself is impressive - thick walls, arched casemates, and parade grounds that echo with stories of soldiers and prisoners from over 160 years ago. Living history interpreters in period clothing bring those stories to life, demonstrating camp life, cooking, and military drills throughout the season.

Beyond the fort's walls, Pea Patch Island is home to one of the largest heron rookeries on the East Coast. Birdwatchers come specifically to spot great blue herons, snowy egrets, and other wading birds nesting in the island's marshes. The contrast between the stern military architecture and the wild, bird-filled wetlands makes for a genuinely unique visit.

The park typically operates from late April through September, with ferry schedules varying by season. Special events include ghost tours, Civil War reenactments, and themed weekends that draw visitors from across the mid-Atlantic region. Plan to spend at least two to three hours on the island to fully explore the fort and grounds.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for an unusual day trip, Fort Delaware delivers an experience that's both educational and memorable. Few places let you stand inside a Civil War fortress on an island wildlife sanctuary, all within an easy drive from Wilmington, Philadelphia, or Baltimore.

Accessibility

Fort Delaware State Park is wheelchair accessible, according to Delaware State Parks. The fortress and its grounds have been adapted to welcome visitors with mobility needs. A wheelchair-accessible trail leading to a viewing platform has been under construction as part of Delaware's ongoing commitment to improving park accessibility.

The ferry ride from Delaware City to Pea Patch Island is part of the visitor experience, so those with mobility considerations should contact the park ahead of their visit to confirm current boarding procedures and any accommodations available for the boat transfer.

Delaware State Parks has expanded accessibility across its system in recent years, including an Action Trackchair program that deploys all-terrain wheelchairs at various state parks. These off-road chairs allow visitors to explore natural areas that standard wheelchairs can't easily reach. Contact the park directly to ask about Trackchair availability at Fort Delaware.

Restroom facilities are available on the island. Delaware State Parks has been upgrading restroom accessibility at parks statewide, including improvements at several locations.

For visitors with sensory needs, the outdoor island setting provides a relatively low-stimulation environment compared to indoor museums, though living history events and cannon demonstrations can produce loud sounds. Advance planning around event schedules may be helpful for noise-sensitive visitors.

Contact Fort Delaware State Park for current accessibility details, including specific information about ferry accessibility, trail conditions, and any seasonal programs designed for visitors with disabilities. The park staff can help coordinate your visit to ensure the best possible experience.

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)