Self-payment booth at Delaware State Parks, where fees are collected in the parking area. Photo credit: Delaware State Parks, destateparks.com
Delaware State Park officials say the updated entry fees is designed to balance access, affordability, and long-term sustainability.
Jamie Kleman | Contributing Writer | Delaware Live | December 2025
Delaware’s state park entry fees will rise in 2026, marking the first change to the fee structure in ten years. The update applies to daily entrance fees, annual passes, and the lifetime pass offered to senior residents. New passes and permits will be available beginning December 9, 2025, in advance of the upcoming spring season.
For inland parks, Delaware registered vehicles will pay 5 dollars per day, while out-of-state vehicles will pay 10 dollars. At beach parks, daily entry will cost $ 10 for Delaware-registered vehicles and $ 20 for vehicles registered elsewhere. Annual passes that provide access to all 17 Delaware state parks will cost 50 dollars for Delaware registered vehicles and 100 dollars for out of state vehicles. Seniors and active duty military members can receive discounted annual passes. The lifetime pass for Delaware residents age 65 and older will increase to 150 dollars. Fees for surf fishing permits will remain the same in 2026. The new daily entrance fees will go into effect on March 1, 2026.
State officials say the increase reflects the growing cost of maintaining parks and supporting visitor services. User fees currently fund about 65 percent of park operating expenses, and attendance has increased steadily. In 2024, the statewide parks system recorded roughly 7.4 million visits, a rise of almost 2 million compared with ten years ago. Higher visitation means more wear and tear on facilities, trails, restrooms, and public access areas, along with greater demand for maintenance crews, lifeguards, and seasonal staff.
As part of the decision-making process, public information sessions were held in each county, and surveys were circulated to gather opinions from residents and park visitors. Officials say support was generally strong for updating the fees to help preserve services. Many survey respondents said they preferred a modest increase compared with the possibility of reduced hours or fewer programs.
For Delaware residents who visit year-round, an annual pass may offer the best value. Families who go to the beach several times each summer or enjoy multiple trips to inland parks like Killens Pond, Trap Pond, or Lums Pond will likely save money by purchasing a pass. Seniors and military members are encouraged to review eligibility for discounted prices before selecting a pass option.
Park officials say the updated fee structure is designed to balance access, affordability, and long-term sustainability. They believe the change will help protect natural resources, support education programs, and keep Delaware’s parks safe, clean, and enjoyable for generations of visitors.
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