GC3VCAB FSC-2012 Cape Henlopen State Park (Traditional Cache) in Delaware, United States created by rehobch

GC3VCAB ▼

A cache by rehobch Message this owner

Hidden : 9/29/2012

Difficulty:

Terrain:

Size: Size: regular (regular)

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Geocache Description:

This cache was originally placed for the First State Challenge 2012 sponsored by Delaware Geocachers! Although the challenge has ended, this cache is still available to be found!!

FSC-2012 Cape Henlopen State Park

Cape Henlopen has always been a popular area, valuable for its natural resources as well as for commercial shipping, military defense, and recreation. Cape Henlopen's strategic location at the mouth of the Delaware Bay led to its role in local shipping and military history. The historic Henlopen Lighthouse no longer helps to guide vessels through the treacherous bay waters, but the two stone "breakwaters" barriers off the point of the Cape, completed in 1869 and 1901, still form a safe harbor for boats during rough seas.

With the onset of World War II, the U.S. Army established a military base at Cape Henlopen in 1941. Bunkers and gun emplacements were camouflaged among the dunes, and concrete observation towers were built along the coast to spot enemy ships. In 1964, the Department of Defense declared 543 acres of the Cape lands as surplus property. The State of Delaware accepted the property and established Cape Henlopen State Park.

Today, the 5193-acre park contains a wealth of natural beauty. In addition to the attractive bay and ocean beaches, the Gordon's Pond Wildlife Area features a unique saltwater impoundment. Along the coast, the Great Dune rises 80 feet above sea level, and further inland, the famous "walking dunes" slowly move across the pine forests. A broad salt marsh stretches along the park's western boundary. The variety of habitats within the park make it a valuable home to many species of birds, reptiles, and mammals. During the summer, the park protects nesting areas along the coastline for piping plovers, a threatened species of shorebird.

Hiking trails and interpretive displays throughout the park help visitors to learn about these fascinating natural features. In addition, several WWII-era bunkers provide scenic overlooks, and one of the concrete observation towers has been renovated to provide a panoramic view of the Cape.

Cache Details:
This regular size Lock&Lock is on State Park property and has been approved by Park Management. After entering the State Park, head toward Ft. Miles and keep going to the parking coords. There are trailhead coords and from there it is a short walk down a clear trail until the last 100 feet.

During summer months, tick repellent & bug spray are needed.

From March 1 thru November 30th, the park fees are $5 for state residents and $10 for out of state visitors. The park is open daily from 8 am to sunset. Your receipt for any one day is good for entry into all other Delaware State Parks on the same day.