The Blackbird Creek Reserve component of the Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve (DNERR) is located upstream from Delaware Route 9 at Taylors Bridge in Townsend, New Castle County.

The Blackbird Creek Reserve is on the Delaware Bayshore Byway and includes trails, pavilion and canoe/kayak launch.

The Blackbird Creek Reserve boasts several miles of trails through uplands and along the marsh, a canoe/kayak launch, restoration demonstration areas as well as a variety of programs and volunteer opportunities for the community, teachers, students, and families.

801 Blackbird Landing Road
Townsend, DE
302-378-5734

Directions from the north or from the south

The Grounds
Dawn to dusk, 7 days a week. (Note hunting season closures)

About the Reserve

Map of the Reserve

Trail Map

The Reserve also supports ongoing research and monitoring, field studies, citizen monitoring programs, and training opportunities for coastal decision makers.

The Reserve actively manages over 400 acres along the Blackbird Creek. The grounds are open to the public from dawn until dusk 7 days a week and free of charge.

Please take note of posted signs during hunting seasons which may result in closure of some areas. And don’t forget that privately-owned land cannot be accessed without landowner permission.

Features

The Blackbird Creek Reserve has several miles of trails through uplands, along the marsh and restoration demonstration areas with plenty of opportunities for hiking, birding as well as nature and wildlife photography.

A canoe/kayak launch at the Reserve provides public to access the Blackbird Creek seven days a week from dawn till dusk. Please take note of posted signs.

Limited hunting is allowed on the Blackbird Creek Reserve by permits issued by the Division of Fish and Wildlife.

The annual Blackbird Creek Fall Festival is held the third Saturday in October each year.

Related Topics:  blackbird creek, coastal, conservation, DNERR, estuaries, management, ocean and coasts, stewardship