Delaware Rivers And Lakes

Though a small state, Delaware has several important rivers within its borders.

Delaware River

The Delaware River forms a major part of Delaware's western border with New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Facts about the Delaware River:

• It originates in New York and flows over 300 miles to Delaware Bay.
• The river passes through the cities of New Castle, Delaware and Chester, Pennsylvania.
• It was key for early colonial trade and transport between Pennsylvania and the Atlantic Ocean.
• Today it provides drinking water, commercial shipping access, and recreational activities.

Brandywine River

The Brandywine River flows through northern Delaware into the Christina River. Details about the Brandywine River:

• It originates in Pennsylvania and flows south into Wilmington, Delaware.
• The Brandywine powered early industry such as mills and a gunpowder plant.
• The river is known for its beauty, flowing through the Brandywine Valley.

Mispillion River

The Mispillion River flows through central Delaware before reaching Delaware Bay. Facts about the Mispillion River:

• It is a popular recreational fishing river, home to bass and perch.
• The Mispillion passes through the town of Milford.
• It flows through the study Cypress Swamp ecosystem.

Major Lakes in Delaware

Some of Delaware's significant lakes include:

• Silver Lake: Located in Rehoboth Beach, known for watersports and fishing.
• Lums Pond State Park: The largest freshwater lake in Delaware, used for boating, fishing, and swimming.
• Tidbury Pond: Located in the Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge, an important ecological site.

Though small, Delaware's rivers and lakes have played an outsized role in its ecology, settlement, and economy throughout history.