Redden

Redden State Forest encompasses over 14,000 acres across 18 tracts in central Sussex County, making it Delaware's largest state forest. With 44 miles of trails popular for hiking, horseback riding, bicycling, and bird watching, Redden offers extensive opportunities for outdoor recreation. The forest includes the historic Lodge at Redden, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and primitive camping facilities at the Headquarters Tract.

The large forested tracts support diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various small game species that draw hunters during appropriate seasons. Songbirds, woodpeckers, and raptors utilize the varied forest habitats. Wetland areas support amphibians and waterfowl. The extensive acreage provides habitat connectivity increasingly rare in developed areas.

Loblolly pine and mixed upland hardwoods are the major timber types. Oak-hickory forests occur on well-drained uplands, while sweetgum, red maple, and other wetland species dominate lower areas. Pine plantations contribute to timber production objectives. The varied forest types provide habitat diversity and demonstrate sustainable forestry practices.

Redden State Forest lies within the Atlantic Coastal Plain, characterized by relatively flat terrain over unconsolidated sediments. Sandy and silty soils derived from ancient marine and river deposits support productive timber growth. Subtle elevation differences influence drainage patterns and forest composition across the forest's many tracts.

The forest experiences a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures reach the upper 80s Fahrenheit, while winter temperatures average in the mid-30s. Annual precipitation of approximately 45 inches supports productive forest growth. The coastal influence moderates temperature extremes.

The Headquarters Tract was acquired in 1936 under Delaware's first State Forester, William S. Taber. The Lodge was built around 1903 for Pennsylvania Railroad executives as a shooting retreat. Lightning struck the Lodge on July 4, 1970, burning the west wing. Reconstruction in 1976 and National Register listing in 1990 recognized the site's historic significance.

Delaware's State Forestry Department began assembling Redden State Forest in 1936 with the purchase of the Headquarters Tract. Subsequent acquisitions expanded the forest to its current 18 tracts totaling over 14,000 acres. The forest is named for the community of Redden where the headquarters is located. Management balances timber production with recreation and wildlife habitat.

Forty-four miles of trails serve hiking, horseback riding, and bicycling through diverse forest landscapes. The historic Lodge at Redden provides a picturesque setting for gatherings and special occasions. Primitive camping is available at the Headquarters Tract. A catch-and-release fishing pond offers angling opportunities. Deer hunting draws many visitors during the season.

Eighteen primitive camping sites at the Headquarters Tract accommodate tent camping with reservations. The Lodge is available for event rentals. The southern regional office at the Headquarters Tract provides information and permits. Located north of Georgetown, the forest's many tracts are accessible via local roads. Off-road vehicles are prohibited.

Sustainable forestry practices balance timber production with wildlife habitat, recreation, and ecological values. Management plans guide harvesting schedules and regeneration activities. Wetland and endangered species protection guides decision-making. The forest demonstrates multiple-use management appropriate for Delaware's coastal plain forests.